PYROSTILPNITE Meaning and
Definition
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Pyrostilpnite is a rare and valuable mineral that belongs to the group of silver sulfarsenides. Chemically, it is composed of silver (Ag), arsenic (As), and sulfur (S), with the chemical formula Ag3AsS3. The name "pyrostilpnite" is derived from the Greek words "pyr" meaning fire and "stilpnos" meaning shining. It refers to the mineral's characteristic shiny appearance and its ability to burn with a bright flame.
Pyrostilpnite typically occurs as elongated prismatic crystals or granular masses with a brilliant metallic luster, which can range from silver-white to pale yellow or gray. It is often found in hydrothermal veins associated with other silver-bearing minerals like proustite and pyrargyrite. Due to its scarcity and attractive aesthetics, pyrostilpnite has become a coveted collector's mineral.
The physical properties of pyrostilpnite include a hardness of 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale, a high density between 5.8-5.9 g/cm³, and perfect cleavage in one direction. It is also known for its impressive fusibility, as it melts easily and burns with a blue and green flame, giving off an odor of garlic due to the presence of arsenic.
Pyrostilpnite has been historically used in jewelry and ornamental pieces, as well as for its silver content in various industrial applications. However, its rarity and the potential toxicity associated with the arsenic component limit its widespread commercial use. Nonetheless, pyrostilpnite remains highly sought after by mineral collectors and enthusiasts due to its striking appearance and unique combustion.
Common Misspellings for PYROSTILPNITE
- oyrostilpnite
- lyrostilpnite
- 0yrostilpnite
- ptrostilpnite
- pgrostilpnite
- phrostilpnite
- purostilpnite
- p7rostilpnite
- p6rostilpnite
- pyeostilpnite
- pydostilpnite
- pyfostilpnite
- pytostilpnite
- py5ostilpnite
- py4ostilpnite
- pyristilpnite
- pyrkstilpnite
- pyrlstilpnite
- pyrpstilpnite
- pyr0stilpnite
Etymology of PYROSTILPNITE
The word "pyrostilpnite" derives from Greek roots. "Pyro" (πυρο) means "fire", and "stilpnos" (στίλπνος) means "shining". The suffix "-ite" is commonly used in mineral names to indicate that it is a mineral species.
Therefore, "pyrostilpnite" can be translated to mean "fire-shining mineral". This name refers to the bright luster and the fact that the mineral can exhibit a fiery appearance when exposed to light.
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