Greg Parkhurst, Micro mineral club reporter
Singular micro crystals was the theme of our most recent micro mineral meeting, and we had an exceptional array of specimens to enjoy. As you can guess, the microscopes came in very handy since many specimens, although spectacular, were minuscule!
Before we get to that, however…
We have a new attendee who has found a way to tease out the lovely micro-topographical variations in a mineral facet via optical “staining” called Differential Interference Contrast (DIC).
Richard employs a variation commonly used by material scientists and computer chip manufacturers to look at solid objects. Known as reflected light DIC, this technique accentuates the tiniest topographical differences on a crystal face.
Placed on a turntable, one can also distinguish variations by, get this, live color changes as your rotate a specimen! Check out these photos, and please, please, please consider if you have any specimens in your collection for Richard to check out with his set up!
Back to the singular crystals, Dave proudly showed off his pyrite specimen (mounted by AGMCs own J. Carrie). Noting the length and size of the support material, can you guess from what natural product it is made?
How about Jim’s diamond octahedron from Africa? What natural material has he used for this mount? Check next month’s News Nuggets for the answers!
Jay had a number of wonderful tiny, singular specimens from his extensive collection like this wulfenite from La Paz Co, AZ, this quartz from Grant Co, NM, and this Herradura quartz from Sierra Co, NM. Although a twin, this notable spinel from Vietnam was given a chance to show off its color and form. Pat was kind enough to bring along her garnet from White Pine Co., Nevada, a topaz from Valley Co., Idaho, and a sea green emerald from
Colombia! Thanks, Pat!
Two more micros were just too flashy to miss their photo op here! A clear, pink spinel from Burma, and a yellow-orange mimetite stunner from China were shared by Ray, and gave us renewed hope in finding our own precious specimens as we search high and low.
Hope to see you at the next meeting, June 10, at the Monte Vista Christian Church on Campus Dr. at 6:30. The topic will be unique micro minerals with unusual habits, and we will have an extra scope just for you.
