Explore the optical fire of crystals and how light reveals their hidden structure.
This comprehensive volume introduces the optical study of crystals, showing how polarized light, interference figures, and birefringence help identify crystal systems and solve structural questions. Clear, process‑driven explanations guide you through essential techniques and practical experiments, from determining principal optical axes to measuring refractive indices. The book emphasizes hands‑on methods using the crystallographic microscope, polariscope, and accessory instruments, making complex ideas feel tangible for serious students and professionals.
In this edition, you’ll discover how three core operations reveal a crystal’s interior: locating the optical axes, assessing their relative lengths, and confirming findings with convergent polarized light interference. It also covers diagnostic signs from interference figures that point to tetragonal, hexagonal, rhombic, and other symmetries. The text blends foundational theory with practical demonstrations, including how to recognize quartz behavior, use biquartz and Biot quartz plates, and compare double refraction with optical rotation. Rich illustrations and step‑by‑step descriptions make the learning experience accessible and engaging.
What you’ll experience
- Hands‑on guidance for using polarised light to identify crystal systems and their optical properties
- Practical demonstrations with instruments like the Crystallographic Microscope and polariscope
- Clear explanations of how to read interference figures and what they reveal about symmetry
- Techniques for distinguishing between double refraction colours and rotation effects in thick and thin crystal samples
Ideal for students and professionals working in crystallography, mineralogy, and materials science who want a solid, applied grounding in crystal optics and micromethods.Ideal for readers of advanced crystallography and optical properties, this edition provides a solid, approachable path from theory to hands‑on practice.