How Do You Spell MIMETESITE?

Pronunciation: [mˈa͡ɪmtɪsˌa͡ɪt] (IPA)

Mimetesite is a mineral that has a complex phonetic spelling. The word is pronounced as /ˌmɪməˈtiːsaɪt/. It comprises three syllables, with the first syllable "mim" pronounced as "mim" as in "mime", followed by the second syllable "e" pronounced as "e" as in "me", and the third syllable "te" pronounced as "ti" as in "tea" and "site" pronounced as "saɪt" as in "sight." The unique combination of vowels and consonants in the word mimetesite makes it a challenging word to spell, and it may require extra attention to learn and memorize.

MIMETESITE Meaning and Definition

1. Mimetesite is a mineral that belongs to the vanadate family. It is a relatively rare secondary mineral that forms from the oxidation of metallic lead ore in the presence of vanadium. The name "mimetesite" is derived from the Greek word "mimetes," meaning "imitator" or "copier."

   The mineral occurs as transparent to translucent tetragonal prismatic or tabular crystals, which can be found in a variety of colors including yellow, yellow-green, reddish-brown, and colorless. Mimetesite has a vitreous to adamantine luster and a white streak. It exhibits perfect cleavage on a {110} plane and has a Mohs hardness of 3.

   Mimetesite typically forms in the oxidized zone of lead deposits where vanadium is present, often associated with other vanadium-rich minerals such as descloizite and vanadinite. It can occur in fractures and cavities of the host rock or as an alteration product of primary lead minerals. Mimetesite is commonly found in regions rich in lead and vanadium, including Australia, Mexico, the United States, Namibia, and South Africa.

   Due to its rare occurrence and aesthetic appeal, mimetesite is sought after by mineral collectors. Its vibrant colors and gem-like appearance make it a desirable addition to mineral collections. However, due to its relatively low hardness, mimetesite is not suitable for jewelry purposes and is primarily valued for its ornamental and collector value.

2. A mineral, arseniate of lead, occurring in regular six-sided prisms, of a yellowish-brown colour-so called from its resemblance to pyromorphite.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MIMETESITE

• mimetewite

Etymology of MIMETESITE

The word "mimetesite" is derived from the Greek word "mimetes", meaning "imitator" or "mimic". This is combined with the suffix "-ite", commonly used in mineral names to indicate a specific mineral species. Therefore, "mimetesite" can be roughly translated as "imitator mineral". The term was coined due to the mineral's resemblance to other minerals, as well as its tendency to mimic their crystal structures.