Glaucophane: meaning, definitions and examples
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glaucophane
[ ɡlɔːkəˌfeɪn ]
mineralogy
Glaucophane is a blue, dark blue or greenish-blue mineral belonging to the amphibole group. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks formed under high pressure and low temperature conditions. This mineral is often associated with specific geological environments and can provide insights into the conditions during rock formation.
Examples of usage
- The glaucophane present in the metamorphic rock indicates high-pressure conditions.
- Geologists study glaucophane to understand the tectonic processes involved in mountain building.
- Glaucophane can be identified by its distinct color and cleavage properties.
Word origin
The term 'glaucophane' derives from the Greek word 'glaukos', meaning 'blue' or 'bluish-green'. The suffix 'phane' comes from the Greek 'phainesthai', which means 'to show' or 'to appear'. This naming reflects the mineral's typical color, which can range from blue to greenish-blue. Glaucophane was first described in the mid-19th century as mineralogists began to classify and identify numerous minerals based on their chemistry and crystallography. Its occurrence is primarily associated with the metamorphism of basaltic rocks, particularly in subduction zones where oceanic plates are forced downward into the mantle. The study of glaucophane also provides essential insights into the geological conditions of metamorphic rocks.