RIEBECKITE Meaning and
Definition
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Riebeckite is a mineral belonging to the amphibole group, which is characterized by its bluish-black to black color and elongated, prismatic crystal habit. It is a sodium-rich mineral, with the chemical formula (Na2Fe2+3Fe3+2Si8O22)(OH)2.
The name "riebeckite" was given in honor of Emil Riebeck, a 19th-century German geologist who made significant contributions to the field. Riebeckite is commonly found in igneous rocks, particularly in alkaline rocks such as granites and syenites. It occurs as an integral component of many metamorphic and hydrothermal mineral assemblages.
Physically, riebeckite crystals possess a high degree of cleavage and display unique prismatic habit, which aids in its identification. The mineral exhibits a vitreous to silky luster and a dark blue- to black-colored streak. Its specific gravity ranges from 3 to 3.5, indicating a relatively high density. Additionally, riebeckite has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, making it a somewhat durable mineral.
Riebeckite is known for its asbestos-like fibrous structure. In its fibrous form, it is commonly referred to as "crocidolite," which is a significant concern due to its potential health hazards if inhaled. Crocidolite asbestos fibers are associated with severe respiratory and lung-related diseases, including mesothelioma.
In terms of its uses, riebeckite is primarily significant as a collector's mineral and a component in various industrial materials such as ceramics and construction materials. However, due to its fibrous nature and associated health risks, riebeckite is now predominantly studied and
Common Misspellings for RIEBECKITE
- eiebeckite
- diebeckite
- fiebeckite
- tiebeckite
- 5iebeckite
- 4iebeckite
- ruebeckite
- rjebeckite
- rkebeckite
- roebeckite
- r9ebeckite
- r8ebeckite
- riwbeckite
- risbeckite
- ridbeckite
- rirbeckite
- ri4beckite
- ri3beckite
- rieveckite
- rieneckite
Etymology of RIEBECKITE
The word "riebeckite" is derived from the name of the German geologist Emil Riebeck. Riebeckite is a mineral of the amphibole group, and it was named in honor of Riebeck for his contributions to the field of geology. The term was first used in 1888 by the Swedish mineralogist Axel Hamberg, who discovered the mineral in South Africa and named it after Riebeck.
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