Cyclosilicate

/ˌsaɪ.kloʊˈsɪl.ɪ.keɪt/ noun

Definition

A type of silicate mineral containing silicon-oxygen rings arranged in cyclic structures, such as beryl and tourmaline.

Etymology

From 'cyclo-' (ring structure) + 'silicate' (silicon-oxygen compound). The name describes how silicon and oxygen atoms are bonded in circular arrangements.

Kelly Says

Cyclosilicates include emerald and aquamarine—those gems are just cyclosilicate minerals with the right trace elements and perfect crystal structure, which is why they're so precious and beautiful!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.