Crystalligerous

/krɪˈstælɪdʒərəs/ adjective

Definition

Bearing or producing crystals; having the ability to generate or contain crystals.

Etymology

From Latin crystallum (crystal) + -ous (bearing), combined with -igerous from Latin -iger (carrying, bearing). The term emerged in mineralogy to describe rocks and minerals that naturally produce crystal formations.

Kelly Says

This rare scientific word captures how geologists classify rocks that are 'pregnant' with crystals—it's like calling a material a crystal factory. Most granite and quartz-rich rocks would be crystalligerous, which is why they sparkle so beautifully.

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