Mariposite is a chromium rich mineral, which gives off a shiny green color. Because it was first discovered near Mariposa, it's only appropriate if it was called Mariposite. One of the characteristics of this mineral is that it's full of large micas, another mineral commonly found in granite and quartz. Micas are made of silica atoms that absorb all observable light, hence why they look dark and black. So how does Mariposite form?
Usually, Mariposite forms in large veins of quartz and dolomite. Quartz is made up of mostly silicon molecules (SiO2) and dolomite is made up of a mixture of calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and oxygen (O) atoms. Overtime, the quartz and dolomite rich vein is heated and melts. When it cools, Mariposite is formed.
Works Cited
http://www.minerals.net/mineral-variety/mineral/mariposite.aspx
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mariposite
http://www.johnbetts-fineminerals.com/jhbnyc/mineralmuseum/picshow.php?id=26021
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1. A Shrine to Justice - on the first line of your email.
2. Describe the texture AND color(s) of the Mariposite at this location.
3. Describe the erosion processes here AND how they are effecting the Mariposite.
4. Describe two geologic similarities and differences of the polished surface verses the unpolished surface.
5. How large (or small) are the micas inside this Mariposite AND how abundant are they?