Dolomite

Dolomite is a calcium magnesium carbonate mineral which has many characteristics similar to calcite.  In places where access to limestone is not available or more costly, dolomites are used in its place for the basic materials from which most building stone and a significant percentage of crushed stone are produced.

Type

Rock

Mineral Classification

Carbonate

Chemical Formula

CaCO3•MgCO3

Streak

White

Mohs Hardness

3.5-4

Crystal System

Trigonal

Color

White to gray to pink

Luster

vitreous to pearly

Fracture

conchoidal

Description

Dolomite is a calcium magnesium carbonate mineral which has many characteristics similar to calcite.  In places where access to limestone is not available or more costly, dolomites are used in its place for the basic materials from which most building stone and a significant percentage of crushed stone are produced.