Rock Identifier
Celestite Geode (Strontium Sulfate (SrSO4)) — mineral
mineral

Celestite Geode

Strontium Sulfate (SrSO4)

Hardness: 3-3.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue, white, colorless, sometimes reddish or greenish; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect in three directions; Specific Gravity: 3.95-3.97

Hardness
3-3
Color
Pale blue, white, colorless, sometimes reddish or greenish
Luster
Vitreous to pearly
Identified More mineral
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Physical properties

Hardness: 3-3.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue, white, colorless, sometimes reddish or greenish; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect in three directions; Specific Gravity: 3.95-3.97

Formation & geological history

Formed in sedimentary environments, commonly in cavities of limestones, dolostones, and evaporite deposits from the precipitation of strontium-rich marine waters.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a specimen for mineral collectors, as an ore of the element strontium (used in fireworks and flares), and in metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Celestite gets its name from the Latin word 'caelestis', meaning celestial, in reference to its delicate sky-blue color. Madagascar is famous for producing some of the largest and most vibrant blue celestite crystal clusters in the world.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its soft blue color, tabular or pyramidal orthorhombic crystal habits, and perfect cleavage. Found worldwide, with major deposits in Madagascar, Italy, the USA, and Mexico.