Mineralogy is the branch of Earth science concerned with the chemistry, crystal structure and physical properties of minerals, the naturally occurring inorganic solids that make up rocks. Mineralogists classify minerals by their crystal system and chemical composition, using techniques such as X-ray diffraction to determine atomic structure, and the discipline underlies the identification of ore deposits, gemstones and construction materials as well as the study of how minerals form under different pressures and temperatures within the Earth. Modern mineralogy also studies minerals found in meteorites and returned planetary samples, extending the field beyond Earth itself.
Facts
Central QuestionHow minerals originate and form, how they can be classified, and how their distribution and properties determine their utilization. 1 ScopeMineralogy is a branch of geology devoted to the scientific study of the chemistry, crystal structure and physical properties of minerals and mineralized artifacts. 1 SignificanceMineralogy's classification of minerals by chemistry, crystal structure and distribution underpins their identification and practical utilization. 1 Disputed
Founded YearNicholas Steno 1669 observation of the law of constancy of interfacial angles in quartz crystals, the first law of crystallography, is recorded here as mineralogy modern scientific founding. Georgius Agricola De Natura Fossilium (1546) is an earlier descriptive precedent, and Rene Just Hauy later work built crystallography into the field own foundation. Sources
1. Mineralogy (Wikipedia)
WikipediaLead section, definition sentence
Mineralogy is a subject of geology specializing in the scientific study of the chemistry, crystal structure, and physical (including optical) properties of minerals and mineralized artifacts.
Lead section, scope sentence
Specific studies within mineralogy include the processes of mineral origin and formation, classification of minerals, their geographical distribution, and their utilization.
Lead section, closing sentence
classification of minerals, their geographical distribution, and their utilization.
History
Nicholas Steno first observed the law of constancy of interfacial angles (also known as the first law of crystallography) in quartz crystals in 1669.
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