Corundum is a mineral consisting primarily of aluminum oxide (Al2O3), commonly found in metamorphic and igneous rock formations. It is one of the hardest naturally occurring minerals and is renowned for its durability and high abrasive properties.
Corundum typically occurs in various colors, with a translucent to opaque appearance when in its natural state. The most common colors include blue (known as sapphire), red (known as ruby), and colorless forms (known as white sapphire). However, corundum can also occur in pink, yellow, green, orange, and purple shades. The different color variations are due to impurities present in the crystal lattice.
The crystal structure of corundum is trigonal, with a hexagonal prism shape. It has a Mohs hardness of 9, meaning it ranks very high on the hardness scale and is surpassed only by diamond. This exceptional hardness makes corundum a highly valued material in industrial applications, particularly as an abrasive in grinding and cutting tools.
In addition to its industrial uses, corundum is highly sought after as a gemstone due to its brilliance, durability, and vibrant colors. Gem-quality corundum, such as sapphires and rubies, is treasured for its use in jewelry and is commonly cut into various shapes and sizes to enhance its beauty.
Overall, corundum is a hard, crystalline mineral with various colors, known for its exceptional durability and high abrasive properties, making it valuable in both industrial and gemstone applications.
