Nesosilicates
Nesosilicates are a group of silicate minerals characterized by their isolated silicate tetrahedra, which are not directly connected to each other. Each tetrahedron consists of one silicon atom surrounded by four oxygen atoms. This structure allows nesosilicates to form a variety of mineral types, often with distinct physical properties.
Common examples of nesosilicates include minerals like olivine, garnet, and zircon. These minerals are typically found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and are important for understanding geological processes. Their unique structures contribute to their stability and resistance to weathering, making them significant in both geology and gemology.