Definition

A soft, white mineral made of sodium, calcium, and boron, often found in loose, fibrous forms.

Example

Ulexite is sometimes called 'TV rock' because it can transmit images through its fibers.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ulexite?

Yeah, it's that interesting mineral, right?

Exactly! It's known for its unique needle-shaped crystals.

I find it fascinating how it can look so soft yet be so unique.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ulexite is derived from the genus name 'Ulex', which comes from Latin 'ulex', meaning a type of gorse or furze plant. The suffix '-ite' is used in mineralogy to denote minerals or rocks. Therefore, ulexite refers to a mineral named after the gorse plant, likely due to its fibrous appearance resembling the plant's structure.

Memory Tip

Think of the gorse plant ('Ulex') when remembering that ulexite is a mineral named after it, reflecting its fibrous nature.

Visually Confused Words