Diedraals

Diedraals are a type of crystalline mineral that belong to the orthorhombic crystal system. They are characterized by their distinctive prismatic or tabular crystal habit, which often forms in clusters or radiating groups. Diedraals are typically colorless or white, but can also occur in shades of gray, yellow, or brown due to impurities. The mineral is named after the Greek word "diedros," meaning "twice-folded," reflecting its characteristic crystal shape.

The chemical composition of diedraals is primarily calcium carbonate, with the chemical formula CaCO3. This makes them a form of calcite, which is a common mineral found in various geological settings. Diedraals are often associated with other carbonate minerals, such as aragonite and dolomite, and can be found in sedimentary rocks, particularly in limestone formations. They are also known to occur in hydrothermal veins and as a secondary mineral in metamorphic rocks.

Diedraals are not typically used for industrial purposes due to their softness and low hardness on the Mohs scale, which is around 3. However, they are occasionally collected by mineral enthusiasts for their aesthetic appeal and the interesting crystal habits they exhibit. The mineral's optical properties, such as its birefringence and pleochroism, can also make it an interesting subject for study in the field of crystallography.