pyrophane means A mineral which is opaque in its natural state, but is said to change its color and become transparent by heat.
Why “pyrophane” is a great word
A mineral which is opaque in its natural state but becomes transparent when heated. From the Greek combining form pyro- ("fire") and the Ancient Greek φαίνω (phaínō, "to show or shine"). Unlike opal, a gemstone celebrated for its intrinsic play-of-color, or pyromorphite, named only for its fiery-hued crystal forms, pyrophane is defined solely by its alchemical response to heat. It is the dull pebble on the hearth that becomes a glowing window when held to the fire; the sealed shutter flung open by a torch’s kiss; the stubborn opacity of the world suddenly yielding to clarity under the right persuasion. It is fire not as destroyer but as revealer, the necessary violence that makes the invisible seen.
Etymology
From pyro- + Ancient Greek φαίνω (phaínō, “I show or shine”).
noun
- A mineral which is opaque in its natural state, but is said to change its color and become transparent by heat.
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