Zinc ore is a type of mineral that is mined for its zinc content. Two common types of zinc ore are sphalerite and smithsonite. Sphalerite is a zinc sulfide mineral with a chemical formula of ZnS, while smithsonite is a zinc carbonate mineral with a chemical formula of ZnCO3. Both minerals are found in sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. They are used in the production of zinc, brass, and other alloys.