Paragonite
/ˈpær.ə.ɡə.naɪt/noun
A rare white mica mineral, a sodium-rich member of the muscovite group.
Did you know?Paragonite was named from the Greek word for a touchstone because early mineralogists used related stones to test and compare materials—proof that even rocks were once part of a system of judgment and discernment.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
paragōn
“a touchstone used for testing metals”
Late Latin
Latin
paragon
“a touchstone; a standard of comparison”
16th Century
French
paragon
“a model of excellence; a perfect example”
19th Century
English
paragonite
“a mineral named for its association with paragon-like mica specimens”
Modern English
English
paragonite
“a sodium-rich mica mineral”
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