II.—On the Modification of the Doubly Refracting and Physical Structure of Topaz, by Elastic Forces emanating from Minute Cavities

Extract

While examining, in polarised light, the form and structure of the numerous crystals which I had discovered in the fluid cavities of Topaz, my attention was particularly called to certain optical phenomena exhibited in other parts of the specimen. These phenomena, when first presented to me, were very indefinite in their character, and very imperfectly developed; but after a diligent examination of nearly 900 specimens of topaz, I succeeded in obtaining the most satisfactory exhibition of them under various forms, and in various degrees of intensity.