ELBAITE Meaning and
Definition
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Elbaite is a mineral belonging to the tourmaline group, which primarily consists of complex borosilicate crystals. It is considered one of the most colorful gemstones, displaying an array of vibrant hues. The mineral was first described in 1913 and derives its name from the Italian island of Elba, where it was initially discovered.
Elbaite crystals typically form prismatic and columnar structures, often exhibiting vertical striations and vertical or horizontal grooves. It is a cyclosilicate, meaning it possesses rings of silicate tetrahedra in its crystal structure. Elbaite is distinguished by its hardness, ranging from 7 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for jewelry and ornamental purposes.
What sets elbaite apart from other tourmaline varieties is its exceptional diversity in coloration. It can appear in a broad spectrum of vibrant colors, including pink, green, blue, yellow, red, and even colorless. In fact, some elbaite crystals showcase multiple colors in a single specimen due to variations in their chemical composition.
Elbaite is often sought after by collectors and gem enthusiasts due to its attractive appearance and wide color range. It is frequently faceted or cut into polished cabochons to enhance its beauty and maximize its potential as a gemstone. Additionally, elbaite is utilized in scientific research and is appreciated for its electrical properties, making it valuable in various technological applications.
Etymology of ELBAITE
The word "elbaite" is derived from the name of the Italian island Elba, which is where this mineral was first discovered. Elba is known for its rich mineral deposits and was a significant source of various gemstones, including the variety of tourmaline known as elbaite. The suffix "-ite" is commonly used in mineralogy to indicate a mineral species or group, so "elbaite" became the name given to this particular type of tourmaline found on the island of Elba.
