Amphiboles

/ˈæmfɪboʊlz/ noun

Definition

Plural of amphibole; a group of silicate minerals that commonly occur in igneous and metamorphic rocks.

Etymology

Simple plural of 'amphibole' (from Greek 'amphibolos'), used when referring to multiple mineral samples or the mineral group as a whole.

Kelly Says

Amphiboles are so common in Earth's rocks that geologists use them as a clock—the chemical composition of amphiboles in ancient rocks tells the temperature and pressure when rocks formed, unlocking Earth's geological history.

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