phlogopite

[ flog-uh-pahyt ]

noun

1. a magnesium-rich mica mineral, usually yellowish-brown, but sometimes reddish-brown.

phlogopite

/ ˈflɒɡəˌpaɪt /

noun

1. a brownish mica consisting of a hydrous silicate of potassium, magnesium, and aluminium, occurring principally in metamorphic limestones and ultrabasic rocks. Formula: KMg 3 AlSi 3 O 10 (OH) 2 See also mica

phlogopite

/ flŏg′ə-pīt′ /

1. A yellow to dark-brown mica. Phlogopite is monoclinic and is usually found in limestone. It is used in insulation. Chemical formula: K(Mg,Fe) 3 AlSi 3 O 10 (OH) 2 .

Word History and Origins

Origin of phlogopite¹

1840–50; < Greek phlogōp ( ós ) fiery-looking ( phlog-, stem of phlóx flame + ōp ( ḗ ) view, look + -os adj. suffix) + -ite ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of phlogopite¹

C19: from Greek phlogōpos of fiery appearance, from phlox flame + ōps eye