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orthorhombiccommonSulfates
Anhydrite
CaSO4
This specimen displays blocky, crystalline anhydrite, predominantly white in color, with visible cleavage planes that give it a somewhat pearly sheen.
Anhydrite Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
3Crystal System
orthorhombicLuster
vitreousStreak Color
whiteCleavage
Perfect in three directions at right angles (pinacoidal), forming nearly cubic fragments.Fracture
unevenSpecific Gravity
2.9Colors
white, grayish, bluish, violet, pinkish, brownishTransparency
transparentType Locality
Naica Mine, Chihuahua, MexicoMineral Group
SulfatesUses
industrial, soil conditioner, cement production, source of sulfurAssociated Minerals
gypsum, halite, calcite, celestine, sulfurRarity
commonGeological Context
Anhydrite is an evaporite mineral, commonly forming in sedimentary basins from the dehydration of gypsum or direct precipitation from evaporating seawater or saline brines, often at elevated temperatures. It can also occur in hydrothermal veins.
