Leucite is a mineral with the chemical composition KAlSi2O6. The IPA phonetic transcription of this word is /ˈluːsaɪt/. The word is spelled with a "leu" at the beginning, which comes from the Greek word λευκός (leukós) meaning "white", due to the mineral's typically white or gray color. The "cite" at the end comes from the Greek word κοινός (koinós) meaning "common". Overall, the spelling of "leucite" accurately reflects the word's Greek roots and its nature as a common mineral.
Leucite is a mineral compound that belongs to the feldspathoid group, which is a group of minerals that are chemically similar to feldspars but have lower silica content. It is a tectosilicate mineral composed mainly of potassium, aluminum, and silicon. The chemical formula for leucite is KAlSi2O6.
Leucite is commonly found in volcanic rocks and is often associated with other minerals such as nepheline and feldspar. It typically forms in the late stages of crystallization from a cooling magma or molten rock. It often occurs as well-formed crystals, which are usually colorless or white, but it can also appear in various shades of gray, yellow, or brown.
With a hardness of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, leucite is considered a relatively hard mineral. It has a vitreous to greasy luster and a translucent to opaque appearance. It forms prismatic or tabular crystals with a distinctive square or octagonal shape, and it can also occur in a granular or compact mass.
Leucite has various industrial uses, particularly as a flux in the production of ceramics, glass, and enamel. It is also sometimes used as a gemstone in jewelry, although it is relatively rare in fine quality and size. Some volcanic rocks containing leucite have significant geological and scientific importance, as they provide insights into the Earth's history and processes.
A white stony substance, found among volcanic productions-known as "white spar" and "white garnet".
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "leucite" is derived from the Greek word "leukos", meaning "white". This is because leucite is a white or colorless mineral.