Subject
Crystallography Books
Best books
John Ruskin
The Ethics of the Dust
"The Ethics of the Dust" by John Ruskin is a collection of lectures aimed at young girls, written during the late 19th century. This educational work combines elements of mineralogy and ethical reflections, focusing on the moral implications of how materials, particularly precious stones like diamonds, influence human behavior and society. The lectures take place in a setting designed to stimulate curiosity and engagement among the audience, as Ruskin explores the connections between physical crystals and human values. The opening of the book begins with a playful and imaginative interchange among the characters, including the Old Lecturer and several young girls, who engage in a fantastical discussion about the "Valley of Diamonds." The lecturer introduces themes of beauty, danger, and moral lessons tied to the pursuit of wealth represented by the diamonds. The girls express a mix of awe and fear at the concept of this valley, illustrating how desire can lead to moral quandaries. As they delve into the idea that true beauty can lead to peril, the dialogue sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Ruskin's thoughts on materialism, ethics, and the nature of value in life and art.
A. E. H. (Alfred Edwin Howard) Tutton
Crystals
"Crystals" by A. E. H. Tutton is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book aims to make crystallography accessible to the general public, providing an overview of the fascinating phenomena associated with crystals, particularly the beauty of their structures and behaviors under polarized light. It discusses various topics, including the growth processes of crystals and the theoretical underpinnings of crystallography without delving into complex mathematics or jargon. The opening of "Crystals" introduces the concept that crystals, while often seen as mere solid forms, exhibit characteristics similar to living organisms, such as growth and recovery after damage. It emphasizes the idea that crystals can regrow in favorable conditions, drawing parallels between their growth processes and the regenerative abilities found in biological organisms. Tutton illustrates these concepts with examples of quartz crystals, describing how they can develop from disintegrated pieces over time if introduced back into an environment conducive to crystallization. The author sets the stage for exploring various aspects of crystallography, including the historical development of the field and significant figures who contributed to our understanding of crystal formation and structure.
Henry Alex Miers
The Growth of a Crystal Being the eighteenth Robert Boyle lecture
"The Growth of a Crystal" by Henry Alex Miers is a scientific publication delivered as the Eighteenth Robert Boyle Lecture before the Oxford University Junior Scientific Club in the early 20th century. This lecture explores the fascinating and intricate process of crystal growth, contrasting it with the growth of living organisms. Miers draws on historical perspectives and contemporary research to elucidate the nature of crystalline structures and their unique characteristics. In this lecture, Miers discusses various fundamental aspects of crystal growth, emphasizing its similarities and differences with biological growth. He presents experiments illustrating how crystals can grow from supersaturated solutions and explores the implications of these processes on our understanding of mineralogy. By using analogies to living systems, he highlights the stagnant yet fascinating life of crystals, which, unlike biological entities, do not adapt to their surroundings but persistently maintain their form. This thought-provoking lecture serves as a comprehensive examination of crystallography, inviting researchers from diverse scientific backgrounds to engage with the wonders of crystal formation and its underlying principles.
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