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Hydrophane

Idocrasium Page of 243 Hydrophane Text size:minus plus Restore normal size   Mail page  Print this page
HYDROPHANE.
129
porous. It takes a good polish. Its specific weight never exceeds 2-3.
What is most extraordinary with regard to this sub­stance is, that it adheres to the tongue, because it imbibes humidity easily.
When immersed in water, it immediately gives out little bubbles of oxygen ; these were in the pores, which soon fill with water, rendering it thus clear and bright until dried up again by contact with the air.
It is found in China, Arabia, Egypt, the Feröe Isles, Hungary, Silesia, Saxony, Piedmont, and in Trance.
When analysed, it gives
From the increase of its weight, it is proved that it absorbs the liquid in which it is immersed.
Acids have no power over it, excepting tartaric acid, which makes the colour brighter. It is insoluble in ether.
It is found but seldom, and then in calcedony and opaline rocks, which must be broken in prodigious quantities before finding a really fine hydrofane.
This stone is but little used. It cuts smooth and thin, and is generally set clear, or without any back­ground of metal or talc ; so that, when immersed, all its properties may be better known and appreciated.
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Idocrasium Page of 243 Hydrophane
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