plagioclase
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.
About Our Definitions: All forms of a word (noun, verb, etc.) are now displayed on one page.pla·gio·clase
noun \ˈplā-j(ē-)ə-ˌklās, ˈpla-, -ˌklāz\Definition of PLAGIOCLASE
: a triclinic feldspar; especially : one having calcium or sodium in its composition
Origin of PLAGIOCLASE
Greek plagios oblique + klasis breaking, from klan to break — more at clast
First Known Use: circa 1868
plagioclase
noun (Concise Encyclopedia)Any member of the series of abundant feldspar minerals that usually occur as light- to medium-grey-coloured, transparent to translucent grains or crystals. Plagioclase ranges in composition from albite to anorthite. It is used in the manufacture of glass and ceramics; iridescent varieties are valued as gemstones. The primary importance of plagioclase, however, derives from its role as a rock-forming mineral.
Learn More About PLAGIOCLASE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: plagioclinal
Previous Word in the Dictionary: plagiochila
All Words Near: plagioclase
Previous Word in the Dictionary: plagiochila
All Words Near: plagioclase
Seen & Heard 
What made you want to look up plagioclase? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
