Cobalt (II) sulfate heptahydrate appears as a red monoclinic crystal that liquefies at around 100°C and becomes anhydrous at 250°C. It is soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol, and especially soluble in methanol.  In hydrated form, cobalt sulfate is used in the preparation of pigments which are also employed in porcelain and glass. Cobalt (II) sulfate has wide applications in storage batteries, electroplating baths, sympathetic inks, and as additive to soils and animal feeds.