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Unveiling the Ordered World of Minerals
Welcome to this interactive exploration of mineral crystallography. This guide is designed to introduce the fundamental principles that govern the internal structure of minerals. Discover how the precise arrangement of atoms defines a mineral’s shape, properties, and very identity. Navigate through the sections to explore the seven crystal systems, understand the link between structure and physical properties, and learn about the methods scientists use to probe these atomic blueprints.
The Seven Crystal Systems
The classification of crystals into seven distinct systems is a cornerstone of crystallography. Each system is defined by the geometry of its unit cell—the smallest repeating structural unit. Click on a system below to dynamically explore its unique parameters, symmetry, representative minerals, and a visual model of its unit cell. This interactive approach allows for direct comparison and a deeper understanding of their structural differences.
Axial Parameters
Key Symmetry
Optical Properties
Example Minerals
Unit Cell Geometry
Bravais Lattices
Structure and Properties
A mineral’s internal atomic structure is the direct cause of its observable physical and optical properties. Weaknesses in the atomic lattice create cleavage planes, while the strength of atomic bonds determines hardness. Explore the tabs below to understand how these fundamental properties are a direct manifestation of a mineral’s crystal system and internal order.
Methods for Probing Structures
Scientists use a variety of sophisticated techniques to determine the crystal structure of minerals. From using X-rays to map atomic positions to employing polarized light to reveal optical properties, each method provides a unique window into the ordered world of crystals. Click on each technique below to learn about its principles and what it reveals.