Indium is rarely found uncombined in nature and is typically found in zinc, iron, lead and copper ores. It is the 61st most common element in the Earth's crust and around three times more abundant than silver or mercury, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

Where is indium most commonly found?

Indium is relatively rare with its abundance in the Earth's crust estimated to be around 0.1 parts per million. Hence it is slightly more abundant than silver or mercury. Indium is generally found in ores of zinc and is produced mainly from residues generated during zinc ore processing.

What rock is indium found in?

Indium was discovered in 1863 by Ferdinand Reich and Hieronymous Theodor Richter by spectroscopic methods. They named it for the indigo blue line in its spectrum. Indium was isolated the next year. Indium is a minor component in zinc sulfide ores and is produced as a byproduct of zinc refinement.