The melting point is 1,495°C, the boiling point 2,900°C.
Cobalt ores are cobaltite (CoAsS) and erythrite (Co₃ (AsO₄) 2, skutterudite and other minerals mined in China, Zambia, Russia and Australia. Formerly also in Saxony.
Cobalt is usually obtained as a byproduct of mining work and enrichment of nickel, silver, lead, copper and iron.
It is added in alloys for use at high temperatures and speeds, and as a colorant for glass and ceramics.