PYROSMALITE Meaning and
Definition
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Pyrosmalite is a relatively rare mineral that belongs to the pyroxene group. It is known for its brown to black coloration, typically occurring in thin prismatic or fibrous crystal formations. The name "pyrosmalite" is derived from the Greek words "pyr" meaning "fire" and "smallos" which translates to "cloak". This name alludes to the characteristic fire-like appearance and ability of this mineral to enclose or "clothe" other minerals.
Chemically, pyrosmalite is classified as a chain silicate due to its crystal structure comprising linked tetrahedral units. It consists primarily of iron, manganese, magnesium, and aluminum, often with varying amounts of calcium, silicon, and water. Pyrosmalite is typically found in metamorphic mineral assemblages, often associated with other iron-magnesium-rich minerals such as amphiboles and pyroxenes.
In terms of its physical properties, pyrosmalite generally exhibits a submetallic luster with a hardness ranging from 2.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale. Its specific gravity is relatively high, typically around 3.3 to 3.7. Pyrosmalite is also known for its non-uniform fracture and brittle nature.
While being valuable for research and mineralogical studies, pyrosmalite does not possess any industrial applications due to its limited occurrence and lack of significant economic importance. Nevertheless, it remains an intriguing mineral due to its unique crystal structure and distinct visual appearance.
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A mineral of a liver-brown colour, a Swedish ore of iron.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PYROSMALITE
- Pyromalite
- oyrosmalite
- lyrosmalite
- -yrosmalite
- 0yrosmalite
- ptrosmalite
- pgrosmalite
- phrosmalite
- purosmalite
- p7rosmalite
- p6rosmalite
- pyeosmalite
- pydosmalite
- pyfosmalite
- pytosmalite
- py5osmalite
- py4osmalite
- pyrismalite
- pyrksmalite
- pyrlsmalite
Etymology of PYROSMALITE
The word Pyrosmalite derives from the Greek words pyr meaning fire and smalos meaning rough.
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