Pronunciation: [tˈɒma͡ɪt] (IPA) 
The word Thomite is spelled as /ˈθɑːmaɪt/. In phonetic symbols, we see that the "th" sound is represented by the /θ/ symbol, while the long "a" sound is represented by /ɑː/. The ending "-ite" is pronounced as /aɪt/. A Thomite is a member of a Gnostic sect which seeks to identify with Saint Thomas in the Bible. The spelling of this word can be useful in understanding the original Greek and Coptic influences on this religious group.
Thomite is a mineral commonly found in metamorphic rocks, specifically in high-pressure regional metamorphic terrains. It is a rare mineral that belongs to the group of minerals known as silicates, specifically the epidote group. The chemical formula for thomite is Ca0.5(Mg,Fe2+,Fe3+)3(Al,Mg)2(SiO4)3(OH) or sometimes written as Ca2(Fe3+Al2)(Al2SiO4)(Si2O7)(OH), reflecting its complex composition.
Thomite typically occurs in elongated prismatic crystal habits and commonly exhibits a brownish-green color. It possesses a vitreous to subresinous luster and a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, indicating its relative hardness. The mineral has a perfect cleavage in two directions and a brittle tenacity.
Thomite is often associated with other minerals such as garnet, kyanite, staurolite, and amphiboles. Its formation is typically linked to high-pressure regional metamorphism, particularly in rocks derived from mafic igneous protoliths. The mineral is commonly found in eclogite and blueschist facies rocks, which are formed at depths of around 15 to 50 kilometers below the Earth's surface.
Thomite has limited industrial applications due to its rarity and complex composition. It serves as an indicator of high-pressure metamorphism during geological studies and can provide valuable insights into the tectonic history and conditions of the rocks in which it is found.
