MANGANBERZELIITE Meaning and
Definition
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Manganberzeliite is a mineral that belongs to the beryl group and is predominantly composed of manganese (Mn), with the chemical formula Mn2+2Be3(SiO4)3. It is a silicate mineral and derives its name from its chemical composition, which includes manganese and beryllium. Manganberzeliite typically forms as small crystals that are often found embedded within other minerals.
This mineral is characterized by its distinct dark green to black color and vitreous luster. It has a high hardness, typically ranging between 7 and 8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively resistant to scratching. Manganberzeliite also possesses a high specific gravity, which indicates its density compared to water.
In terms of its crystal structure, manganberzeliite belongs to the hexagonal crystal system, meaning that it forms with six-sided prismatic crystals. These crystals often occur in aggregates or as radial sprays.
Manganberzeliite is a relatively rare mineral and is typically found in hydrothermal veins associated with manganese and beryllium-rich deposits. It can also occur in pegmatite formations formed from the cooling of highly differentiated magmas. As a mineral, it holds significant scientific interest due to its unique composition and crystal structure.
In summary, manganberzeliite is a dark green to black silicate mineral composed mainly of manganese and beryllium. It forms as small crystals in hydrothermal veins and pegmatites, and its distinct characteristics include a vitreous luster, high hardness, and high specific gravity.
Etymology of MANGANBERZELIITE
The word "manganberzeliite" is a mineral name derived from a combination of two elements: "mangan" and "berzeliite".
The term "mangan" refers to the element manganese (Mn), which is a chemical element with the atomic number 25. The word "mangan" comes from the Latin term "magnes", meaning "magnet". This name was given to the element due to the magnetic properties of some manganese minerals.
The second part of the word, "berzeliite", is named after the Swedish chemist and mineralogist, Adolf Erik Nordenskiöld, Baron of Nils Erik von Nordenskiöld (1832–1901), who went by the name of Berzelius.
