melanite
/ˈmɛlənaɪt/
noun
- A black or very dark variety of the mineral andradite, a type of garnet.
- The jeweler showed me a beautiful ring set with a polished melanite from Africa.
- Melanite is sometimes used in jewelry because of its deep black color and high luster.
- Collectors value melanite for its rarity and its striking appearance in mineral displays.