3.3" Celestine (Celestite) Crystals on Sulfur - Italy

The chemical composition of this vibrant mineral is S8, eight sulfur atoms bonded together to form a sulfur molecule. The crystal structures are typically tabular or blocky dipyramids that form in sedimentary rock.

One note on handling: sulfur crystals can crack when exposed to rapid changes in temperature.

Celestite (or celestine) is a mineral consisting of strontium sulfate (SrSO4). It tends to form attractive, well-shaped crystals that are often found inside of geodes. One of the main sources of celestine is the deposits on the northwestern coast of Madagascar. However, it is found in a wide variety of other locations and formations.

The world's largest known geode is 35 feet (10.7 m) in diameter at its widest point with celestine crystals reaching 3 feet wide, and is located near the village of Put-in-Bay, Ohio. The geode has been converted into a viewing cave now referred to as Crystal Cave.