Celestine ore

Product Description

Celestine (Strontium Sulfate - SrSO₄) MORE THAN %*2  Overview

Celestine, also known as celestite, is a naturally occurring mineral composed mainly of strontium sulfate (SrSO₄). It is the primary source of strontium, a chemical element used in various industrial applications. Celestine typically forms in sedimentary rocks, particularly in limestone and dolomite, as well as in hydrothermal veins. It is known for its pale blue, white, or colorless crystalline appearance, though it can also exhibit shades of gray, brown, or reddish hues due to impurities.

The primary chemical composition of celestine is:

• Strontium (Sr) A metallic element that makes up a significant portion of the mineral.
• Sulfur (S) Present as sulfate (SO₄), forming the mineral's sulfate structure.
• Oxygen (O) Part of the sulfate group, contributing to the mineral's stability.

Celestine may also contain minor impurities such as calcium (Ca), barium (Ba), and iron (Fe), which can influence its color and physical properties.

• Crystal System: Orthorhombic
• Hardness: 3 - 3.5 on the Mohs scale
• Specific Gravity: 3.9 - 4.0
• Luster: Vitreous to pearly
• Transparency: Transparent to translucent
• Cleavage: Perfect in one direction

Celestine is commonly found in:

1. Sedimentary Environments: Often associated with evaporite deposits, where it forms due to the evaporation of seawater containing strontium-rich solutions.
2. Hydrothermal Veins: Forms as a secondary mineral in hydrothermal systems.
3. Geodes and Cavities: Frequently found as crystals lining cavities in limestone and dolomite rocks.

Major deposits of celestine exist in countries such as Iran, Mexico, Spain, Germany, China, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Celestine is primarily used for its strontium content, which has various industrial applications, including:

1. Strontium Production: The main source of strontium compounds used in industries.
2. Fireworks and Pyrotechnics: Strontium salts (such as strontium nitrate and strontium carbonate) derived from celestine produce a bright red flame.
3. Glass and Ceramics: Strontium is used in the production of high-quality glass for television screens, optical lenses, and ceramic glazes.
4. Metallurgy: Strontium is used in refining aluminum alloys and in the production of permanent magnets.
5. Medical Applications: Strontium compounds are used in bone health treatments and radiopharmaceuticals.
6. Oil and Gas Industry: Strontium carbonate derived from celestine is used in drilling fluids.

Celestine is a valuable mineral due to its high strontium content and wide range of applications in industries such as pyrotechnics, metallurgy, ceramics, and medicine. Its natural beauty also makes it a sought-after mineral among collectors. The global demand for strontium ensures that celestine remains an important mineral resource.