Wooden Crystal Models - Twins

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Wooden Crystal Models Twins (23).jpg
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Title

Wooden Crystal Models - Twins

Subject

Geology, Mineralogy and Crystallography

Description

Physical Description

These crystal models are composed of a lightly colored Pearwood. Each model is precisely shaped with correct angles to illustrate various examples of seven different groups of crystal structures: isometric, tetragonal, hexagonal, orthorhombic, monoclinic, triclinic/trigonal, and twins. Some have been carefully sanded to represent natural curvature of face edges. Because each individual model is unique, the length varies from 3 to 7 centimeters, the width varies from 2 to 7 centimeters, and each has a unique weight. Some have identification numbers carved into them, which pertains to their original kit number given by the manufacturer. Some have hand written numbers in black ink on their flat faces, which identify the name of the crystal they represent.

Functional Description

These wooden crystal models were created as educational tools. The intent is to aid in the naming and identification of crystals by type. Each category of models is labeled in a separate box at the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum. These models are still in use today at Michigan Technological University.

Creator

Savannah de Luca

Date

c. 1910

Language

English

Type

Physical object

Identifier

none

Physical Dimensions

Length: 6 to 8cm Width: 4 to 7cm, variable

Materials

Pearwood

Maker

Dr. F. Kranz, Bonn, Germany

Inscriptions

Some have identification numbers cut into them pertaining to each kit they originally came from, some have writing in ink on the flat faces that identify the mineral they model.

Location

A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum

Citation

Savannah de Luca, “Wooden Crystal Models - Twins,” Michigan Tech Inventory of Historic Scientific Instruments, accessed March 28, 2024, https://ihsi.omeka.net/items/show/108.