Formation
(1) Metasomatic, through magnesium-containing solutions that displace limestone or dolomite under hydrothermal conditions.
(2) Sedimentary-evaporitic, through direct precipitation from magnesium-rich salt solutions or early diagenetic transformation of carbonate slimes in closed basins.
(3) Hydrothermal, as a weathering or transformation product of magnesium-rich ultramafic rocks (serpentinites) through the supply of CO2-containing waters.
