FIRST FLOOR. 
55 
Coal (41a), in most of its varieties, gives structural evidence 
of its vegetable origin : its chemical composition depends on the 
more or less complete change which has taken place, and is thus 
not so definite as in the preceding minerals. In the variety 
called anthracite all traces of the original organised structure 
have disappeared. 
Amber (42c), in ancient times regarded as one of the precious 
stones, is likewise of vegetable origin. It is a fossilised resin, 
chiefly derived from trees allied to the existing pines : its 
originally viscous condition is sufficiently proved by the insects 
which are sometimes found enclosed in it. 
In the Pavilion at the east end of the gallery the visitor will Larger 
find many specimens which, owing to their size, cannot be ^ecinTens 
satisfactorily exhibited in the table-cases. 
Of these we may specially call attention to the groups of 
British and Indian minerals in the centre of the long wall-case, 
and to the specimens of Stibnite, Galena, and Jade on separate 
tables : also the large specimen of gypsum or selenite, presented 
by the late Prince Consort, which, with some fine illustrations of 
calcite, is exhibited in a special case. 
The four table-cases in the windows contain : — (1) a series Rocks, 
illustrating the various kinds of rocks, (2) specimens of the 
rocks met with in cutting the St. Gothard Tunnel, (3) a series of 
worked articles, and (4) specimens arranged by Professor Euskin 
to illustrate some varieties of Silica.* 
The most important feature of the Pavilion is the Collection Meteorites, 
of Meteorites,! of which the smaller specimens are shown in the 
four central cases. 
The fall of masses of stone and iron from the sky, though 
observed again and again since the most remote ages, was very 
rarely credited by anyone beside the spectators themselves ; and 
till the beginning of this century no attempt to collect such 
specimens for examination and comparison was made. In the 
special guide it is shown how evidence of the actual fall of such 
bodies at length became irresistible, and a description is given 
* A Descriptive Catalogue of the specimens of Native Silica has heeii 
prepared by Prof. Ruskin, and can be obtained of the attendant in the 
gallery. Price one shilling. 
t Sec 'An Introduction to tiic Studv of Meteorites, with a List of the 
Meteorites reprcseutod in the (Jollcctioru' Price twopence. 
