Barite
Image: Ivar Leidus (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mineral NameBarite
Chemical FormulaBaSO₄
Mohs Hardness3
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect on {001}, good on {210}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity4.5
Colorspale yellow, colorless, white
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityCerro Warihuyn, Miraflores, Huamalies, Huanuco, Peru
Mineral GroupSulfates
Usesdrilling mud, pigments, filler, medical applications, collector
Associated Mineralsdolomite, galena, sphalerite, fluorite, calcite, quartz
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen features a cluster of large, pale yellow to colorless, translucent barite crystals with a vitreous luster, forming a complex aggregate. The barite rests on a matrix of pinkish-white, botryoidal dolomite.
Geological Context
Barite commonly forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with lead-zinc deposits, and can also occur in sedimentary environments as concretions or bedded deposits. It is frequently found in low-temperature ore veins.
