How Do You Spell ICELAND SPAR?

Pronunciation: [ˈa͡ɪslənd spˈɑː] (IPA)

The word "Iceland Spar" can be spelled out phonetically as /ˈaɪslənd spɑːr/. The first syllable starts with the long "i" sound just like in the word "ice", followed by "sl" which is pronounced as a single consonant sound /sl/. The second syllable contains the "a" sound as in "father" and ends with the "nd" sound. Finally, the word ends with "spar" which is pronounced with the long "a" sound and the single consonant "r" at the end. This is how the word "Iceland Spar" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet.

ICELAND SPAR Meaning and Definition

1. Iceland Spar, also known as Icelandic Spar or optical calcite, is a crystal mineral that belongs to the calcite group. It is a transparent and colorless variety of calcite, possessing unique optical properties. The name "Iceland Spar" is derived from its significant historical association with the country of Iceland, where it was originally discovered in large quantities.

   This mineral is known for its exceptional double-refraction abilities, which means that when light passes through it, it is split into two different beams, resulting in the perception of double images. This property is a direct consequence of the crystal's internal structure and manifests as a fascinating visual effect when viewing objects through a transparent piece of Iceland Spar.

   Typically formed in limestone environments, Iceland Spar is composed of calcium carbonate and crystallizes in the trigonal system, often occurring as rhombohedral or prismatic-shaped crystals. It has a characteristic hardness of 3 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and easily scratched.

   Due to its unique optical properties, Iceland Spar has been utilized in various applications throughout history, including as a polarizing filter in optical instruments, such as microscopes or telescopes, and for the production of specialized lenses. Its stunning visual effects have also made it a popular gemstone for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts, admired for its aesthetic appeal.

   In summary, Iceland Spar is a transparent and colorless variety of calcite known for its remarkable double-refraction properties, making it a distinctive and desirable mineral for scientific, optical, and ornamental purposes.

2. A variety of calcareous spar, remarkable for its transparency and double refraction-the best specimens obtained from Iceland.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for ICELAND SPAR

• uceland spar
• jceland spar
• kceland spar
• oceland spar
• 9celand spar
• 8celand spar
• ixeland spar
• iveland spar
• ifeland spar
• ideland spar
• icwland spar
• icsland spar
• icdland spar
• icrland spar
• ic4land spar
• ic3land spar
• icekand spar
• icepand spar
• iceoand spar

Etymology of ICELAND SPAR

The word "Iceland Spar" has a fascinating etymology. The term "Iceland" refers to the country of Iceland, which is located in the North Atlantic Ocean. Iceland is known for its rugged landscapes, including volcanoes, geysers, and glaciers.

The word "Spar" has roots in the Old English word "spær", which means "lustrous" or "bright". It is related to the Middle Low German word "spēr" and the Old High German word "sparro", which both mean "clear stone" or "crystal".

The specific use of the term "Iceland Spar" dates back to the 17th century when high-quality transparent calcite crystals were discovered in Iceland. These crystals were highly valued for their optical properties. They exhibit a phenomenon called double refraction, where light passing through them splits into two separate rays.

Plural form of ICELAND SPAR is ICELAND SPARS