Geology

Colours in Minerals

Minerals possess many properties. Colour is usually the first and most easily observed. For many minerals, colour is a reliable diagnostic property used for identification. For others, it is the most variable and unreliable property.

But what causes colour in minerals? This is something that was debated among geologists for years. It is only in the last 15–20 years that scientist have really begun to understand the causes.

Purposes/Goals/Outline

• Introduction to Geology.
• Learn about minerals.
• Minerals under the microscope.
• Discuss the nature of light.
• Perception of colour.
• Introduce the different causes of colour in minerals.
• Factors influencing colour.
• We will do XRD and XRF.
• Heat treatment/irridation of certain minerals.
• Grow minerals and adding minute concentrations of certain chemicals to produce different colours.
  

Participants

• Ms. Wiebke Grote