Gypsin

Gypsin is a mineral composed of hydrated calcium sulfate, with the chemical formula CaSO4·2H2O. It is commonly found in sedimentary rocks, particularly in evaporite deposits formed by the evaporation of water. The mineral is characterized by its softness, with a Mohs hardness of 1.5 to 2, and its typically white or colorless appearance, though impurities can lead to various shades of gray, yellow, or brown. Gypsin is known for its relatively low density and its tabular or prismatic crystal habit.

The formation of gypsin is closely linked to arid or semi-arid environments where the concentration of dissolved sulfates in water bodies increases significantly. As water evaporates, these minerals precipitate out of solution. Large deposits of gypsin can form extensive layers within geological strata. Its presence is often an indicator of past evaporative conditions.

Gypsin has numerous industrial and commercial applications. It is the primary raw material for the production of plaster of Paris, which is created by heating gypsin to drive off some of its water of hydration. Plaster of Paris is widely used in construction for wall coatings, decorative elements, and casting. It is also utilized in agriculture as a soil conditioner, particularly for improving soil structure and providing calcium and sulfur. In medicine, it is employed for orthopedic casts. The mineral is also found in some types of cement and as a filler in paper and paints.