phillipsite

noun

phil·​lips·​ite

ˈfilə̇pˌsīt

plural -s

: a white or reddish mineral approximately (K₂,Na₂,Ca)Al₂Si₄O₁₂.4¹/₂ H₂O consisting of a hydrous silicate of potassium, calcium, and aluminum, belonging to the zeolite family, and commonly occurring in complex often cruciform crystals (hardness 4–4.5, specific gravity 2.2)

Word History

Etymology

William Phillips †1828 English mineralogist and geologist + English -ite

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