Epsomite

MgSO₄·7H₂O

The image shows a specimen of white, delicate, fibrous to acicular Epsomite crystals forming a matted aggregate.

Epsomite Physical Properties

Mohs Hardness

Crystal System

orthorhombic

Luster

vitreous

Streak Color

white

Cleavage

perfect on {010}

Fracture

conchoidal

Specific Gravity

1.67

Colors

white, colorless, pink, greenish

Transparency

transparent

Type Locality

Epsom, Surrey, England

Mineral Group

Sulfates

Uses

medicinal (Epsom salts), fertilizer, industrial

Associated Minerals

gypsum, mirabilite, thenardite, halite

Rarity

uncommon

Geological Context

Epsomite commonly forms as an efflorescence in arid regions, on cave walls, or in mine workings, precipitating from magnesium-rich brines through evaporation.

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