A species of Minerals, Also known as Attapulgite-palygorskite
Palygorskite or attapulgite is a magnesium aluminium phyllosilicate with formula (Mg,Al)2Si4O10(OH)·4(H2O) that occurs in a type of clay soil common to the Southeastern United States. It is one of the types of fuller's earth. Some smaller deposits of this mineral can be found in Mexico, where its use is tied to the manufacture of Maya blue in pre-Columbian times.
Hardness:
2 - 2.5
Density:
2.35 g/cm³
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Properties
Characteristics
Cultural
Common Questions
General Info About Palygorskite
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Physical Properties of Palygorskite
Colors
White, grayish, yellowish, gray-green
Streak
White
Hardness
2 - 2.5 , Extremely soft
Density
2.35 g/cm³, Normal Weight
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Chemical Properties of Palygorskite
Formula
(Mg,Al)2Si4O10(OH) · 4H2O
Elements listed
Al, H, Mg, O, Si
Common Impurities
Fe,K
Characteristics of Palygorskite
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Cultural Significance of Palygorskite
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The Meaning of Palygorskite
Palygorskite clay, combined with indigo dyes, was used as an unusual blue pigment in the pre-Columbian era by the Maya civilization. Since the 4th Century, Maya blue pigment was widely used in pottery, paintings and murals. The dye also had an important role to play in the Mayan culture. It is believed that ancient Maya used this dye as sacrificial paint – they painted the bodies of victims before sacrificing them.
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