Mineral 1.0: S

Mineral 1.0

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SulfateSelenite

CaSO₄ - ₂H₂O
Other names/forms:
Gypsum

Most distinguishing features:
Single large crystals of gypsum, typified by hardness and transparency.
Industrial/economical uses:
Used in gypsum wallboard.

CarbonateSiderite

FeCO₃

Most distinguishing features:
Identified by colour and hardness.
Industrial/economical uses:
Sometimes used as an iron ore. Also used in pigments where a red or brown colour is desirable.

SulfideSphalerite

ZnS

Most distinguishing features:
Low specific gravity distinguishes it from galena, as does colour. Lustre also indicative.
Industrial/economical uses:
Main ore of which zinc is extracted.

SilicateStaurolite

Fe₂Al₉O₆(SiO₄)₄(O,OH)₂

Most distinguishing features:
The "staurolite cross" and colour are indicative.
Industrial/economical uses:
Used as an abrasive due to its high hardness.

SulfideStibnite

Sb₂S₃

Most distinguishing features:
Colour and small subhedral crystals are indicators. Also rather soft.
Industrial/economical uses:
Important source of antimony (Sb)