mineral

Barite Rose on Marcasite

Barium Sulfate (BaSO4) on Iron Sulfide (FeS2)

Hardness: 3-3.5 (Barite), 6-6.5 (Marcasite); Color: Cream/Tan (Barite) and Metallic Grey/Bronze (Marcasite); Luster: Vitreous to Pearly; Crystal Structure: Orthorhombic; Specific Gravity: 4.5 (High for a non-metallic mineral).

Hardness: 3-3
Color: Cream/Tan (Barite) and Metallic Grey/Bronze (Marcasite)
Luster: Vitreous to Pearly

Identified March 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes where mineral-rich water precipitates minerals into cavities or sedimentary host rocks. Common in low-temperature hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits like limestone. This specific combination is often found in the Tri-State Mining District (USA).

Uses & applications

Aesthetics and mineral collecting. Barite itself is used industrially as a weighting agent in drilling mud, while Marcasite is sometimes used in jewelry, though it is brittle.

Geological facts

This specimen features 'Desert Rose' or bladed Barite growth. While Marcasite has the same chemical formula as Pyrite, it has a different crystal structure, making it rarer and more prone to 'pyrite decay' if exposed to high humidity.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the 'heavy' feel (high specific gravity of Barite) and the cockscomb or bladed crystal habit. Common locations include Oklahoma, Kansas, and Missouri (USA), as well as Northern Africa and parts of Europe.

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