LXXI.
OOLITE.
This mineral
is a calcareous spar composed of very minute spherical particles, whose
cohesion depends on a calcareous substance which acts as a cement.
Its principal component is carbonate of lime.
The name it bears is derived from the Greek ώόν, ovum, on
account of its similarity to the spawn of fish. The oolite is found in
pebbles or in masses. It is white, red, brown, or yellow. Large ridges
of it are found in France and England.
Cut
and polished it is a fine marble, and it is used in ornamenting houses,
as may be seen in many houses of the city of Bath, in England.
