Rock Identifier
Barite Rose (Barium Sulfate (BaSO4)) — mineral
mineral

Barite Rose

Barium Sulfate (BaSO4)

Hardness of 3-3.5 on the Mohs scale, color typically white, yellowish, or brownish due to iron oxide inclusions, vitreous to pearly luster, tabular crystal habit forming rosette aggregates, specific gravity of 4.5.

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Physical properties

Hardness of 3-3.5 on the Mohs scale, color typically white, yellowish, or brownish due to iron oxide inclusions, vitreous to pearly luster, tabular crystal habit forming rosette aggregates, specific gravity of 4.5.

Formation & geological history

Formed through precipitation from hydrothermal solutions or evaporating marine basins, often found in sedimentary rock formations like sandstones and limestones.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a collector's specimen, in industrial applications as a weighting agent in drilling muds, and in the manufacturing of paints and glass.

Geological facts

Also known as desert rose or baryte rose, these structures form when crystals grow in radiating rosette patterns, often trapping sand grains during growth.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinctive rosette shape and surprisingly heavy feel for its size due to high specific gravity. Found globally, notably in Oklahoma, USA, and Morocco.