Geologists use the word “dolomite” to refer to two different things, which can cause some confusion. It can refer to either the mineral or the sedimentary rock (aka “dolostone”). The rock is composed mainly of dolomite mineral, but it is also made up of other substances. Thus, the mineral is a rock-forming one. This article is about the mineral form of dolomite. The dolomite mineral was originally described by, and later named after, Deodat de Dolomieu, who was a french minerologist. Approximately 2% of the earth’s crust is composed of dolomite, combined with calcite and aragonite. The most notable rock beds are found in the midwestern United States, but deposits containing dolomite can be found all over the world. It results from calcite or aragonite rich limestone after a transformation process called diagenesis. Dolomite mineral is a calcium magnesium carbonate found in white, black, gray, brown, green, pink, and even colorless variations. It exhibits three directions of perfect cleavage. It has a hardness of 3.5 to 4, a specific gravity of 2.8 to 2.9, and a vitreous or pearly lustre. It has a trigonal crystal system. It is usually made up of groupings of small rhombohedral crystals with a well known “saddle-like” shape. Dolomite is used in agricultural soil treatments, cement manufacture, and as a construction aggregate and source of magnesia for the pharmaceutical industry. It can also serve as a reservoir rock for oil and gas, making it a target for oil and gas drilling. This is just to name a few uses.
Dolomite is a stone of balance. You might seek it out if you need to bring optimism and love back into your life. It is believed to alleviate negative emotions (such as grief and depression) and encourage calmness and emotional stability, as well as self-realization. It is said to ease acclimation to new environments, promote moderation and a sense of tradition, and encourage generosity and kindness. It can be used to align– and stop energy leaks from– the chakras, and stimulate thinking, creativity, and stamina.
Healers use dolomite to stabilize the heart and promote optimal blood circulation, aiding in the oxygenation of lungs and cells. When in contact with the wearer’s skin, it is also said to help keep a healthy balance between calcium and magnesium in the body, and to provide relief from PMS in the female reproductive system, as well as have healing properties for palsies, the skin, and hearing problems. Wearers claim that additional physical benefits include strengthening of muscles, bones, and teeth, and additional assistance to the adrenal glands and urogenital system. Pink dolomite in particular appears to have positive effects for people suffering from insomnia. After consulting with your physician, try using dolomite mineral as a dietary supplement, if you need to up your calcium intake. The amount of calcium present in a quart of milk can be substituted with only one teaspoon of powdered dolomite! This is an especially valuable tip for those who suffer from lactose intolerance.