Laser spot on a Pyrite sample

Raman spectroscopy can be used to identify, with a minimum of preparation, minerals, glasses and fluids in geological samples [LST]. We therefore present a selection of Raman spectra of minerals representative of some major mineral groups [use search engine]. The spectra provide the main vibrational fingerprints of each main mineral group and related minerals. We report here more recent references and references for Raman studies carried out at high-pressures and high-temperatures are also mentionned. Most of the spectra were recorded on a XY ©DILOR Raman microspectrometer equipped with a CCD detector [Picture]. The spectrometer was used in backscattering geometry. The laser beam (488 or 514.5 nm exciting lines of a Spectra Physics® Ar⁺ laser) was focussed through microscope objectives (x50) down to a 2 micrometer spot on sample and the backscattered light was collected through the same objective.
Even though polarization effects are minimized, the intensity of the Raman modes can be sensitive to crystal orientation.

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Gilles.Montagnac@ens-lyon.fr