Barite
August 13, 2024
Barite is a mineral composed of barium sulfate (BaSO4), named after the Greek word "baryte," meaning "heavy," due to its high specific gravity of 4.3, which is unusual for a non-metallic mineral. Typically white or colorless, barite is the main source of barium. It belongs to the baryte group, which includes Celestine, anglesite, and anhydrite. Its high specific gravity makes barite useful in various industrial, medical, and manufacturing applications, and it is the principal ore of barium.
Talc (Soapstone)
August 13, 2024
Talc is a hydrous magnesium silicate mineral with the chemical formula Mg3Si4O10(OH)2. While its composition generally follows this formula, slight variations due to substitution can occur. Talc primarily contains magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. It is widely used in powder form because it effectively absorbs moisture and reduces friction. This makes it ideal for keeping the skin dry and preventing rashes, especially in personal care products like baby powder and cosmetics.
Chromite
August 13, 2024
Chromite is an iron chromium oxide mineral with the chemical formula FeCr2O4, belonging to the spinel group of minerals. It can form a solid solution with magnesiochromite (MgCr2O4), where magnesium substitutes for iron in varying amounts. Chromite is an important source of chromium, used in various industrial applications.
Fluorspar (CaF2)
August 13, 2024
Calcium fluoride (CaF2) is a mineral that serves as the main source of fluorine. It forms cubic, isometric crystals and cleavable masses, often colorless and transparent when pure, with a glassy luster. Impurities can cause variations in color, and some varieties exhibit fluorescence. It is commonly found in limestone and dolomites, either in pure veins or alongside lead, silver, or zinc ores.