GROSSULAIRE Meaning and
Definition
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Grossulaire, also known as grossularite, is a gem-quality variety of the calcium-aluminum silicate mineral garnet. It is a member of the garnet group, which includes various distinct minerals that share a similar crystal structure but differ in their chemical composition. Grossulaire gets its name from the Latin word "grossularia," meaning "gooseberry," due to its green color reminiscent of the fruit.
The grossulaire variety of garnet typically occurs in various shades of green, but can also appear in brown, yellow, pink, or even colorless forms. Its coloration is caused by the presence of trace amounts of iron and chromium within its crystal lattice. Grossulaires have a vitreous to resinous luster, meaning they display a glossy or slightly waxy appearance when polished.
This type of garnet is often used as a gemstone and is known for its excellent clarity, making it suitable for faceting. It is commonly cut into various shapes, including round, oval, and emerald-cut, to enhance its visual appeal. Grossulaire gemstones can exhibit remarkable brilliance and are commonly found in sizes ranging from small to medium.
In addition to being a sought-after gem, grossulaire has certain industrial applications. Its high refractive index makes it useful in the manufacture of optical lenses, while its hardness and durability allow it to be used as an abrasive material in sandpapers and grinding wheels.
Overall, grossulaire is a fascinating and versatile mineral with both aesthetic and practical uses, making it highly valued in the field of gemology and various industries.
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The name given to the pale gooseberry-green varieties of translucent lime-alumina garnet.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for GROSSULAIRE
- grossulare
- grossular
- frossulaire
- vrossulaire
- brossulaire
- hrossulaire
- yrossulaire
- trossulaire
- geossulaire
- gdossulaire
- gfossulaire
- gtossulaire
- g5ossulaire
- g4ossulaire
- grissulaire
- grkssulaire
- grlssulaire
- grpssulaire
- gr0ssulaire
- gr9ssulaire
Etymology of GROSSULAIRE
The word "grossulaire" comes from the French term "grossulaire", which is derived from the Latin word "grossularia". "Grossularia" refers to the plant known as "Ribes grossularia", which produces a type of fruit called "gooseberries". The term "grossulaire" is used in geology to describe a green variety of garnet that resembles the color of gooseberries, hence the connection to the French term.
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