Review of Handbook of Mineralogy. III. Halides, Hydroxides, Oxides

From Rocks & Minerals (1998) 73, 137

by Robert B. Cook, Auburn University

Like the first two volumes in this series, volume 3 of the Handbook of Mineralogy is an invaluable reference work, this time on essentially all of the known halides, hydroxides, oxides, and related species (antimonates, antimonites, arsenites, carbides, nitrides, phosphides, silicides, and V-oxysalts) as they were known through 1996. The data contained within this thick volume were gleaned from all major international mineralogical journals. New species descriptions and crystal structure determinations abstracted in the New Mineral Names section of the American Mineralogist during 1996 and 1997, and for which complete data were given, are also included. Many less-available references were accessed through the use of the U.S. Geological Survey Ford-Fleischer File. The GEOREF database of the American Geological Institute and the GEOBASE database of Elsevier Science, Ltd., were utilized toward the broadest possible search of recent literature. Even more impressive is the fact that in most instances original literature was examined through libraries at the University of Arizona, Stanford, and Ohio State University, as well as the U.S. Geological Survey libraries at Menlo Park, Denver, and Reston. In other words, the opportunity for the perpetuation of misquoted information has been reduced to near zero.

As in the first two volumes, the minerals are arranged in alphabetical order, each on a single page that contains enough data to completely characterize the species for most purposes. This information includes the mineral’s name, chemical formula, crystal system, point group, habit, twinning, cleavage, fracture, tenacity, hardness, (Mohs and Vickers), density (measured and calculated), optical properties, streak, luster, unit cell parameters, partial X-ray powder data, various aspects of the mineral’s chemistry including analyses, and geological occurrences and locality data. Other information includes the origin of the mineral’s name, the location of type material, and important literature references for the species.

Again, as with the first two volumes, the amount of information presented in this volume is almost overwhelming. Many of the species described are not well known to the average collector, and wading through this monumental work forces a rather steep learning curve on the reader. The editorial perfection of this volume is equal to the first two, reflecting an almost incomprehensible attention to detail. A spot check of specific data supports the impression of unusual accuracy in information condensation, abstraction, and transfer. I could not find a significant point of criticism, despite the fact that ice is included, making it the most widely produced synthetic material.

The authors have carried the mineralogical community another step closer to having available a comprehensive, systematic work covering essentially all minerals known at the time of publication. The possible weaknesses are few. There could be photographs, crystal drawings, and more locality information; however, they would not add markedly to these volumes. They are monumental reference works and as such contain more than adequate literature citations to guide the reader toward whatever additional information is desired. They could be cheaper, but I have had a hard time lately finding any book I thought was a steal. For better or worse, if you desire a fine set of comprehensive mineralogical works, each volume of Handbook of Mineralogy is a must. I anxiously await volume 4 on arsenates, phosphates, uranates, and vanadates.