CALEDONITE Meaning and
Definition
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Caledonite is a mineral that belongs to the carbonate mineral group. Its chemical composition is mainly composed of copper, lead, and sulfate. The name "Caledonite" is derived from its first discovery in the Caledonia Mine in Leadhills, Scotland. It occurs as secondary mineral formations in oxidized lead and copper deposits.
Caledonite is characterized by its distinctive blue-green color and vitreous to pearly luster. It typically forms in elongated prismatic crystals, often twinned or grouped together. Its crystal structure belongs to the monoclinic system, and its hardness ranges from 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale.
In terms of its physical properties, Caledonite is notable for its high specific gravity and brittleness. It is also known to be slightly soluble in water. When exposed to light, it may turn colorless due to dehydration. Caledonite can be somewhat rare and is often found alongside other secondary minerals such as anglesite, brochantite, and malachite.
Due to its eye-catching color and crystal formations, Caledonite is sometimes sought after by mineral collectors. However, it is not a widely used mineral commercially. Its main significance lies in its role as a mineral curiosity and a subject of study for mineralogists and geologists exploring the phenomenon of secondary mineralization in lead and copper deposits.
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The cupreous sulphato-carbonate of lead, found at the Leadhills in Scotland.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CALEDONITE
- xaledonite
- valedonite
- faledonite
- daledonite
- czledonite
- csledonite
- cwledonite
- cqledonite
- cakedonite
- capedonite
- caoedonite
- calwdonite
- calsdonite
- calddonite
- calrdonite
- cal4donite
- cal3donite
- calesonite
- calexonite
Etymology of CALEDONITE
The word "Caledonite" has its origins in the Latin name for Scotland, which is "Caledonia". The term "Caledonite" is derived from this, as it refers to a rare mineral found in lead and copper deposits. The mineral was first discovered in Scotland, and therefore, it was named after the ancient Roman name for the region.
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