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Dolomite

A species of Dolomite Group, Also known as Magnesio-Calcite, Miemite, Pearl Spar, Ridolphite, Rhombohedral Carbonate, Bitter Spar

Dolomite, also known as Dolostone, is not to be confused with the mineral of the same name; it is merely a sedimentary carbonate rock that contains this mineral. It is said to resemble limestone and was not distinguished from the former until 1778. It is a common reservoir material for oil and natural gas.

Hardness:

3.5 - 4

Density:

2.84 - 2.86 g/cm³

General Info About Dolomite

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Physical Properties of Dolomite

Luster

Pearly, Vitreous, Resinous, Waxy, Sub-vitreous

Diaphaneity

Transparent to translucent

Colors

Colourless, white, gray, reddish-white, brownish-white, pink, colourless in transmitted light

Magnetism

Non-magnetic

Tenacity

Brittle

Cleavage

Perfect

Fracture

Subconchoidal

Streak

White

Crystal System

Trigonal

Hardness

3.5 - 4 , Soft

Density

2.84 - 2.86 g/cm³, Normal Weight

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Chemical Properties of Dolomite

Chemical Classification

Carbonates

Formula

CaMg(CO₃)₂

Elements listed

C, Ca, Mg, O

Common Impurities

Fe, Mn, Co, Pb, Zn

Optical Properties of Dolomite

Refractive Index

1.498-1.681

Birefringence

0.179-0.181

Pleochroism

None

Optical Character

Uniaxial negative

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Rarity

Uncommon

Characteristics of Dolomite

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Cultural Significance of Dolomite

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Uses of Dolomite

Because of its abundance, hardness, and resistance to acids, dolomite is largely used in construction in the forms of aggregate, blocks, and slabs. It is kiln-fired in the production of cement and calcined to produce lime. Dolomite is also used as a soil conditioner and additive in livestock feed, as an industrial source of magnesia (MgO), and in iron and steel industry.

Etymology of Dolomite

The term dolostone was introduced in 1948 to avoid confusion with the mineral dolomite. The usage of the term dolostone is controversial because the name dolomite was first applied to the rock during the late 18th century and thus has technical precedence. The use of the term dolostone was not recommended by the Glossary of Geology published by the American Geological Institute.

Healing Properties of Dolomite

Dolomite is thought to provide emotional healing and helps to release negative energy. It offers positive energy in return to restore hope and allow one to regain optimism for their life purpose. It is believed to be beneficial for building strength and stamina and is often used to assist in the healing of the body.

Chakras

Root, Sacral, Solar Plexus, Heart, Throat, Third Eye, Crown