Barite
Image: Twyla Baker (CC0)
Mineral NameBarite
Chemical FormulaBaSO4
Mohs Hardness2.5
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
CleavagePerfect on {001}, good on {210} and {010}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity4.5
Colorswhite, colorless, light blue, yellow, red, brown, grey
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityMissouri, USA
Mineral GroupSulfates
Usesdrilling mud, medical imaging, pigments, filler
Associated Mineralsquartz, iron oxides
Raritycommon
Description
This specimen features light whitish, often tabular or bladed crystals of barite, contrasting with a matrix of fine-grained quartz coated with iron oxide. The overall sample measures 10.5 cm across.
Geological Context
Barite commonly forms in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary deposits (especially marine), and as concretions in sandstones and shales. It is often associated with lead-zinc ore deposits.
