Mineral Species: Barite

Chemical Formula: BaSO4

Chemical Name: Barium Sulfate

Mineral Class: Sulfate

Mineral Notes:  Barite 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: Upright, pyramidal crystals of white-grey Barite on a mixed matrix of Barite and Calcite. The crystals are all terminated, partially transparent and show very high luster. An attractive display specimen from a rare location.

Location: Old Rake Vein, Swaledale, Yorkshire, England.