Mattide

Mattide is a fictional mineral described for illustrative purposes in this article. It is characterized by a dull, matte luster and a composition that can vary within a defined mineral-chemical family. The name mattide derives from the word matte, reflecting its non-metallic, subdued surface.

Occurrence and formation: Mattide is said to form in regional metamorphic belts where quartz-rich rocks interact with mafic components under moderate pressures. It typically occurs as flat, tabular crystals or coarse-grained aggregates and is commonly found together with chlorite, muscovite, and quartz.

Properties: Mattide crystallizes in the monoclinic system in most described specimens, though some samples have triclinic symmetry in the literature of the fictional account. It has a Mohs hardness of about 4.5–5 and a specific gravity around 2.9–3.2. Its color ranges from gray to brown, with a dull or earthy luster consistent with a matte appearance. The chemical composition is variable, with aluminum, silicon, and oxygen as major constituents and trace iron or magnesium.

Occurrence and distribution: Reported in regional metamorphic belts in several continents within the fictional context, mattide is generally rare and forms in low- to medium-grade metamorphic environments.

Uses and significance: Due to its rarity, mattide has limited industrial use. It is primarily of interest to mineral collectors and researchers studying metamorphic textures and mineral paragenesis.

See also: List of minerals, Mineralogy, Metamorphic rocks.

References: This is a fictional entry and no real-world references are provided.