What's That Rock?Barite
Also called: baryte, desert rose
A very heavy white or pale blue mineral made of barium sulfate. Its roses (rounded bladed clusters) form in desert sand.
How to identify Barite
- Remarkably heavy for a light-colored stone
- Tabular crystals or bladed rosettes
- Soft: scratched by a knife
Often confused with
Is Barite valuable?
Inexpensive.
Typical retail prices
Collector specimen$10–80each
Typical retail ranges in US dollars, compiled from public dealer and marketplace listings in October 2026. Real prices vary widely with quality, size and origin. This is general information, not an appraisal.
What changes the price
- Form: crystal blades and desert 'roses' with good color are collector items
- Color: blue, golden or clear crystals cost more than plain white
- Condition: undamaged, sharp terminations are worth more
- Heavy but soft, so large pieces are also cheap to find in some regions
Uses
- Drilling mud, paint and medical imaging
- Specimens
Care
Brittle and flaky.
Identifying a stone from a description or a photo is an estimate. Many stones look alike. Ask an expert or a gem lab before you buy, sell or rely on an identification.
Updated October 2026