Assayer's Scale/Apothecary Balance
Title
Assayer's Scale/Apothecary Balance
Subject
Chemistry; Metallurgy; Pharmacology
Description
Physical Description: A rectangular oak case with glass panels stands on adjustable metal feet. The front page of the case is internally counterweighted to be lifted vertically by a metal handle. Inside the case is a brass beam balance with two pans suspended from curved wires. At the base of the stand is a white metal plate with horizontal markings. In front of the balance is a vertical black rod with incremental markings denoted 'milligrams'. The pans hold circular, curved glass disks.
Functional Description: Used to weight an initial sample of crushed ore to conduct an assay. The box prevents dust from accumulating and affecting accuracy of the balance, as well as restrict air flow when the assay is in process. Known standard weights would be placed in the left pan and compared to the weight of the sample in the right. Adjustable feet allowed accurate leveling of the device.
Functional Description: Used to weight an initial sample of crushed ore to conduct an assay. The box prevents dust from accumulating and affecting accuracy of the balance, as well as restrict air flow when the assay is in process. Known standard weights would be placed in the left pan and compared to the weight of the sample in the right. Adjustable feet allowed accurate leveling of the device.
Creator
Larissa Harris; Karen Oppliger
Date
c. 1920
Language
English
Type
Physical Object
Identifier
MTMC 9995
Coverage
USA (Chicago)
Physical Dimensions
Case-420x370x220 mm
Scale-190x280 mm
Glass disks-75mm diameter
Scale-190x280 mm
Glass disks-75mm diameter
Materials
Case-Oak and glass, metal feet and handle
Scale-brass, glass disks
Scale-brass, glass disks
Maker
Sargent and Co., Chicago
Inscriptions
SARGENT | E.H. Sargent and Company | 155 East Superior St Chicago
Location
Chemical Sciences and Engineering, 607 E
Bibliography
Robb, Marlene. "Scales and Balances from the Collection." Newsletter, Orbost and District Historical Society, July 2017.
Worthpoint. "E.H. Sargent Analytical Balance Scale." https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/h-sargent-analytical-balance-scale-253748262
Worthpoint. "E.H. Sargent Analytical Balance Scale." https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/h-sargent-analytical-balance-scale-253748262
Collection
Citation
Larissa Harris; Karen Oppliger, “Assayer's Scale/Apothecary Balance,” Michigan Tech Inventory of Historic Scientific Instruments, accessed March 29, 2024, https://ihsi.omeka.net/items/show/189.