When atoms are exposed to a high voltage beam of electrons in a vacuum they emitt X-rays. Each type of atom emits X-rays of specific voltages. An Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer (EDS or EDX) records and displays emitted X-ray voltages. The most common type of display is an XY plot with X-ray voltage on the X axis and total X-ray counts on the Y axis. Various software programmes exist to crunch the data from such plots, called X-ray spectrums, into weight percent and/or mole percent calculations. Such analyses are called Semi-Quantitative or Quantitative analyses depending on their accuracy. A skilled EDS operator can judge the relative proportions of the elements present simply by eyeballing the X-ray spectrum. Such an analysis is called a Qualitative analysis. An experienced mineralogist can often translate such an analysis into a mineral identification, or at the very least, a crude mineral formula.

I offer Qualitative EDS analysis, complete with crude formula and possible species identification, for all elements heavier than Neon for $5US/grain. For example; if a customers' grain was an impure diopside I would record it as: Si>Ca~=Mg>>Fe. Approximate formula: Ca(Mg,Fe)Si2. Possible identification: Diopside. A definitive mineral identification requires knowledge of both chemistry and internal crystal structure. EDS can only give chemistry therefore identifications based solely on EDS can never be more than best guesses. Payment can be made with cash, cheque, money order or fine mineral specimens. Interested parties should contact me by E-mail for further details.