Investigating the Troost Mineral Collection: Building Partnerships Between Academia and Museums
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Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

Fall 10-1-2026

Abstract

Throughout the course of his life, prominent geologist Gerard Troost amassed an impressive collection of around 14,000 meticulously documented mineral and rock specimens. Today, about 6,500 of those reside in the Indiana State Museum where deteriorating labels have caused many to be separated from their original catalog numbers. This study examines a subset of 12 mineral specimens from the Troost mineral collection. To identify the samples and reconnect them to their historical records, we utilized traditional observations and portable X-Ray Fluorescence (pXRF) spectroscopy housed in the Dept. of Geology & Environmental Geoscience at DePauw. Each specimen was accompanied by a label containing a preliminary mineral identification, which we evaluated and, where necessary, revised based on our observations and geochemical analyses. Our work identified mostly sulfide and antimonide minerals, including bournonite, pyrargyrite, tetrahedrite, stibnite, enargite, erythrite, cinnabar, chalcocite, pyrite, arsenopyrite, sphalerite, and jamesonite. Several specimens contain more complex mineral assemblages that also include azurite, quartz, fluorite, wolframite, calcite, and barite. The pXRF analyses provided elemental compositions that helped characterize the specimens and confirm their mineral identities, allowing us to reconnect them to their historical catalog numbers. In a few cases, our results disagreed with the samples original identification, allowing us to provide new information about the samples that will be useful to the Museum's efforts. These findings underscore the importance of preserving and accurately identifying historical geological collections such as the Troost Collection. Beyond safeguarding the legacy of the collection, this work demonstrates how geoscience can reveal the composition, significance, and potential impacts of the Earth materials that shape our world. Collections such as Troost’s provide valuable opportunities for museums and universities to promote geoscience education and public engagement while connecting historical specimens to contemporary issues. Many of the minerals examined contain elements that are important to modern technology or that may pose environmental and public-health concerns, including mercury, arsenic, and antimony. Accurate identification and documentation of these materials therefore not only strengthens the scientific value and accessibility of historical collections but also helps illustrate the relevance of Earth materials to resource use, environmental stewardship, and sustainability.

Department

DePauw Department of Geology & Environmental Geoscience

Project Mentor

Ken Brown

Investigating the Troost Mineral Collection: Building Partnerships Between Academia and Museums

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