MAGNESIOSTAUROLITE Meaning and
Definition
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Magnesiostaurolite is a mineral that belongs to the staurolite group. It is a silicate mineral that typically occurs in metamorphic rocks, particularly in high-pressure rocks at low temperatures. The name magnesiostaurolite is derived from the presence of magnesium as well as its close resemblance to staurolite.
Magnesiostaurolite is characterized by its prismatic or bladed crystal habit. It commonly forms elongated, columnar crystals that are often striated. Its color can vary, but it is typically a yellowish-brown to brown color, sometimes with a reddish tint. It has a resinous to vitreous luster and a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively hard.
The composition of magnesiostaurolite contains aluminum, iron, magnesium, and silicon, along with traces of other elements. Its chemical formula is usually represented as (Mg,Fe2+)2Al3(AlSi3O10)(OH)2. This composition gives it its distinctive crystal structure and physical properties.
Magnesiostaurolite is commonly found in association with other minerals such as chlorite, quartz, biotite, and muscovite. Its occurrence is often indicative of a specific set of geological conditions, including medium to high-grade metamorphism. It is also found in schists, gneisses, and other types of metamorphic rocks, especially those formed under regional metamorphic conditions.
In summary, magnesiostaurolite is a silicate mineral that forms prismatic, brownish crystals. It is characterized by its aluminum, iron, and magnesium composition, and it is often associated with other minerals in metamorphic rocks.
Etymology of MAGNESIOSTAUROLITE
The word "magnesiostaurolite" is derived from the combination of two different terms: "magnesio-" and "staurolite".
1. Magnesio-: The prefix "magnesio-" refers to the element magnesium (Mg), which is a chemical element with the atomic number 12 on the periodic table. This prefix is added to indicate that the staurolite mineral in question contains magnesium as a significant component.
2. Staurolite: The term "staurolite" comes from the Greek words "stauros" meaning "cross" and "lithos" meaning "stone". This is in reference to the characteristic cross-shaped twinning habit that staurolite crystals often exhibit. Staurolite is a mineral that typically occurs as reddish-brown prismatic crystals.
