Assayer's Scale/Apothecary Balance

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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.

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

Materials

Case-Oak and glass, metal feet and handle
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

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.