SUESSITE Meaning and
Definition
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Suessite refers to a rare, complex, and naturally occurring mineral that belongs to the supergroup of minerals known as phosphides. It is named after the renowned Austrian mineralogist Hans Ernst Suess. Suessite is primarily composed of iron (Fe), with small amounts of nickel (Ni) and phosphorus (P). It forms as metallic grains or inclusions within other minerals, often found associated with iron-nickel alloys or phosphide minerals.
Suessite has a distinct metallic luster and can exhibit variations in color, ranging from silver-white to a brassy-yellow hue. Its crystal structure is hexagonal, and it typically occurs in the form of tiny grains or micrometric crystals. This mineral exhibits a high density and hardness, making it relatively resistant to scratching and wear.
Due to its rarity and limited occurrence, suessite does not have significant industrial or commercial uses. However, it is of great interest to collectors and researchers in the field of mineralogy due to its unique composition and crystal structure. Its formation and presence within certain mineral assemblages provide valuable information about the geological processes that shape our planet, particularly those involving high-temperature and pressure environments.
In conclusion, suessite can be defined as a rare metallic mineral composed primarily of iron, with nickel and phosphorus as minor components. It forms in distinct metallic grains or crystals, generally found in association with other phosphide minerals or iron-nickel alloys.
Etymology of SUESSITE
The word "suessite" is derived from the surname of the Austrian mineralogist Franz Eduard Suess (1831-1914). Suessite is a mineral named in his honor.
