Mineral Species: Strontianite

Chemical Formula: SrCO3

Chemical Name: Strontium Carbonate

Mineral Class: Carbonate

Mineral Notes: Strontianite is a rare carbonate and one of only a handful of strontium minerals. It forms in low-temperature hydrothermal veins in limestone, marl, and chalk, in geodes and concretions. It sometimes occurs in hydrothermal metallic veins and carbonatites. Crystals are rarer than the massive forms, and so are usually very sought-after. Typical specimens have spiky, minute crystals in radiating aggregates or tufts. However, it also forms pseudohexagonal twins similar to Aragonite. The element is often used as a colouring agent of fireworks.   

Description: A superbly crystalline specimen of Strontianite. The crystals, especially in the small cavity in the matrix, have a sharp acicular form. Many are twinned and can be seen under magnification. The mineral has a strong vitrous luster.

Location: Whitesmith Mine, Strontian, Scotland. (Type Location)