Crystallography –It’s all about symmetry

A key objective of the Section is to bring together expertise in crystallographic and mineralogical methods for investigating structure–property relationships. While X-ray diffraction enables the determination of crystal structures and phase compositions, a range of other techniques now also play an important role in comprehensive materials characterization, including electron microscopy and electron diffraction, neutron diffraction, vibrational spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and X-ray absorption spectroscopy. In situ methods allow materials to be studied under controlled conditions, for example at high temperatures or pressures. This provides direct insights into geologically relevant scenarios, such as the behaviour of minerals under upper-mantle conditions, as well as industrial processes such as high-temperature synthesis. Atomistic modelling, including density functional theory, can further contribute to a better understanding of structure–property relationships.

The DMG Section of Crystallography strives to connect crystallographic method development and applied mineralogical materials research. Within the DMG, there is a long-standing and close collaboration with the Section of Applied Mineralogy, reflected particularly in the organisation of joint section meetings and workshops. The Section also maintains links with other scientific societies, especially the German Crystallographic Society(DGK).

The DMG Sections of Crystallography and Applied Mineralogy traditionally organise a joint workshop, which takes place every spring in Bad Windsheim. The workshop provides early-career scientists in particular with a forum to present and discuss their research in an informal atmosphere, with the programme allowing ample time for discussions and exchange beyond the scientific sessions.

Since 2025, the workshop has been held in English and most recently attracted just over 30 participants. In addition, the Section actively contributes to the organisation of sessions on mineralogical and crystallographic topics at the DMG Annual Meetings and at the European Mineralogical Conference (EMC), which takes place every four years.