mineral
Barite
Barium sulfate (BaSO4)
Hardness 3-3.5 on the Mohs scale, typically white or colorless, can be tinted by impurities. It has a vitreous to pearly luster. Its specific gravity is quite high (4.5), making it notably heavy for a non-metallic mineral.
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Physical properties
Hardness 3-3.5 on the Mohs scale, typically white or colorless, can be tinted by impurities. It has a vitreous to pearly luster. Its specific gravity is quite high (4.5), making it notably heavy for a non-metallic mineral.
Formation & geological history
Forms in a variety of environments, commonly in hydrothermal veins, as well as in sedimentary deposits involving limestone and dolostone.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a weighting agent in oil well drilling fluids. Also used in the manufacture of paint, paper, and barium chemicals.
Geological facts
Its name comes from the Greek word 'barys', meaning 'heavy', due to its unusually high specific gravity.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified by its noticeably high density, relatively low hardness, and its crystal habit. Found worldwide.
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