Barite – Atlantis Institute Crystals Encyclopedia

Origin

Barite (also known as Baryte or Heavy Spar) is a Sulfate mineral of the Barite group and consists of barium sulphate. Other Barite groups include anhydrite, anglesite and celestine.

The stone is formed in a quantity of depositional environments and can be formed through a number of processes, some which include hydrothermal, evaporation and biogenic, among others.

Barite occurs commonly in hot spring deposits, hematite ore, limestones and lead zinc veins. It is also known to be identified with meteorites. It can form in the tabular formation which is referred to as the desert rose.

All crystals belong to a different group according to the basis of the relationships of their axes. There are seven systems and 32 classes of symmetry. Barite crystals belong to the Orthorhombic system.

History

The name derives from the Greek word for heavy, hence the alter name , heavy spar.

When it forms in the tabular it has been likened to a desert rose and native american mythology associated this with Indian Warriors returning in the night to carve the roses. It is said that where they were found in large numbers, was where these warriors had gathered.

Specification

Barite appears in many shapes and colours which can be opaque, and, at some times, transluscent or transparent.

Primary Barytes refer to the first marketable product which includes those found through tabling, flotation, washing, jigging and media separation. These are crude forms and require upgrading to a minimum density or purity.

Most barites are crushed to be used as industrial filler. Some are cut for jewellery yet as the stone is a soft 3-3.5 on the Moh scale; this is in small quantities.

Varieties

Barite is associated, as a group, with:

Celestine
Anglesite
Anhydrite

It is also known as a variety of names which include:

Barytine
Barytite
Schwerspath
Baryte
Heavy Spar
Tiff
Blanc Fixe

Esoteric Attributes

Crystals by their very nature are able to receive and focus energy in different ways. Their molecular structure enables them to be used to amplify and convert energy and hence crystals have been used for centuries to aid healing and transmute energy both in the metaphysical and physical world.

Because each crystal family has different formational backgrounds, each also has different vibrtional frequencies that can be harnesed and used for specific purposes. Each therefore have specific qualities that can be used to help a person heal on the many different levels of their being.

The following is a list of healing attributes associated with Barite crystals.

Mental: Barite crystals are known to produce verbal clarity and aid in the formulation of words. It is also an aid to the strengthening of the memory.

Emotional: The crystal helps to alleviate anxiety and confusion. It also helps to reduce shyness. It aids in the release of trapped feelings and promotes independance and motivation.

Physical: Barite is a strong healer of addiction and the removal of toxins from the body. It strengthens sensitivity to colds and alleviates stomach aches and sore throuts. Barite is also great for improving posture.