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Baryte
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Baryte, or barite, (BaSO4) is a mineral consisting of barium sulfate. The baryte group consists of baryte, celestine, anglesite and anhydrite. Baryte itself is generally white or colorless, and is the main source of barium. Baryte and celestine form a solid solution (Ba,Sr)SO4.
Family:
Blazing Baryte belongs to its own family of gemstones
Country Location:
Baryte can be found in a multitude of locations. These include Sweden (Karlsborg, Uppland, Dansland and Varmland regions), Finland (Sodakyla region), Italy (Bologna), Romania, Germany and even in England (Cumbria, Cornwall and Derbyshire)
Rock Type:
Baryte can be found as bladed white masses; in clusters with its crystals growing adjacent to each other; tabular crystals or replacement deposits in sedimentary rocks (formed beneath the earth’s surface). It can also be found in limestone deposited by hot springs
Hardness:
Baryte’s hardness measures at 3- 3.5, making it a fairly soft gemstone; best used in pieces worn infrequently
Popular Cuts:
Baryte can be mostly found using the Step cut, which helps maximize protection against damage; the Mixed cut to display the gemstones brilliance and warm glowing hues and the Polished cut to show the structure of Baryte crystals in concentric bands. Baryte’s perfect cleavage means it is only faceted for collectors and not specific jewellery pieces
Colour:
Baryte’s brilliant colour ranges from colourless, white, yellowish-brown (most common), grey and blue. In daylight, a yellowish-brown tinge is more apparent. In UV light, shades of orange or pink are more apparent. Baryte has the optical property of birefringence, meaning it splits light rays in two (also known as double refraction)
Lustre:
Baryte’s lustre is Vitreous to Pearly
History:
Baryte adopts an interesting history. Its name is taken from the Greek word “bapos”, meaning heavy. This is because being a non-metallic mineral; it has a specific gravity of 4.45. Baryte can also be referred to as “Bologna stone” as specimens were found in the 17th century, by Vincenzo Cascariolo, an Italian alchemist. In 1959, the spelling of Baryte was changed to the more Americanized spelling “Barite”, although, in 1978, this was reversed
Folklore:
Baryte has a fantastic folklore surrounding it. Firstly, it is believed to improve decisiveness, writing mannerisms and muscles. Secondly, it is believed to promote clearer insight, increased patience and the natural flow of energy
Special Care:
Baryte is slightly soluble in water and very soluble in salt and acid solutions; therefore to clean, only use a soft cloth
Extra Info:
Baryte has the physical properties which enable it to be used in the manufacture of paper and paints
