| People have always been fascinated by precious stones because of their lustre. But not only polished gems shine. Each raw mineral has, such as mica flakes in the river sand show, its very special characteristic luster. Gloss isn't simply measurable. It is usually described by comparison with objects ... morePeople have always been fascinated by precious stones because of their lustre. But not only polished gems shine. Each raw mineral has, such as mica flakes in the river sand show, its very special characteristic luster. Gloss isn't simply measurable. It is usually described by comparison with objects of everyday life ... (in german) |
| The term used in the plural "pyrites" has often been misused in the past or in common for marcasite, chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite and other yellow to brass-colored minerals. The word pyrite is derived from the Greek "pyrites lithos" (derived pyr = fire and lithos = stone) and describes a characteristic ... moreThe term used in the plural "pyrites" has often been misused in the past or in common for marcasite, chalcopyrite, pyrrhotite and other yellow to brass-colored minerals. The word pyrite is derived from the Greek "pyrites lithos" (derived pyr = fire and lithos = stone) and describes a characteristic of the mineral, when rubbing against steel or flint (flint) to generate sparks. In prehistoric tombs pyrite concretions and unrolled pyrite where found, which supposed to be used for lighting a fire. (Article in German) |