First edition of an introduction to mineralogy by the American surgeon John Lee Comstock (1789-1858), who wrote textbooks on chemistry, natural history, geography and physiography for American schools. "Elements is a volume that was designed as a less expensive and weighty alternative to Parker Cleaveland's landmark Treatise. It was intended to be used as a textbook in the schools and higher seminars in America, which were instructing students in mineralogy. Therefore, Comstock begins the volume with the basics, including preliminary definitions of mineralogy and geology and the characters of minerals, and continues into slightly expanded definitions of external characters, color, luster, cleavage, transparancy, etc. The greater majority of the volume is then given over to the describing of specific mineral species" (Schuh).
Slightly foxed. Binding somewhat worn and stained. Otherwise in good condition, some of the bolts unopened. Schuh I, 1184; not in Ward.