EARTH SC 2MM3

Gemstones: Origins and Characteristics

Calendar Description

An examination of gemstones focusing on their geologic origin, mineralogy, colour, chemistry, economic value and historical significance.

Three lectures; one term
Prerequisite: One of EARTH SC 1G03, ENVIR SC 1G03; ISCI 1A24 and registration in Level II or above
 
 
Antirequisite(s): GEO 2MM3

 

Time/Term Offered: Term One Fall 2011-12

Instructor: Dr. Jack Rink
Room: General Science Building Rm. 225
Tel:(905) 525.9149 x20148
Email: rinkwj@mcmaster.ca
Office hours: TBA

Teaching Assistant:

TBA

 

Course Outline (Formerly GEO 2MM3) Avenue to Learn

Introduction:

Gemstones form in a variety of different earth environments and are a major economic resource for many nations. The discovery of major diamond deposits in Canada through clever prospecting techniques, including airborne geophysical methods and tracer minerals in streams, have put Canada on the world diamond map. In this course you will learn about how gemstones form, their internal chemistry, coloration, their worldwide occurrence, and the tenets of their economic value. You will learn about the differences between natural, synthetic and simulated gems, and how gemmologists distinguish among them. From cradle to recycled heirlooms, gemstones serve in many important socio-cultural roles, and have been important to humans since the dawn of humanity. We will trace the history of their use and learn important aspects of how to procure them in the modern context. Please read about the topics we will cover elsewhere in this site.

Lecture/Labs:

Three one hour lectures per week
Tue Wed 3:30-4:20 Room BSB B103
Fridays starting Sept 16: 3:30-4:20 Room BSB 345 (Laboratory Classroom)

Required Text Books/Course materials:

Read, P.G. Gemmology. Butterworth/Heinemann, London.

Please see reading list in the Course Outline

Evaluation:

Test 1: 35% In Class Wednesday October 5
Test 2: 35% In Class Tuesday November 8
Test 3: 25% ( In Class Friday November 25 : NOT DURING FINAL EXAMS)

Academic Dishonesty

Academic dishonesty consists of misrepresentation by deception or by other fraudulent means and can result in serious consequences, e.g. the grade of zero on an assignment, loss of credit with a notation on the transcript (notation reads: “Grade of F assigned for academic dishonesty”), and/or suspension or expulsion from the university.

The following illustrates only three forms of academic dishonesty:

  • Plagiarism, e.g. the submission of work that is not one’s own or for which other credit has been obtained.

  • Improper collaboration in group work.

  • Copying or using unauthorized aids in tests and examinations.

It is your responsibility to understand what constitutes academic dishonesty. For information on the various kinds of academic dishonesty please refer to the Academic Integrity Policy, located at http://www.mcmaster.ca/policy/Students-AcademicStudies/AcademicIntegrity.pdf

The University reserves the right to change any aspect of this course outline.

The instructor and university reserve the right to modify elements of the course during the term. The university may change the dates and deadlines for any or all courses in extreme circumstances. If either type of modification becomes necessary, reasonable notice and communication with the students will be given with explanation and the opportunity to comment on changes. It is the responsibility of the student to check their McMaster email and course websites weekly during the term and to note any changes.