55 INTRODUCTION. 



correctly applied to denote organic remains, found imbedded in the 

 earth. 



. 2. DIFFERENT KINDS OF KNOWLEDGE RELATING TO 

 MINERALS. 



MINERALS may be studied as so many different objects 

 with a view to their recognition : this kind of information is 

 denominated Mineralogy. Minerals may be studied again, 

 with a view to learn their composition, or their chemical 

 relations : this knowledge forms a part of Chemistry. They 

 may be studied also for the purpose of elucidating the gen- 

 eral structure and arrangements of the earth : this pertains 

 to Geology. They may be studied as respects their dis- 

 tribution over the face of the earth : this is a branch of 

 Physical Geography. Finally, they may be studied with 

 regard to tlftir applications to the arts: this is a part of 

 Economy. 



The relations which exist between the different kinds of knowl- 

 edge just enumerated are very important. Mineralogy may indeed 

 be said to be independent of all the other sciences which relate to 

 minerals, having nothing to perform except their determination, and 

 the description of their natural properties. But, Chemistry requires 

 the information which it is the business of Mineralogy to supply at 

 the commencement of its inquiries concerning these bodies, in order 

 to designate the objects about which its peculiar researches are em- 

 ployed. Geology in like manner presupposes a considerable ac- 

 quaintance with Mineralogy, for it is impossible for mountain 

 masses to be distinguished except from a mineralogical knowledge 

 of their ingredients; and Economy cannot avail itself of sub- 

 stances w r hich it is unable to recognize, or Geography indicate the 

 distribution of objects who^o names are unknown. Mineralogy 

 enables us to apply to minerals whatever is taught in other sciences, 

 by determining the objects treated of by them ; and its true value 

 becomes apparent, if we reflect that whatever knowledge we may 

 possess concerning minerals, it is little better than useless, if we 



