A method of preparing a surface treated barium sulfate product is disclosed which has improved dispersibility in end use applications such as polymeric formulations. The method includes mixing a silicon-hydride containing polysiloxane, in neat or in aqueous emulsion form, with a quantity of barium sulfate particles and then optionally drying the resultant mixture. The silicon-hydride containing polysiloxane is deposited on and chemically bonded to the surface of the barium sulfate particles.