Spherical Gypsum Mineral Specimen

Spherical Gypsum from Guizhou, China

A Rare Geological Wonder from China

Description

Unique spherical gypsum formations from Guizhou Province, China. These remarkable specimens feature naturally formed, perfectly rounded gypsum balls, showcasing one of nature's most fascinating mineralogical phenomena.

Origin: Guizhou, China

Composition: Gypsum ($CaSO_4·2H_2O$)

Crystal System: Monoclinic.

Geological Formation

These spherical formations developed in limestone caves through a unique process:

• Formed by evaporation of calcium sulfate-rich solutions
• Layer by layer crystallization
• Shaped by consistent water flow and cave conditions
• Extremely slow growth process over thousands of years

Physical Characteristics

• Material: Pure Gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O)
• Color: Creamy white to light gray
• Shape: Perfectly spherical
• Surface: Smooth to slightly textured
• Size Range: Various sizes available

Origins

• Location: Guizhou Province, China
• Environment: Limestone cave formations
• Age: Late Pleistocene to Holocene

Collection Value

• Increasingly rare due to limited availability
• Highly sought after by mineral collectors
• Each specimen is unique in size and formation pattern
• Notable for their perfect spherical shape

Uses

Gypsum in general is used for making plaster, fertilizer, and as an additive in cement. While the spherical form might be of interest to collectors, its use may overlap with general gypsum.

Care Instructions

• Keep in a dry environment
• Avoid direct water contact
• Handle with care as gypsum is relatively soft
• Store at room temperature