Bornite

/ˈbɔrnaɪt/ noun

Definition

A brittle copper ore mineral with a distinctive purple or iridescent tarnish, important for copper extraction.

Etymology

Named after Ignaz von Born (18th-century mineralogist) + -ite (suffix for minerals). Von Born was an Austrian naturalist who advanced mineral classification.

Kelly Says

Bornite is called 'peacock ore' because its tarnish displays rainbow colors—miners have treasured it for centuries just for its stunning beauty!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

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