Short Description
The significance of the mineral collection of the Natural History Museum Vienna lies in their rich content of objects from occurrences within the former area of the Austrian-Hungarian Monarchy and of the Alps. However, the collection also represents many "classic" deposits of Germany, Russia, Great Britain, Italy and other countries, collecting is worlwide.
Todays' focus is mainly on Alpine-type mineral assemblage (Alps and alpinotype areas), selected pegmatite assemblages (e.g., Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nepal), documentation of new mineral findings and the completion of mineral systematics. Only a small part of the collection is on display. The mineral collection, shown to the public in four halls, is a systematic collection that has grown over time. Special topics shown: World of crystals (what is a crystal? what is a mineral and which properties do minerals have), evolution of minerals, minerals from Austria, how do rocks form, natural radiation (natural radioactivity and luminescence of minerals).
Contact Person
Priv.-Doz. Dr. Uwe Kolitsch
Research Services
Determination of minerals, gemstones, crystalline materials, ore minerals and handicrafts made of stone materials (inc. artefacts made of stone),... and expert opinions possible on request for a fee.
Assistance with historical research on certain objects and persons in connection with the mineral collection.
Methods & Expertise for Research Infrastructure
The employees of the department of mineralogy and petrography have expertise in the determination of minerals. A large variety of analytical methods are used. They also have special expertise in the historical aspects of mineral and ore localities and the practical use of mineral raw materials.
Allocation to research infrastructure
Mineralogisch-Petrographische Abteilung, Naturhistorisches Museum Wien