Glaucophane
/ˈɡlɔːkəfeɪn/noun
A blue to blue-gray amphibole mineral commonly found in high-pressure, low-temperature metamorphic rocks.
Did you know?Glaucophane is a signature mineral of blueschist, revealing that ancient rock was carried deep into a subduction zone before being returned toward the surface.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
γλαυκός (glaukós)
“Bluish-gray, blue-green, or gleaming; the color term behind the mineral’s name.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
φαίνω (phaínō)
“To bring to light, make appear, or show.”
18th–19th Century
French
glaucophane
“A mineral name formed from Greek elements referring to its blue-gray appearance.”
1845
English
glaucophane
“The established English name for the blue amphibole mineral.”
Modern English
English
glaucophane
“A diagnostic blue amphibole of high-pressure metamorphic rocks, especially blueschist.”
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