Angelita

Main Deposits

In Spain, it is found in deposits near Madrid. Significant deposits are currently being mined in Peru.

Description and Characteristics

Angelite is a massive, blue variety of anhydrite, an anhydrous calcium sulfate found primarily in evaporite deposits where gypsum has been dehydrated by geological processes. It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system and is characterized by its lilac-blue or opaque sky-blue color, which results from the presence of traces of strontium or from color centers induced by the arrangement of its crystal lattice; it is a mineral that is extremely sensitive to moisture, as prolonged contact with water can cause it to rehydrate and transform back into gypsum.

Chemical Formula	$$CaSO₄$$
Luster	Vitreous to pearly
Streak	White
Fracture	Irregular to splintery
Cleavage	Perfect (in three directions that intersect at 90°, giving it a break in the shape of rectangular blocks)
Hardness	3-3,5 Mohs
Crystal System	Orthorhombic

Did you know...?

Angelite is one of those minerals with new applications among the so-called New Age minerals.

New-Age Properties

Among its properties as a "healing" stone, this mineral can be placed on different chakras: throat, third eye, and crown chakras.
It is associated with the zodiac sign Aquarius.