noun
- A pale feldspar mineral of the plagioclase group, typically containing 10–30% calcium aluminate and used in ceramics and glass manufacturing.
Usage: mineralogy; technical
Examples
- Oligoclase is commonly found in granitic rocks and pegmatites.
- The geologist identified oligoclase crystals in the thin section under the microscope.
- Oligoclase feldspar is valued in the ceramics industry for its purity and melting properties.
- Many igneous rocks contain oligoclase as a primary mineral component.
- The pale color of oligoclase distinguishes it from other plagioclase feldspars.