Barite, BaSO4 (Barium Sulfate), is easily identified by its heavy weight. Most similar minerals are much lighter. It tends to form well defined flattened crystals. Occasionally it forms large rounded mounds from precipitation of hot, barium-rich springs.

Description: A large brown matrix upon which sits a deposit of barite crystals. Many have very unusual crystal habits, unlike most other barite specimens we have seen, shown in the inset. The colour is a mix between grey and silver giving an overall smoky appearance. A very unusual, great display specimen..

Location: Lahost, Duchcov, Bohemia, Czech Republic.