mineral

Barite (Desert Rose or Cockscomb variety)

Barium Sulfate (BaSO4)

Hardness: 3-3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: typically white, grey, or colorless with brown inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Orthorhombic; Specific gravity: 4.5 (notably heavy for its size)

Hardness: 3-3
Color: typically white, grey, or colorless with brown inclusions
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified February 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins, as well as in sedimentary rocks like limestone or through evaporation in arid environments. It is often found in association with ores of lead and silver.

Uses & applications

Primary source of barium; used in drilling mud for oil and gas wells, as a filler in paints and plastics, and in medical diagnostic imaging (barium swallow).

Geological facts

The name comes from the Greek word 'barys' meaning 'heavy,' referring to its high specific gravity. It is the most common barium-bearing mineral.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its unusual weight (high density), white streak, and bladed crystal habit. Common in desert regions of Oklahoma, Morocco, and Germany.

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Mineral/Rock

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