Corundum
Corundum
Corundum (/kəˈrʌndəm/) is a crystalline form of Aluminium Oxide typically containing traces of Iron, Titanium, Vanadium, and Chromium. It is a rock-forming mineral. It is one of the naturally transparent materials, but can have different colors when impurities are present. Transparent specimens are used as gems, called Ruby if red and Sapphire if any other color.
Etymology
The name "corundum" is derived from the Tamil word kurundam which originates from the Sanskrit word kuruvinda meaning ruby.
Properties
Corundum itself is not a very interesting mineral, but it holds the distinction of being the second hardest natural mineral known to science, with a Mohs Scale of Hardness rating of 9, just below Diamond.
Uses
Corundum has many other uses. It is chemically inert and resistant to heat. These properties make it a perfect material for making refractory products such as fire brick, kiln liners, and kiln furniture. Today it is used as an abrasive in products like grinding wheels and toothpaste. It is also used in sandpaper and in the manufacture of porcelain products.
Related Terms
- Ruby: A red gemstone variety of Corundum.
- Sapphire: Any gemstone variety of Corundum that is not red.
- Mohs Scale of Hardness: A scale used to measure the relative hardness of a mineral by its resistance to scratching.
- Aluminium Oxide: A chemical compound of aluminium and oxygen with the chemical formula Al2O3, which is the mineral form of Corundum.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Corundum
- Wikipedia's article - Corundum
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