Crystallography, Mineralogy and Gemstones - 2019 entry
MODULE TITLE | Crystallography, Mineralogy and Gemstones | CREDIT VALUE | 15 |
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MODULE CODE | CSM1043 | MODULE CONVENER | Ms Aveen Hameed (Coordinator) |
DURATION: TERM | 1 | 2 | 3 |
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DURATION: WEEKS | 0 | 10 | 0 |
Number of Students Taking Module (anticipated) | 40 |
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Mineralogy is the study of Minerals, their chemical composition, internal crystal structure and physical properties. Minerals are the building blocks of the Earth, and are used to identify rocks and also to piece together the history and conditions of rock formation. This module forms one of the fundamentals of Geology, and having the skills to describe and identify minerals is an essential skill for all geologists, and you will use the skills you learn on this course throughout your geology degree.
There are no prerequisite courses, although it is helpful to have studied the introductory geology and chemistry modules. A background in science subjects is useful. The module is suitable for non-specialist students and interdisciplinary pathways.
This module aims to help you acquire knowledge of crystals and the common rock-forming minerals, and to gain experience in recognising minerals in hand specimen and thin section.
On successful completion of this module, you should be able to:
Module Specific Skills and Knowledge:
1. Define what a mineral is, which crystal system it belong to and know the chemical formulas of the more common minerals;
2. Understand the physical, chemical and optical properties of minerals;
3. Be able to use a systematic method to identify an unknown mineral using basic principles;
4. Describe, identify and classify some common minerals including: Quartz, Calcite, Muscovite, biotite, Feldspars, Pyrite, Arsenopyrite, pyroxenes, amphiboles, chlorite, olivine, Sphalerite, Pyrrhotite, Hematite, Magnetite, Cassiterite, Bornite, Galena, Chalcopyrite, Baryte, fluorite, Garnet, clays, gypsum, kyanite, andalusite, halite; you will also learn to identify some of the more common gemstones (Diamond, Beryl, Corundum, Topaz, Garnet).
5. Define the factors controlling the formation and stability of common rock-forming minerals;
6. Explain how minerals can be used to elucidate the story of how rocks formed: when, how and where
7. Show a proficiency in identifying silicates using a petrological microscope;
8. Exhibit an understanding of the basic theory of mineral optics using transmitted light;
9. Display an understanding of basic principles of identification of minerals by EPMA and XRD.
Discipline Specific Skills and Knowledge:
10. Identify common minerals;
11. Use transmitted light microscopy to determine the basic optical properties of minerals;
12. Calculate mineral formulae from chemical analyses.
Personal and Key Transferable/ Employment Skills and Knowledge:
13. Be able to use a systematic approach to mineral identification;
14. Adopt good working practice when using microscopes and their accessories;
15. Demonstrate skills in researching a particular mineral topic;
16. Show presentation skills in presenting a particular mineral topic.
- Introduction to Mineralogy;
- Mineral growth and crystal structure;
- Physical properties of minerals;
- Optical properties of minerals;
- Silicates;
- Carbonates;
- Oxides;
- Sulphides;
- Gemstones.
Scheduled Learning & Teaching Activities | 37 | Guided Independent Study | 113 | Placement / Study Abroad | 0 |
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Category | Hours of study time | Description |
Scheduled learning and teaching activities | 14 | Lectures |
Scheduled learning and teaching activities | 30 | Practicals |
Guided independent study | 106 | Lecture and assessment preparation; private study |
Form of Assessment | Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) | ILOs Assessed | Feedback Method |
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Comments on practical books | 6, 7, 9, 12 | Comments on practical books | |
Coursework | 10 | Written Exams | 60 | Practical Exams | 30 |
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Form of Assessment | % of Credit | Size of Assessment (e.g. duration/length) | ILOs Assessed | Feedback Method |
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Examination | 60 | 1.5 hours | 1-12 | Tutor meeting |
Assessed practical | 30 | 2.5 hours | 1-5, 13-14 | Feedback on mark sheets |
Group assignment | 10 | Variable timings | 1-12 | Feedback on mark sheets |
Original Form of Assessment | Form of Re-assessment | ILOs Re-assessed | Time Scale for Re-reassessment |
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Summative assessment | Additional assessment | All | August Ref/Def period |
Examination | Additional examination | All | August Ref/Def period |
As above, 60% exam, 30% assessed practical, 10% assignment.
information that you are expected to consult. Further guidance will be provided by the Module Convener
Basic reading:
ELE – http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/
Web based and electronic resources:
mindat.org
https://www.virtualmicroscope.org/content/uk-virtual-microscope
Reading list for this module:
Type | Author | Title | Edition | Publisher | Year | ISBN |
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Set | Gribble, C.D. & Hall, A.J. | Optical mineralogy: Principles and practice | UCL Press | 1992 |
CREDIT VALUE | 15 | ECTS VALUE | 7.5 |
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PRE-REQUISITE MODULES | None |
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CO-REQUISITE MODULES | None |
NQF LEVEL (FHEQ) | 4 | AVAILABLE AS DISTANCE LEARNING | No |
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ORIGIN DATE | Thursday 6th July 2017 | LAST REVISION DATE | Tuesday 11th June 2019 |
KEY WORDS SEARCH | Mineral; optical; microscopy; crystallography; rock. |
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Please note that all modules are subject to change, please get in touch if you have any questions about this module.