mineraloog

A mineraloog, often anglicized as mineralogist, is a scientist who studies minerals—the inorganic, crystalline substances that make up most rocks and many other materials. The discipline covers the identification, description, and classification of minerals, as well as their formation, occurrence, and practical uses. Mineralogists work with samples from natural environments, museums, laboratories, and the field.

Key areas of study include mineral identification, crystal structure, physical properties (such as hardness, cleavage, and density), and chemical composition. Subfields commonly encountered are optical mineralogy, which uses polarized light microscopy to examine mineral grains; crystallography, which analyzes crystal lattices; and mineral chemistry and petrology, which explore chemical processes and rock-forming environments. Analytical techniques frequently employed include X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, infrared and Raman spectroscopy, and quantitative chemical analysis. Classification systems such as the Mohs scale for hardness and the Dana and Strunz schemes for mineral groups are used to organize minerals.

Applications of mineralogy span several sectors. In geology and mining, mineralogists assess ore deposits and resource potential. In materials science, they contribute to the understanding of minerals as functional materials. In environmental science, they help trace pollution, soil formation, and sediment transport. Museums and education also rely on mineralogists for cataloging, conservation, and public outreach.

Education typically involves a degree in geology or earth sciences, with specialization in mineralogy or crystallography. Higher degrees (MSc, PhD) are common for research and academic positions. The field has evolved from early natural history cataloging to a modern, technically driven science integral to earth sciences and related disciplines.