Pronunciation: [ɡˈɔ͡ɪɐzˌa͡ɪt] (IPA) 
Goyazite is a mineral named for the Brazilian state of Goiás. The word is spelled with a "y" to reflect the Portuguese spelling of the state's name, which is spelled "Goiás". In terms of pronunciation, the word is spelled phonetically as /ɡoʊjəzaɪt/, with stress on the second syllable. The "g" is pronounced as the voiced velar stop /ɡ/ and the "z" is pronounced as the voiced alveolar fricative /z/.
Goyazite is a relatively rare mineral that is typically found in phosphate-rich environments. It belongs to the apatite group of minerals, which are commonly composed of calcium phosphate. The name goyazite is derived from its original discovery in the Brazilian state of Goiás, where it was first identified.
Chemically, goyazite is a hydrated calcium aluminum phosphate with the chemical formula CaAl3(PO4)2(OH)5·H2O. Its crystal structure typically forms in the orthorhombic system, with transparent to translucent prismatic crystals that are often bladed or platy in shape. These crystals can have a yellow, green, or brown coloration, and they often exhibit a vitreous to pearly luster.
In terms of its physical properties, goyazite has a relatively high hardness on the Mohs scale, ranging from 4.5 to 5.5. It has a specific gravity of around 3.0 to 3.2, indicating its above-average density. Goyazite is also known to be slightly soluble in water.
Although goyazite is not widely used in industrial applications, it holds significant value in the field of mineralogy and collection due to its scarcity and unique crystal structures. It is sought after by collectors who appreciate rare and distinctive mineral specimens. The rarity of goyazite makes it an interesting mineral for scientific study as well, as researchers continue to explore its formation, occurrence, and potential applications.
The word "goyazite" takes its name from the state of Goiás in Brazil, where it was first discovered. Goiás is located in the central part of the country and has a rich mineralogical history. Goyazite is a rare phosphate mineral that was first identified and described in 1868 by French mineralogist Auguste François Gorceix. The mineral was named "goyazite" in honor of the region it was discovered in, reflecting the common practice of naming minerals after the locality in which they were first found.
