The introduction of translator
"Mineral" as a word is derived from the following terms ;"Mna" in Greek and its synonym in Latin is "Mina" which means "cavity , hole or mineral ".The application of it refers to middle ages . In mineralogy, in addition to appearance other physical and chemical properties, internal structure, environment, occurrence and uses of minerals are studied. Man discovered and studied minerals from ancient time, therefore, familiarity with this branch of science and its application has a significant role in the human-being civilization is called "Stone Age".
In accordance with the German legends of 12 th century, pearls, this beautiful so-called minerals which were being collected by people of time in the North sea were used as talisman.
Phoenicians, who were famous for the navigation and business, brought ornamental and valuable minerals such as Siberian emerald and the amber of southern part of Baltic Sea to their own territory. In this way they have launched a business with other countries. Indian diamond with long and brilliant background, and Lazurite which has been discovered by Egyptians for the first time has an important contribution for the mineralogy history.
Usage of minerals to cure patients are available from the papyrus scripts of 1600 B.C. The Greek, for the first time, were studied minerals scientifically. Magnetic property of minerals was discovered by Talas de Milet in 485 B.C. Other scientists such as Aristotle (322-384 B.C.),Galen (131-201 B.C.) and Avicenna (970-1037), who are the authors of the book concerning minerals, are famous scientists in mineralogy. Abureyhan-e-Birooni (973-1048) has presented his points of view regarding the "specific gravity" of minerals, and Zakaria-e-Razi has also explained the chemical properties of minerals with regard to their application in pharmacy**.
Various European scientists have done valuable studies and published nice materials on crystallography, rocks and minerals which are very important in geological science history.
Translation of "Minerals Grand Dictionary" from the French language in form of CD is presented to fans including a collection of beautiful minerals of museum of Poly-technic College (Prague National Museum) and also Charles Natural Science Faculty of Czech and Slovakia. Although the beautiful illustrations of each mineral are shown on the screen of monitor by this CD, however, sufficient information concerning physical, chemical and practical properties, occurrence, ete. Can be presented to the researchers, quickly.
Hope, parallel to the efforts of the colleagues and other geological experts, this can act as a step toward further familiarity with mineralogy.
The following people are truly acknowledged;
-The Geological Survey of Iran authorities for their collaborations and assistances, particularly, the honorable General Director.
-Ms. Simin Mehdi-Zadeh Tehrani for her indefatigable efforts in computerized works. -Students; Ms.Shahrzad Abutorab, Mr.Shahab Varkouhi and Mohsen Allameh for their translation and arrangement of materials.
-Technical personnel and experts of Payvand software group for their proficiency and initiative in the usage of information about minerals and preparation of this high quality collection.
At last, it is important to note when the application of some foreign statements was compulsory in the text, English words and expressions were used, otherwise French words were sufficient.
In spite of all the efforts for translation and preparation of this book, there is no hesitation that some errors may be found in the text and its presentation. I will be very grateful if I receive the critical points of view from colleagues experts to rectify the probable errors in future.
Tehran,
Ordibehesht 1381,
(May 2002)
Dr.Kh.Khosro Tehrani |
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