mineral
Celestite
Strontium Sulfate (SrSO4)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 3 - 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue, light blue-grey, white, colorless; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to pearly on cleavage planes; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in two others; Specific gravity: 3.9 - 4.0
- Hardness
- 3 - 3
- Color
- Pale blue, light blue-grey, white, colorless
- Luster
- Vitreous (glassy) to pearly on cleavage planes
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3 - 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pale blue, light blue-grey, white, colorless; Luster: Vitreous (glassy) to pearly on cleavage planes; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Cleavage: Perfect in one direction, good in two others; Specific gravity: 3.9 - 4.0
Formation & geological history
Formed primarily in sedimentary rocks such as limestones and dolostones through the evaporation of ocean waters containing dissolved strontium, or as primary vein deposits in hydrothermal settings.
Uses & applications
Major ore of strontium used in fireworks, flare production, and glass manufacturing for color television cathode-ray tubes. Widely popular among mineral collectors and in metaphysical crystals market.
Geological facts
Celestite gets its name from the Latin word 'coelestis', meaning 'heavenly', referring to its delicate sky-blue color. The finest quality geode specimens typically originate from Madagascar.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its pale blue color, high specific gravity (feels surprisingly heavy for its size), distinct cleavage, and low hardness (scratched easily by a knife or copper coin). Found in Madagascar, USA, Mexico, and Spain.
