mineral
Celestine (Celestite)
Celestine (Strontium Sulfate, SrSO4)
Hardness: 3-3.5 (Mohs); Color: Pale blue to colorless; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 3.9-4.0
- Hardness
- 3-3
- Color
- Pale blue to colorless
- Luster
- Vitreous to pearly
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3-3.5 (Mohs); Color: Pale blue to colorless; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 3.9-4.0
Formation & geological history
Formed in sedimentary rocks como geode fillings or replacement crystals; commonly associated with gypsum, anhydrite, and halite. Most prominent specimens are from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods.
Uses & applications
Primary source of strontium for fireworks (red color) and metal alloys; widely used in crystal healing and geological mineral collections.
Geological facts
The name is derived from the Latin 'caelestis', meaning celestial, referring to its sky-blue color. The largest celestine geode in the world is 35 feet deep and located in Ohio.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its pale blue hue, high density for its size, and brittle crystals. Notable locations include Madagascar, Sicily, and the Sylvania region in Ohio.
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