MANAKSITE Meaning and
Definition
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Manaksite is a rare silicate mineral that belongs to the serpentine mineral group. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks, particularly serpentinite. The mineral was first discovered in 1948 in the Manaks, central India, from which its name is derived. Manaksite is characterized by its distinctive green color, which can range from pale green to dark green.
In terms of its chemical composition, manaksite is a magnesium-rich variety of serpentine. Its crystal structure is composed of thin, platy or fibrous layers stacked upon each other, forming a solid lattice. This mineral has a hardness of about 3.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively soft mineral. It also has a characteristic greasy or soapy feel when touched.
Manaksite is prized among mineral collectors due to its unique color and rarity. It is often polished or cut into cabochons to be used as ornamental stones in jewelry. Its green tones, varying from light to dark, make it a desirable gemstone. However, due to its limited occurrence, large gem-quality manaksite specimens are uncommon.
Due to its association with serpentinite, manaksite is also significant in geology and mineralogy studies. Its presence can indicate the specific geological environments and processes through which the rocks it is found in have undergone.
