Barite
Image: Strekeisen (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Mineral NameBarite
Chemical FormulaBaSO4
Mohs Hardness3
Crystal Systemorthorhombic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
CleavagePerfect on {001}, good on {210} and {010}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity4.5
Colorswhite, yellow, gray, blue, green, brown, red
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityHope Valley, near Castleton, Derbyshire
Mineral GroupSulfates
Usesdrilling mud, pigments, medical imaging, filler
Associated Mineralsgalena, sphalerite, fluorite, calcite, quartz
Raritycommon
Description
This image displays a thin section of barite under crossed nicols, showing intricate radial growths with vibrant interference colors of pink, yellow, blue, and green, highlighting its optical properties.
Geological Context
Barite typically forms in hydrothermal veins, often associated with lead-zinc deposits, as indicated by its collection from a mineral vein. It can also occur in sedimentary environments as concretions or bedded deposits.
