Dolomite is an anhydrous carbonate mineral composed of calcium magnesium carbonate. It was first discovered in 1792 in northern Italy and was later named after the French mineralogist Déodat de Dolomieu. The most common form of dolomite is a white to tan or greyish color, though other colors such as green, pink and yellow can be seen.
Dolomite is made up of two different types of carbonate structures known as dolomite and ankerite. The magnesium to calcium ratio of these two structures varies depending on the environment in which the limestone was formed. In general, dolomite has more magnesium while ankerite has a greater amount of calcium.
The properties of dolomite are quite varied and can be used for a wide range of applications. Dolomite is often used as a decorative rock in landscaping and home renovation projects due to its attractive appearance and wide variety of colors. It is also strongly resistant to chemical weathering, making it a great choice for outdoor use.
Due to its high calcium content, dolomite is very effective at raising soil pH and adding vital nutrients to clay soils. As a result, dolomite is often used as a soil additive in horticulture and agriculture. On an industrial scale, it is also used to produce glass, paper, stucco and ceramic products.
Dolomite is also an important source of trace elements such as cobalt, chromium, manganese, zinc and lead. These elements are essential for many types of plants and animals and are found in their tissue and bones. Studies have also shown that dolomitic limestone can help reduce nitrate leaching in soil thereby lowering soil pH and improving crop yields.
Although dolomite is a relatively soft mineral with a hardness of 3.5-4.0 on the Mohs scale, it is still used in numerous applications due to its excellent properties. As well as being used as an agricultural and horticultural soil additive, it is highly prized as a decorative stone, particularly when cut into tiles for use in kitchens and bathrooms.
Since its initial discovery in 1792, dolomite has been used for an incredible range of applications. From sculpture to agricultural additives and industrial production, dolomite can be found in almost every corner of the world. With its diverse properties, it is sure to remain a valuable and widely used mineral for many years.
