Dumortierite

/ˌduːmɔrʃiəˈraɪt/ noun

Definition

A hard boron aluminum silicate mineral, typically blue in color, used as a gemstone and in industrial applications.

Etymology

Named after E. Dumortier, a 19th-century French paleontologist. The '-ite' suffix indicates it's a mineral name, following the convention of honoring the scientist who discovered or studied it.

Kelly Says

Dumortierite is treasured by gem collectors for its stunning blue color—it's named after a paleontologist, not a gem hunter! Sometimes the coolest minerals get named for people working on completely different science.

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