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Feldspar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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feldspar

[หˆfษ›ldspษ‘หr ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mineral composition

Feldspar is a group of rock-forming minerals that make up about 60% of the Earth's crust. They are characterized by their aluminum silicate structure and are important components of many igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.

Synonyms

feldspathoid, silicate.

Examples of usage

  • Granite is composed mainly of quartz and feldspar.
  • Feldspar group minerals include orthoclase and plagioclase.
  • The presence of feldspar indicates the formation conditions of a rock.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Geology

  • Feldspar makes up about 60% of the Earth's crust, making it one of the most abundant minerals.
  • It is crucial for the formation of igneous and metamorphic rocks, including granite and gneiss.

Art and Industry

  • In ceramics, feldspar is used as a flux to lower the melting point of the materials, helping to create pottery.
  • Feldspar is also used in glass-making, giving glass its durability and smoothness.

Mineralogy

  • Feldspar is categorized into three main types: orthoclase, plagioclase, and microcline, each with distinct properties.
  • It can be identified by its two distinct cleavage planes and is usually light in color, ranging from white to pink.

Cultural References

  • Feldspar's role in geology and mineralogy has made it a popular subject of study in educational institutions worldwide.
  • In the art world, feldspar-infused glazes can create unique textures and colors, admired by artists and collectors alike.

Origin of 'feldspar'

Main points about word origin

  • The name 'feldspar' comes from the German word 'feldspat,' meaning 'field spar,' as it was often found in fields.
  • The suffix 'spar' originally referred to minerals that can cleave, or split, easily.

The term 'feldspar' comes from the German word 'Feldspat', which combines โ€˜Feldโ€™ meaning โ€˜fieldโ€™ and โ€˜Spatโ€™ meaning โ€˜spateโ€™ or โ€˜splat,โ€™ a term used in mineralogy. Initially used in the 18th century, the term referred to the common silicate mineral found in various rocks. Feldspar mining and research accelerated in the 19th century as geologists explored geological formations and the composition of minerals. Its abundance and importance in geology made it a focal point in the study of igneous rocks. In addition to naturally occurring forms, feldspar is also synthesized for use in ceramics and glass due to its unique properties.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,099, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.