Amarantite

/ˌæmərænˈtaɪt/ noun

Definition

A rare iron sulfate mineral with a pinkish or reddish color, found in acid mine drainage areas and oxidized iron sulfide deposits.

Etymology

From 'amaranth' (referring to its reddish color, like the amaranth plant) combined with the mineralogical suffix '-ite,' used to name minerals and rocks.

Kelly Says

This mineral's name perfectly demonstrates how science borrows from nature—geologists saw the deep red color of amaranth flowers and named this beautiful but toxic mineral after it!

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