Witherite
A variety of Aragonite Group
What is Witherite?
Witherite is a tricky mineral to catch because natural processes can easily transform it into Barite. Industrially, this mineral is used to make glass but rarely are specimens found large enough for a collector's piece. In the early 18th century, witherite was used as rat poison and is documented to have caused illness in humans.
Etymology & Origins
In 1789 the eminent German geologist Abraham Gottlob Werner named the mineral witherite in honour of William Withering. The Matthew Boulton mineral collection of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery may contain one of the earliest known specimens of witherite. A label in Boulton's handwriting, records: "No.2 Terra Ponderosa Aerata, given me by Dr. Withering”.
Uses & Applications
Despite its rarity, witherite is the most common ore of barium. This mineral is used in the production of glass, cement, paint, and pottery. Witherite is also used in case-hardening steel and refining sugar. Though it is sometimes collected as a gemstone or used in jewelry, this is uncommon due to its softness.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.529-1.680
- Birefringence
- 0.148
- Pleochroism
- None
- Optical Character
- Biaxial negative
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Witherite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Witherite Localities Map
See where Witherite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Witherite dust is toxic because it contains heavy metals Barium.
- ⚠️The 18th-century naturalist Dr. Leigh recorded its lethal effects after the death of a farmer's wife and child. James Watt Jnr. experimented with the mineral on animals and he recorded the same lethal properties. Until the 18th century farmers at Anglezarke used the mineral as rat poison.
- ⚠️Barium
- ⚠️It's advisable to handle witherite carefully to avoid generating dust and wash hands thoroughly afterward. When cutting or polishing witherite, wear a dust mask to prevent inhaling heavy metal particles. Store witherite in a sealed container in a well-ventilated area, away from children and pets. For those involved in crystal healing, never put it in your mouth.
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Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colourless, white, greyish, light yellow, colourless in transmitted light
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 3 - 3.5
- Density
- 4.29 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous, Resinous
- Crystal System
- Orthorhombic
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- BaCO3
- Elements
- Ba, C, O
Also Known As
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Witherite FAQs
How do I identify Witherite?
Witherite can be identified by its hardness of 3 - 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Colourless color, Vitreous, Resinous luster, Orthorhombic crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Witherite?
Witherite typically appears in Colourless, white, greyish, light yellow, colourless in transmitted light. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Witherite?
Witherite has a hardness of 3 - 3.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
