Enstatite
Enstatite is a common silicate mineral, belonging to the pyroxene group. Its chemical formula is MgSiO3, indicating that it is primarily composed of magnesium, silicon, and oxygen. Here are some detailed points about enstatite:
- Physical Properties: Enstatite typically exhibits a hardness of 5.5 on the Mohs scale, with a specific gravity between 3.2 and 3.9. It can appear in colors ranging from colorless to gray, green, or brown, with a vitreous to dull luster. The crystal system of enstatite is orthorhombic.
- Formation: This mineral forms in igneous rocks, particularly in mafic to ultramafic rocks like peridotite, kimberlite, and dunite. It can also be found in meteorites, where it is often associated with other magnesium-rich silicates.
- Occurrence: Enstatite is widespread in the Earth's mantle, where it can exist in high-pressure forms known as enstatite polymorphs. On the surface, it's found in regions with significant igneous activity. Notable locations include the Adirondack Mountains in New York, USA, and the Bushveld Complex in South Africa.
- History and Naming: The mineral was named after the Greek word "enstates," which means "resister," due to its resistance to weathering. It was first described in 1855 by the German mineralogist Johann Friedrich Ludwig Hausmann.
- Uses: While not widely used as a gemstone due to its lack of color and cleavage, enstatite can be found in some ornamental uses. Its high melting point makes it valuable in the production of refractories and ceramics. Enstatite's properties also make it useful for scientific study, particularly in understanding the conditions of the Earth's mantle.
- Notable Varieties:
- Bronzite: A variety of enstatite with a bronze-like sheen, often used in jewelry.
- Hypersthene: Another name for enstatite when it contains more iron, giving it a darker appearance.
- Scientific Research: Enstatite has been a subject of study for its potential role in the Earth's mantle dynamics. Its presence in meteorites also provides clues about the formation of the solar system.
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