ALMANDINE Meaning and
Definition
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Almandine is a noun that refers to a type of deep red or purplish-red gemstone, also known as a variety of garnet. It is composed of a silicate mineral called iron aluminum garnet and belongs to the isometric crystal system. Almandine is typically found in metamorphic rocks, such as schist and gneiss, and is characterized by its strong red color, often resembling the shade of pomegranate seeds.
The name "almandine" is derived from the ancient city Alabanda in Asia Minor, where these gemstones were first discovered. Almandine garnets have been mined for centuries and were highly valued by jewelers, particularly during the Middle Ages. They were commonly used in various types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and bracelets.
In terms of physical properties, almandine has a Mohs hardness of 7-7.5, making it suitable for use in jewelry that requires durability. It possesses a vitreous luster and can exhibit a range of transparency from transparent to translucent. The gemstone is often faceted to enhance its brilliance and optical properties.
Beyond its use in jewelry, almandine also finds applications in industrial processes. It is utilized as an abrasive material for sandblasting, waterjet cutting, and grinding due to its hardness and abrasive nature. Almandine garnets are valued for their exceptional hardness, vivid red color, and historical significance, making them sought-after gemstones in both the jewelry and industrial sectors.
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A lapidary's term for the violet or violet-red varieties of spinel, ruby, &c.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ALMANDINE
- zlmandine
- slmandine
- wlmandine
- qlmandine
- akmandine
- apmandine
- aomandine
- alnandine
- alkandine
- aljandine
- almzndine
- almsndine
- almwndine
- almqndine
- almabdine
- almamdine
- almajdine
- almahdine
- almansine
Etymology of ALMANDINE
The word "almandine" originates from the late Middle English word "almaundine". This particular term comes from the Old French word "almandin", which in turn is derived from Medieval Latin "almandina" or "alumatina". The Latin term refers to a type of mineral that was found near the city of Alabanda in Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). The name of the city, Alabanda, was eventually associated with this deep-red variety of garnet, resulting in the word "almandine" being used to describe this specific mineral species.
Similar spelling words for ALMANDINE
- almond,
- allmon,
- almanzar,
- aluminize,
- almond-eyed,
- aluminate,
- aluminise,
- alumina,
- almanac,
- aleman,
- almanza,
- allamanda,
- alimony,
- alanine,
- aliment,
- allman,
- almendarez,
- almandite,
- all-mains,
- allmond,
- alleman,
- allemande,
- aluminium.
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