Pyreneite is a mineral that belongs to the pyroxene group. Its chemical formula is Ca2NaMg4Fe3+Si8O22(OH)2 and it is named after the Pyrenees Mountains in Europe. The pronunciation of Pyreneite is /pɪˈrɛnaɪt/ (pih-reh-nyt), where the stressed syllable is "re" and "na" is pronounced with a short "a" sound as in "cat." The "-ite" suffix indicates that it is a mineral. Pyreneite is a rare mineral and is usually found in metamorphic rocks.
Pyreneite is a term used to describe a type of igneous rock that is predominantly composed of pyroxene and plagioclase feldspar. It is classified as a subtype of gabbro, a coarse-grained, dark-colored rock formed from slowly cooling magma deep within the Earth's crust. Pyreneite typically exhibits a granular texture, with interlocking crystals that are visible to the naked eye.
The pyroxene minerals found in pyreneite are usually clinopyroxenes such as augite or pigeonite. These minerals are characterized by their dark color and prismatic shape. Plagioclase feldspar, on the other hand, is typically white to gray in color and may be zoned, meaning it has distinctive color bands or patterns.
Pyreneite is commonly associated with mafic intrusions, which are large bodies of magma that solidify within the Earth's crust. It is often found in environments where the magma has a relatively low silica content. The rock can also contain other minerals such as olivine, magnetite, or ilmenite.
Due to its composition, pyreneite is often confused with other dark-colored igneous rocks, such as basalt or diorite. However, its distinctive combination of pyroxene and plagioclase feldspar minerals allows for its differentiation. Pyreneite is named after the Pyrenees mountain range, where it was first identified and extensively studied.
In summary, pyreneite is a type of coarse-grained igneous rock that consists mainly of pyroxene and plagioclase feldspar minerals. It is known for its granular texture and is commonly found in mafic intrusions.
A black or greyish-black variety of iron-lime garnet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Pyreneite" derives from the term "Pyrenees", which is a mountain range situated between Spain and France. The Pyrenees have a complex geology, and "Pyreneite" refers to the rocks and minerals found in this region. The word combines "Pyrenees" with the suffix "-ite", commonly used in geology to indicate a mineral or rock type. Therefore, "Pyreneite" refers to minerals or rocks originating or specific to the Pyrenees mountain range.