Dolomite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameDolomite
Chemical FormulaCaMg(CO3)2
Mohs Hardness3.5
Crystal Systemtrigonal
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
CleavagePerfect rhombohedral on {1011}
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.85
Colorswhite, pink, gray, brown, green, black
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityAzcárate Quarry, Eugui, Esteribar, Navarre, Spain
Mineral GroupCarbonates
Usesconstruction material, soil conditioner, magnesium source, ornamental stone, flux in metallurgy
Associated Mineralscalcite, quartz, barite, fluorite, galena, sphalerite
Raritycommon
Description
This image displays a cluster of well-formed, translucent, white to pale pink rhombohedral dolomite crystals, exhibiting distinct cleavage faces and a vitreous luster.
Geological Context
Dolomite is a common rock-forming mineral that primarily forms in sedimentary environments, often through the diagenetic alteration of limestone (dolomitization) or as a primary precipitate in hypersaline conditions. It is the main component of the sedimentary rock dolostone.
