mineral

Barite

Barium Sulfate (BaSO4)

Hardness: 3-3.5 on Mohs scale. Color: can be colorless, white, light shades of blue, yellow, or grey; the specimen shown has reddish-brown inclusions likely due to iron oxide. Luster: vitreous to pearly. Crystal structure: Orthorhombic. Cleavage: Perfect.…

Hardness: 3-3
Luster: vitreous to pearly

Identified March 24, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes in vein deposits, as well as in sedimentary environments such as marine deposits or as a replacement in limestone and dolostone. Common in lead-zinc ore vein systems.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a weighting agent in drilling mud for oil and gas wells. Also used in the manufacturing of paints, rubber, and as a contrast agent for medical X-rays ('Barium swallow'). High-quality cabinet specimens are sought after by collectors.

Geological facts

Barite's name is derived from the Greek word 'barys', meaning 'heavy', referencing its high specific gravity. It is chemically inert and non-toxic, despite containing the heavy metal barium.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its unusual weight (density) compared to its size and its relatively low hardness. Collectors look for well-defined 'bladed' crystal habits. Common locations include Morocco (where reddish bladed varieties like the one pictured are frequently mined), China, USA (Oklahoma/Nevada), and England.