GYROLITE Meaning and
Definition
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Gyrolite is a mineral that belongs to the family of silicates. It is characterized by having a chemical composition primarily composed of calcium, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen. The mineral forms in the orthorhombic crystal system, and its crystals are usually small and prismatic in shape. Gyrolite commonly occurs as aggregates of radiating fibers or as spherical masses with a radial fibrous structure.
In terms of physical properties, gyrolite typically appears as a white to colorless mineral, although it can also exhibit shades of yellow, green, or brown due to impurities. It possesses a vitreous to pearly luster and is translucent to transparent. The mineral has a relatively low hardness, ranging between 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching.
Gyrolite is often found as a secondary mineral in the vesicles and cavities of volcanic rocks, as well as within the fissures and fractures of altered basaltic rocks. It is commonly associated with minerals such as zeolites, calcite, apophyllite, and chalcedony.
Due to its fibrous nature and its ability to absorb water, gyrolite has found various industrial applications. It has been used in the production of various ceramics, cements, and as a filtration media for water and air purification systems. The mineral's unique properties also make it a popular material among collectors and enthusiasts of rare and unusual minerals.
Common Misspellings for GYROLITE
- fyrolite
- vyrolite
- byrolite
- hyrolite
- yyrolite
- tyrolite
- gtrolite
- ggrolite
- ghrolite
- gurolite
- g7rolite
- g6rolite
- gyeolite
- gydolite
- gyfolite
- gytolite
- gy5olite
- gy4olite
- gyrilite
- gyrklite
Etymology of GYROLITE
The word "gyrolite" is derived from the Greek words "gyros", meaning "circle" or "rotation", and "lithos", meaning "stone". The name "gyrolite" was chosen for this mineral due to its characteristic spherical formations, often occurring in radiating or spherical clusters.
