Anhydrite
ID: 51
Anhydrite
Chemical Formula
CaSO₄
Hardness (Mohs)
3 - 3.5
Crystal System
Orthorhombic
Streak
White
Luster
Vitreous to pearly
Diaphaneity
Transparent to translucent
Color
Colorless, white, and light shades of brown, red, gray, pink, blue, violet
Cleavage
Good forming cubic-shaped cleavage fragments
Density
2.9 - 3
Fun Facts
Anhydrous calcium sulfate. Fracture: Uneven to splintery. Its name literally means "without water," referring to the fact that it's a calcium sulfate mineral that lacks the water molecules found in its common cousin, gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O). Uses: Construction - for making plaster and wallboard; Agriculture - soil treatment.