•
Rating: Among the numerous books I've read, this volume has a particular merit. It sparked my passion for mineralogy.
In my collection, I would recognize it with my eyes closed, just by its smell. A compact volume of 960 grams, with dimensions of 12x20 cm.
Easy to carry and convenient to consult. The introduction delves into multiple topics.
Crystal morphology, elements and degrees of symmetry, lattice structure, polymorphism, isomorphism, associations and twinning, physical properties, scalar and vectorial. Observations under the microscope, X-ray recognition, chemical analysis, formation environment, cataloging, and archiving.
Subsequently, wonderful mineralogical cards are shown.
On the right, the photographs; on the left, the data: system, appearance, physical properties, formation environment, locations, uses, density, and rarity.
I am still fascinated by the numerous uses of elements and minerals. Out of curiosity, I include some examples.
Copper (Cu): electrical engineering. Silver (Ag): chemistry, jewelry, electronics.
Mercury (Hg): explosives, pharmacy. Graphite (C): refractories, electrodes, dry lubricants, pencils, dyes.
Diamond (C): gemstones, abrasives, cutting and drilling tools.
Sulfur (S): sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄), rubber vulcanization, explosives, fertilizers.
Greenockite (CdS): electric batteries, high-temperature alloys, anti-oxidation metal plating.
Realgar (AsS): pyrotechnics, paints. Orpiment (As₂S₃): leather tanning.
Rock salt (NaCl): food, chemical, canning and scientific industry.
Fluorite (CaF₂): ceramic, optical, and plastics industry.
Anyone, with their imagination, observing these underground formations, could identify infinite worlds and unsuspected microcosms .
Desires and dreams for collectors! The wonderful and unheard-of shapes, the extraordinary and dazzling colors, the astonishing transparencies and sizes.
In a well-known mineralogical database, over 5620 minerals are cataloged.
Among the most famous collectors worldwide, who dedicated a lifetime to travels and research, I was thrilled by that of Colonel Louis P. L. Vésigné.
He gathered over 40,000 incomparable specimens of minerals, gems, and cut stones. Upon his death, the collection passed, by his will, to the Natural History Museum of Paris.
F ©
Loading comments slowly
