ORTHITE Meaning and
Definition
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Orthite is a rare earth mineral belonging to the group of silicate minerals known as epidotes. It is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks, commonly associated with other minerals such as feldspar and titanite. The mineral was first discovered and named in 1893 by Axel Hamberg, a Swedish geologist. The name “orthite” was derived from the Greek word "orthos," meaning straight, referring to the typical elongated and prismatic crystal habit of this mineral.
Orthite is characterized by its green to brownish-green coloration, although variations in shade can occur depending on impurities present in the crystal structure. It possesses a vitreous to resinous luster and can exhibit a pleochroic phenomenon, wherein the color of the mineral changes when viewed from different angles. Orthite is known to have a relatively high specific gravity, usually ranging between 3.4 to 4.6.
Chemically, orthite is a complex calcium-iron aluminum silicate mineral with the chemical formula (Ce,Ca)(Al,Fe)[Si2O7](SiO4)(OH). It comprises a solid solution series with respect to rare earth elements and may contain variable amounts of cerium, lanthanum, neodymium, yttrium, and other rare earth metals. This makes orthite an important source of rare earth elements, which are widely used in various modern technologies.
In addition to its scientific importance, orthite possesses ornamental value and can be cut and polished into gemstones. However, due to its rarity and limited supply, it is seldom seen in the commercial gemstone market. Nonetheless, orthite remains highly valued by collectors and mineral enthusiasts worldwide for its unique crystal habit, rich color, and association with other rare
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A mineral of a blackish-brown colour, occurring in straight, needle-shaped, or columnar masses in the granites of Scandinavia.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ORTHITE
- irthite
- krthite
- lrthite
- prthite
- 0rthite
- 9rthite
- odthite
- ofthite
- otthite
- o5thite
- o4thite
- orrhite
- orfhite
- orghite
- oryhite
- or6hite
- or5hite
- ortgite
- ortbite
- ortnite
Etymology of ORTHITE
The word "Orthite" is primarily used as a mineral name. It was named after the Scottish mineralogist Sir William Thomas Blanford (1832-1905), who published a detailed description of this mineral in 1874. The name "Orthite" is derived from the Greek word "orthos", meaning "straight" or "upright", referring to the usually well-formed crystals of this mineral.
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