Carbon, in its crystalline form as diamond, has many outstanding physical properties that make it an attractive mineral. Apart from its commercial value as a gemstone, it has also fascinated scientists for centuries. Diamonds and sapphires have similar physical properties.
This monograph includes essential details on crystal structure and growth, the mechanical, thermal, and optical properties, and light scattering of diamond and sapphire and sapphire lasers. With minimal mathematical formulas/equations, this monograph is an interesting presentation of the subject matter here. The references are provided at the end and an index is included.
Review by Reva Garg, Institute of Physics, University of Brasilia, Brazil.
The opinions expressed in the book review section are those of the reviewer and do not necessarily reflect those of OPN or OSA.