Mineral Species: Barite

Chemical Formula: BaSO4

Chemical Name: Barium Sulphate

Mineral Class: Sulphate

Mineral Notes: Barium 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 single crystal of white Barite. The crystal shows several growth zones in the interior. The end termination actually shows the twinning of two crystals, one of which partially emerges from one of the growth zones. The crystal is mostly transparent which makes it display attractively, especially when well illuminated. Unfortunately, because of the transparency and luster it doesn't photograph well, unlike its usual appearance.

Location: Silverband Mine, Cumbria, England.