Elements of Optical Mineralogy

Bys: N H Winghell and A N Wingchell

"Elements of Optical Mineralogy" is an essential scientific reference that provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and techniques used to identify minerals through their optical properties. Written for students and practitioners of geology and petrography, this work explores the complex behavior of light as it interacts with crystalline substances. The text offers a systematic approach to understanding the refractive indices, birefringence, and interference figures of various mineral species.

By detailing the use of the petrographic microscope, the authors provide a rigorous framework for the microscopic examination of rock-forming minerals. The volume includes detailed descriptions of mineral groups, classification systems, and the physical laws governing optical phenomena in crystals. "Elements of Optical Mineralogy" stands as a foundational contribution to the earth sciences, bridging the gap between theoretical physics and practical mineral identification. Its clear methodologies and technical depth make it a valuable resource for those studying crystallography and the internal structure of the Earth's crust. This work remains a classic in the field, prized for its clarity and its enduring relevance to the study of mineralogical science.

This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.

This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.

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• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1025632141
• ISBN13: 9781025632148
• Release Date: February 2026
• Publisher: Tradd Street Press
• Length: 442 Pages
• Weight: 1.36 lbs.
• Dimensions: 9.2" x 0.9" x 6.1"