Langbeinite

langbeinite

carnallite

halite

sylvite

Images

Formula: K₂Mg₂(SO₄)₃
Anhydrous sulphate, langbeinite group
Crystal System: Isometric
Specific gravity: 2.83 measured, 2.77 calculated
Hardness: 3½ to 4
Streak: White
Colour: Colourless, white, pale tinges, colourless in transmitted light
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water
Melting Point: 930^o
Environments

Evaporite deposits
Fumeroles

Langbeinite is a principal ore of potash, mined from marine salt deposits. Associated minerals include carnallite, halite and sylvite (HOM). It may be pseudomorphously replaced by kainite (Dana).

Localities

The type locality is Wilhelmshall, Halberstadt, Harz, Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.

In the Carlsbad Potash District, New Mexico, USA, langbeinite is abundant in salt beds up to 2 m thick, which contain up to 90% langbeinite, associated with halite and sylvite (Dana).

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