Who was the founder of mineralogy? The same 17th-century scientist who founded the modern sciences of geology and paleontology! Collectively, “Steno’s laws” are taught to every undergraduate student of geology – they form the foundation of the geological sciences. Andrew has put together a really interesting talk about this man whose meticulous scientific observations of the natural world led to such discoveries as the constancy of crystal angles for quartz, and the nature of striations found on pyrite crystals. Many of Steno’s other scientific accomplishments we now take for granted, precisely because they are considered so fundamental. There is a lot more to Andrew’s story; I’m sorry to miss the telling…but don’t you!

As usual, I will be in Arizona for the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, and cannot attend the February meeting. Dennis Murphy will introduce our speaker. Guests are most welcome at our meetings. Thisprogram will be great for folks of every age.