Definition

A mineral that is usually dark green, brown, or black, made of zinc and aluminum oxide.

Example

Gahnite is often found in metamorphic rocks and is valued by mineral collectors.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of gahnite?

No, I haven't. What is it?

It's a mineral that's usually dark green and has zinc in it.

That sounds interesting! I love learning about different minerals.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'gahnite' originates from the name of the mineral, which is derived from the German chemist Johann Wolfgang Döbereiner, who first described it. The suffix '-ite' is commonly used in mineralogy to denote minerals or rocks. Therefore, 'gahnite' refers to a mineral named after Döbereiner.

Memory Tip

Think of the chemist Döbereiner who discovered this mineral, and remember that '-ite' indicates it is a type of mineral.

Visually Confused Words