Mineral Species: Barytocelestite

Chemical Formula: (Sr, Ba)SO4

Chemical Name: Strontium Barium Sulphate

Mineral Class: Sulphates

Mineral Notes: Barytocelestite is closely related to Celestite (Celestine). It forms a solid solution series with the latter and differs by contianing a higher proportion of Barium. The Barium-only end member is Barite. The mineral often forms dense banded aggregates, often containing inclusions of Galena.

Description: A very unusual, and characterisitc, specimen of Barytocelestite from a classic location. The mineral is present as a heavy mass of brightly coloured and banded material. The colour is particulalry striking, making this a very attractive display specimen.

Location: Hampstead Farm Quarry, Chipping Sodbury, Gloucestershire, England