Breithauptite

/ˌbreɪtˈhaʊptaɪt/ noun

Definition

A rare metallic mineral composed of nickel antimonide, a brittle crystalline compound with a bronze-gray color.

Etymology

Named after Friedrich August Breithaupt, a German mineralogist from the 19th century. The '-ite' suffix again marks it as a mineral, with the full name honoring scientific discoveries.

Kelly Says

When scientists discover a new mineral, they get the honor of naming it—imagine the coolest scientific bragging rights: 'Yeah, there's literally a rock named after me in every geology textbook!'

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