Definition

Noun: 1. A mineral: A green, yellow, or brown mineral composed of a complex hydrated silicate of calcium and aluminum. It typically forms crystals in metamorphosed limestone and is valued as a gemstone. It is also known by the name vesuvianite.

Usage

• As a subject: "Idocrase is often found in skarn deposits."
• As an object: "The collector acquired a fine specimen of idocrase."
• With a modifier: "The green idocrase from Quebec is particularly prized by gemologists."

Examples

• "Under the microscope, the idocrase crystals displayed a distinctive tetragonal shape."
• "The jeweler carefully cut the rough idocrase into a brilliant gem."
• "This mineral assemblage includes calcite, garnet, and idocrase."

Advanced Usage

• In geological contexts: Idocrase is a key indicator mineral for a specific type of metamorphic rock formation, helping geologists understand the temperature and pressure history of the rock.
  • Example: "The presence of idocrase suggests the limestone underwent high-temperature metamorphism."

Variants and Related Words

• Vesuvianite (noun): This is the more common synonym for idocrase in mineralogy, named after its discovery near Mount Vesuvius.
  • Example: "The terms idocrase and vesuvianite are used interchangeably."

Synonyms

• Vesuvianite

Notes on Different Meanings

The word "idocrase" has only one specific meaning in English, referring exclusively to this mineralogical species. It does not have other common definitions or usages outside of geology and gemology.

Noun

1. a green or yellow or brown mineral consisting of a hydrated silicate; it occurs as crystals in limestone and is used a gemstone