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Tarnish |
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tarnish [′tär·nish]
(metallurgy) Discoloration of a metal surface due to the formation of a thin film of oxide, sulfide, or some other corrosion product. (mineralogy) The altered color and luster of a mineral surface; characteristic of copper-bearing minerals. tarnish An oxide layer on a metal surface that causes it to dull, often discoloring it. Tarnish the variegated, often iridescent, coloring of a thin surface layer of a mineral, differing sharply from the color of the rest of the mineral. Tarnish is caused by the presence, on the surface of the mineral grains, of a thin film formed as a result of the alteration of the mineral, for example, under exposure to oxygen. The film often produces an iridescent effect. Tarnish is typical of bornite, chalcopyrite, limonite, and other minerals. It is not observed on a fresh surface of mineral breakage. Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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