Sand, Kaanapali Beach Strandline

Darkfield Dispersion staining resulted in most of the particles turning blue, one showing magenta. In this mounting medium, Cargille 1.704 MM, indicates a beta refractive index of 1.697. That is in the range of the chrysolite form of olivine. the dark particles are basalt.

Transmitted Linear Polarized Light, Darkfield Dispersion Staining Illumination Mounted in 1.704 Refractive Index Medium

A beach strandline is a region of dense material that is concentrated in a narrow band on the beach. This band is often darker in color than the rest of the beach because the minerals that have a higher density tend to be more highly colored. (Click here for more images of Ocean Sands) (Click here for more images of Sand in general)