Adularia: meaning, definitions and examples
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adularia
[ əˈdjuː.lə.ri.ə ]
mineral context
Adularia is a variety of the mineral feldspar, specifically a potassium aluminum silicate. It is known for its unique crystal structure, often forming in colorless or white formations. This mineral displays a characteristic sheen known as 'adularescence,' which is the shimmering or glowing effect seen on the surface of the crystals.
Synonyms
feldspar, orthoclase
Examples of usage
- The adularia in the jewelry sparkled beautifully.
- Geologists often study adularia in volcanic environments.
- Adularia can be found in metamorphic rocks.
Word origin
The term 'adularia' originates from the late 18th century, derived from the name of the Adula mountain range in Switzerland, where this mineral was first discovered. The mineral was named in reference to the place of its occurrence, emphasizing its unique features and geological significance. Adularia is part of the larger feldspar family, which is one of the Earth's most abundant mineral groups. Its discovery and identification contributed to the broader understanding of mineralogy and the classification of silicate minerals. As research in geology progressed, the properties of adularia were studied in greater detail, leading to insights into its formation process and occurrence in various geological settings.