On the Mineralogy of Ceylon.— By Dr. Eudolph Gygax, 

 (Read May 22nd, 1847J 



I have on several occasions attempted to form a descriptive 

 Catalogue of the Minerals of Ceylon, but on each attempt met 

 with so many discouraging difficulties, that I had abandoned 

 the idea, until recently persuaded to return to the subject. 



The difficulties alluded to consisted chiefly in the want of 

 means of obtaining information relative to the various speci- 

 mens I have met with. Many descriptions have come into my 

 possession at various times ; but of their proper locality, 

 geological position, description of rock in which found, rarity 

 or abundance, I have been able to obtain but scanty informa- 

 tion. 



Nevertheless, I conceive, that something should be 

 attempted, even if only as a precursor to more fortunate labors, 

 and I accordingly prepared a list of such Minerals as I have 

 encountered since my arrival in the Island. It may afford 

 some satisfaction at having even this rough document, although 

 I must confess that it will but poorly illustrate this branch of 

 the Natural History of Ceylon. 



I purpose giving a short description of each mineral, 

 distinguishing such as I found myself from those found by 

 gentlemen in the interior who have presented them to me ; 

 shewing their geological situation, their crystalline forms, 

 &c, except in the cases of such as are found in all parts of the 

 world, and consequently very well known, such as Rock-crys- 



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