Mineralogy Introduction Image: diamon1c.gif GLY 4200 - Lecture 1 – Fall, 2017

Classical Definition of “Mineral” From Edward Salisbury Dana: “A body produced by the processes of inorganic nature, having usually a definite chemical composition and, if formed under favorable conditions, a certain characteristic atomic structure which is expressed in its crystalline form and other properties.” Image: RBERYL1S.JPG

Modern Definition of “Mineral” From C. Klein, “A mineral is a naturally occurring solid with a highly ordered atomic arrangement and a definite (but not fixed) chemical composition. It is usually formed by inorganic processes.”

Properties Which a Mineral Must Possess 1 Occur naturally (synthetic materials are not minerals) 2 Be inorganic - except perhaps those formed by biomineralization 3 Have a definite atomic arrangement (crystallinity) 4 Small range of physical and chemical properties (some minerals have a compositional range, rather than a fixed chemical composition)