The conclusions drawn from this lab are numerous. The important will be mentioned. First, the shapes of lab-grown crystals mimics to a certain degree the shapes of crystals found in nature and dictated by the crystal systems. Second, physical properties of a certain type not found in non-crystalline materials (such as glass, with the exception of color and refraction of light) occur in lab-grown crystals as well as natural crystals. Crystals grown here exhibit color, birifringence, color change, polarization of light, cleavage, and the piezoelectric effect.

It has been a pleasure growing these crystals for use in this lab. Patience is rewarded, and with time, skill at growing crystals can be obtained by anyone with the proper materials and resources. The supersaturation method grew crystals the fastest (and often with acceptable results--Rochelle Salt and Alum). The evaporative method was lots slower, but when crystals did start forming (a week and a half after they were poured) their clarity and perfect shape was unmatched.

Please enjoy this report and follow the resource links that I provide on the next page.

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