Corundum is a mineral compound composed mainly of aluminum oxide (Al2O3). It is one of the naturally occurring crystalline forms of aluminum oxide and is known for its hardness and durability. Corundum is derived from the Sanskrit word "kuruvinda" and is often referred to by its gemstone varieties, such as ruby and sapphire.
In its purest form, corundum is colorless, but it acquires various colors due to impurities present during its formation. Ruby is the red variety of corundum, while sapphire encompasses all other color varieties including blue, yellow, pink, purple, green, and even colorless. These gemstone varieties of corundum are highly valued and widely used in jewelry.
Corundum is an extremely hard mineral, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale, just below diamond. This exceptional hardness makes it ideal for industrial applications where abrasion and resistance to wear are essential, such as in the production of grinding wheels, sandpaper, and cutting tools.
Corundum is primarily formed in metamorphic rocks under high temperature and pressure conditions. It can also be found in placer deposits, where it is eroded from its original source and accumulates in sediment or river beds. Significant deposits of corundum are found in countries like India, Myanmar (Burma), Sri Lanka, Thailand, Australia, and several African nations.
Overall, corundum is an important mineral in both its gemstone and industrial forms. Its hardness, wide range of colors, and unique properties make it a highly valued and versatile material in various applications, from the exquisite world of jewelry to the tough demands of industrial grinding and cutting.
