Designed to be international in scope, this series sets out to provide students with short textbooks right across the field of earth sciences. The scope ranges from elementary general topics in geology through to more specialist studies. This text looks at reflected light microscopy which is a technique used extensively in the examination of metals and ore minerals. It is capable of identifying the substances present, recognizing textural relationships and any alteration phenomena - as well as assisting in the milling and processing of materials. It is intended to be an accessible and affordable text which explains the basic facts and is suitable for lecturers and research workers who require a surface knowledge of common ore minerals and for undergraduates and postgraduates studying all courses involving the study of ore minerals.