Celestite
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Description
A pale blue naturally occuring mineral composed of Strontium sulfate. Celestite is found in sedimentary stone usually in conjunction with Halite and dolomitic limestone. Specimens have been found in England (Bristol), Italy (Sicily), Mexico (Matehuala) and the U.S.(Ohio, California). Celestite is mined as a source of strontium. It is also used in the manufature of ceramics, glass, and fireworks.
Synonyms and Related Terms
celestine; strontium sulfate
Other Properties
Orthorhombic system with tabular crystals. Sometimes fluorescent. Perfect cleavage in one direction; good in two directions.
Fracture = uneven. Luster = vitreous to pearly. Streak = white
| Mohs Hardness | 3.0 - 3.5 |
|---|---|
| Density | 3.9-4.0 |
Additional Information
Mineralogy Database: Celestine
Sources Checked for Data in Record
- Encyclopedia Britannica, http://www.britannica.com Comment: "celestite." Encyclopædia Britannica. 2004. Encyclopædia Britannica Premium Service. 8 Dec. 2004 .
- C.W.Chesterman, K.E.Lowe, Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals, Alfred A. Knopf, New York, 1979
- Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, at http://www.wikipedia.com Comment: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Celestite (Accessed Sept 2, 2005)
- The Merck Index, Martha Windholz (ed.), Merck Research Labs, Rahway NJ, 10th edition, 1983