mineral
Barite (Desert Diamond)
Barite (Barium Sulfate, BaSO4)
Hardness: 3-3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow, honey, or creamy white; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 4.5 (notably heavy for its size).
- Hardness
- 3-3
- Color
- Pale yellow, honey, or creamy white
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale yellow, honey, or creamy white; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 4.5 (notably heavy for its size).
Formation & geological history
Formed through hydrothermal processes or as a precipitate in sedimentary rocks. Often occurs in lead-zinc veins or as nodules in limestone and clay. Geological age varies greatly from Paleozoic to Cenozoic.
Uses & applications
A primary source of barium. Used in drilling mud for oil and gas wells, as a filler in paints and plastics, and in radiology (barium meals). High-quality crystals are used as collector specimens.
Geological facts
Despite its non-metallic appearance, it is remarkably dense due to the presence of barium, giving it the nickname 'Heavy Spar'. It is chemically inert and non-toxic, facilitating its use in medical imaging.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its unusually high weight for a small stone and its relatively low hardness (can be scratched by a copper coin). Commonly found in the UK, USA (Oklahoma/Missouri), and Morocco.
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