How Do You Spell NEVADAITE?

Pronunciation: [nˈɛvɐdˌe͡ɪt] (IPA)

"Nevadaite" is often misspelled due to its unique pronunciation. It is pronounced as /nəˈvædəaɪt/ with the stress on the second syllable. Phonetic transcription of this word shows that it begins with the "n" sound followed by the schwa vowel, "ə." The second syllable has two vowels: "a" and "i," both of which remain pronounced separately. The last syllable has an "t" sound. Remembering this spelling can be tricky since there are many variations of the pronunciation of the word Nevada, but its correct spelling is important for effective communication.

NEVADAITE Meaning and Definition

1. Nevadaite is a rare mineral that belongs to the zeolite group, specifically a subgroup known as the stilbite group. It is named after its type locality, the state of Nevada, United States, where it was first discovered. Nevadaite is a hydrated sodium, calcium, aluminum silicate mineral and is typically found in the form of small, colorless to white prismatic crystals with a vitreous to pearly luster.

   Chemically, nevadaite is composed of sodium (Na), calcium (Ca), aluminum (Al), silicon (Si), and oxygen (O), with the chemical formula Na2Ca(Si3Al2)O10∙2H2O. It has a monoclinic crystal system and a moderate to high Mohs hardness of 4.5 to 5.

   Nevadaite is commonly found in cavities or vesicles within volcanic rocks, often associated with other zeolite minerals such as stilbite, heulandite, and epistilbite. It forms as a secondary mineral, resulting from the alteration of volcanic deposits in the presence of hydrothermal fluids.

   Although nevadaite is not widely known outside the realm of mineral collectors and enthusiasts, its unique crystal habits, association with volcanic rocks, and its chemical composition make it of scientific interest. Due to its scarcity and restricted occurrence, nevadaite holds economic value primarily for collectors who appreciate its aesthetic qualities and its rarity in the mineral world.