VANADIUMDRAVITE Meaning and
Definition
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Vanadiumdravite is a rare mineral species that belongs to the tourmaline group. It is a silicate mineral with a complex chemical composition, predominantly containing vanadium and boron. The name "vanadiumdravite" is derived from the presence of vanadium and its relation to the dravite subgroup of tourmaline.
Vanadiumdravite typically occurs as prismatic or columnar crystals, which can be variously colored, including shades of green, brown, and black. It has a vitreous to resinous luster and is characterized by its high specific gravity. In terms of its physical properties, vanadiumdravite has a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively durable and resistant to scratching.
Geologically, vanadiumdravite is commonly found in metamorphic rocks derived from aluminum-rich sediments. It typically forms in the presence of boron and vanadium-rich fluids, which infiltrate the surrounding rocks during the metamorphic process. Vanadiumdravite is often associated with other vanadium-bearing minerals and tourmaline varieties.
Due to its rarity and specific chemical composition, vanadiumdravite is mainly of scientific interest and has limited commercial use. However, it is highly valued by mineral collectors who appreciate its unique color variations and association with the tourmaline family. Vanadiumdravite specimens are sought after for their aesthetic appeal and as notable additions to mineral collections due to their uncommon occurrence and geological significance.
Etymology of VANADIUMDRAVITE
The term "vanadiumdravite" is a mineral name that combines two elements: vanadium and dravite.
The word "vanadium" has its roots in the Latin term "Vanadis", which is the Norse goddess of beauty, love, and fertility. The Swedish chemist Nils Gabriel Sefström discovered vanadium in 1830 while studying iron ores. He named it after the Norse goddess due to the various colorful compounds it forms.
On the other hand, "dravite" refers to a specific type of tourmaline mineral. The name "dravite" originated from the Drave River in the Carinthian Alps of Slovenia, where the mineral was first discovered.
Therefore, "vanadiumdravite" is a combination of the element vanadium and the mineral dravite, indicating a variety of tourmaline containing vanadium as an essential component.
