INDIGOLITE Meaning and
Definition
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Indigolite is a noun that refers to a rare blue mineral consisting of hydrated sodium aluminum silicate. The term derives from the Latin word "indigo," indicating its blue color, and the suffix "-lite," which signifies it is a type of mineral.
Indigolite is commonly found as slender, elongated prismatic crystals that have a vitreous luster. The mineral belongs to the cyclosilicate group and has a chemical formula of NaAl(Si2O6)(OH)2. Its crystalline structure is monoclinic, and it typically exhibits perfect cleavage.
Although indigolite is classified as a gemstone, it is not usually used as a gem due to its scarcity. It is primarily valued by mineral collectors and enthusiasts. The blue color of indigolite can vary in intensity, ranging from light to deep, vivid shades, comparable to the color of the dye indigo, hence its name.
Geologically, indigolite is associated with pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks. These rocks form in the late stages of magma crystallization and often contain a rich variety of minerals, including indigolite. Commercially significant deposits of indigolite are relatively uncommon, making it a sought-after mineral.
Overall, indigolite is a striking and visually captivating mineral known for its beautiful and distinct blue hue. Its scarcity and vivid coloration contribute to its significance among collectors and enthusiasts in the world of minerals and gemstones.
Common Misspellings for INDIGOLITE
- undigolite
- jndigolite
- kndigolite
- ondigolite
- 9ndigolite
- 8ndigolite
- ibdigolite
- imdigolite
- ijdigolite
- ihdigolite
- insigolite
- inxigolite
- incigolite
- infigolite
- inrigolite
- ineigolite
- indugolite
- indjgolite
- indkgolite
- indogolite
Etymology of INDIGOLITE
The word "indigolite" comes from the combination of two terms: "indigo" and "-lite".
The term "indigo" refers to a deep blue color derived from the plant Indigofera tinctoria. This plant has been historically used to produce a natural blue dye, which was highly valued and widely used in various cultures.
The suffix "-lite" is commonly used in geology and mineralogy to denote a type of mineral. It is derived from the Greek word "lithos", meaning "stone". The suffix is generally used to indicate a mineral that shares certain characteristics or composition with the respective root word.
Therefore, "indigolite" refers to a mineral that exhibits a deep blue color, resembling the shade of indigo.
