Bismuth

[Ger.] One of the metallic elements. It is found in small quantities, in the native state, in Cornwall, France, Germany, Peru, and Siberia, but is chiefly prepared from its ores, which are found in Saxony and Cornwall. Pure bismuth crystallizes more readily than any other metal, and its density decreases under increased pre ure. Fusible alloys containing bismuth have been to some extent used as safety-plugs Blank'et. for steam boilers, in addition to the safety-valve. The compounds of bismuth are also used in medicine and as pigments. Blast=furnace.