When minerals, rocks, and fossils cannot be accurately identified by macroscopic observation and testing, thin section slides can reveal the composition and structure of the specimens on a microscopic level.

Thin section slides are precisely ground to a thickness of 0.03 mm across the entire specimen area. Mineral and rock thin sections are mounted on 27 x 46 mm microscope slides, and protected by a glass coverslip. All thin section slides are labeled for reference.

Classic North American Rock Thin Sections

Our finest thin sections have been a classroom standard for over 40 years. When purchased individually, each 27 x 46 mm slide is packaged as an Explano-Mount, with a study sheet, in a durable plastic sleeve. In addition, you can now order matching hand specimens for each thin section.