7:30 PM Presentation
This presentation will survey a number of common rock-forming minerals that are frequently encountered in soil samples. The distinguishing optical and morphological features necessary to identify each mineral will be discussed. The identifying features will be limited to those observable in grain mounts (no discussion of thin sections or petrography will be included). Numerous examples of each mineral from real world samples will be used to illustrate the important mineral properties. Members are welcome to bring their own samples to look at with the speaker after the talk (time permitting).

Bio Sketch

Andrew Bowen has a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Virginia and an M.S. in Forensic Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He worked as a research microscopist and instructor at the McCrone Research Institute from 2001 until 2004, and is currently employed as a forensic microscopist for Stoney Forensic, Inc. He continues to teach at the McCrone Research Institute as an adjunct instructor.