We describe a method and a system for analysing a sample (12) using spectral polarimetry. The system comprises a light source, a first polarizer (22) having a first polarization angle for polarizing light from the light source, a second polarizer having a second polarization angle which is different to the first polarization angle, a birefringent component (20) which comprises a birefringent material, and a detector for receiving polarized light from the second polarizer (16). The birefringent component is positioned between the first and second polarizers and the sample is placed between the first polarizer and the second polarizer. The method comprises directing polarized light having a first polarization angle through a birefringent component which comprises a birefringent material, illuminating the sample with the light passing through the birefringent component, directing light through a polarizer having a second polarization angle which is different to the first polarization angle, and detecting the light transmitted through the polarizer.