Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

This new volume provides a clearly illustrated introduction to the basic concepts of crystallography. Readers will find a description of simple crystal structures with an explanation of how more complex structures can be considered in terms of these basic units. Simple two-dimensional patterns are used to introduce the concepts of the lattice and the motif, as well as the ideas of symmetry. Three-dimensional patterns are covered with a discussion of the 14 Bravais lattices, and the division of crystals into seven systems. The description of crystal structures in terms of Miller indices and zone axis symbols is examined, and the concept of the reciprocal lattice is explained. Useful exercises are provided at the end of every chapter, and useful geometric relationships are summarized in an appendix. Many suggestions for further reading are included.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• 1 Crystals and Crystal Structures
• 2 Two-Dimensional Patterns, Lattices, and Symmetry
• 3 Bravais Lattices and Crystal Systems
• 4 Crystal Symmetry, Point Groups, and Crystal Structures
• The External Symmetry of Crystals
• 5 Describing Lattice Planes and Directions in Crystals
• Miller Indices and Zone Axis Symbols
• 6 The Reciprocal Lattice
• Appendices

Reviews provided by Syndetics

CHOICE Review

This is a good book: it is well produced, free of errors, covers the fundamentals of crystallography, has several useful appendixes and end-of-chapter problems, and is inexpensive. However, it is superfluous. One would think that, in this handbook series, subjects of greatest interest to microscopists would be discussed. The subjects treated in this volume relate to internal crystal structure (e.g., crystal systems, symmetry groups, and reciprocal lattices) and are of interest to solid-state scientists. However, for those readers there are numerous other excellent introductory books on the subject, in addition to the many fine chapters found in metallurgy and physical chemistry textbooks. Hammond's book lacks discussion of topics of use to microscopists--e.g., morphology and external crystal shapes (treated in F.C. Phillips's Introduction to Crystallography, 4th ed., CH, Oct'72) or crystal defects (covered in A. Kelly and G.W. Groves's Crystallography and Crystal Defects, 1970). Its unique feature is an eight-page appendix containing bibliographic notes about 21 well-known persons in crystallography. Nearly all the resource addresses are in England. If no other texts on crystallography are available, this will make a good, basic introductory text. -R. Rudman, Adelphi University