Nicol prism

Description

Nicol prism made of Iceland spar, housed in cork frame for mounting in microscopes, by Watkins of London, early 19th century

Museum reference

T.1936.106

Collection

History of Science

Object name

Nicol prism

Production information

Watkins
England, Northern Europe

Date

19th century

Materials

Iceland spar, Cork

Associations

Eponym: Nicol

Exhibitions

• Enquire (08 Jul 2016)
  National Museum of Scotland

• Shaping Our World (29 Jul 2011 - 03 Aug 2014)
  National Museum of Scotland

References

Morrison-Low, A.D. & Christie, J.R.R. (eds.), Martyr of Science: Sir David Brewster 1781-1868. Edinburgh: 1984, pp 87-8

Groth, P., The Optical Properties of Crystals. New York: 1910. pp 74-80

On display

national museum of scotland »
level 5 »
science and technology, enquire