Francium is one of the most elusive and intriguing elements on the periodic table. As the heaviest naturally occurring member of the alkali metal column, it attracts attention far more for its rarity and extreme radioactivity than for any practical utility. This article explores where francium is found, what makes its chemistry and nuclear behavior […]
The global conversation about minerals essential for modern technology increasingly centers on the often-misunderstood category known as rare earths. Despite their name, these elements are relatively abundant in the Earth’s crust, yet their extraction, processing, and distribution present complex challenges. This article examines the difference between reported global reserves and the projections frequently cited by
Global reserves of rare earths: reality vs projections Read More »
The Ruashi Mine, located in the mineral-rich region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, is an important source of base metals that feed global industries. Known primarily for its production of copper and cobalt, Ruashi plays a role in modern technologies from electrical wiring to rechargeable batteries. This article examines where Ruashi is located,
Ruashi Mine – DR Congo – Copper/Cobalt Read More »
The Kamoto Mine is one of the most prominent and strategically important mining operations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Located in the heart of the African copper and cobalt belt, it has played a central role in supplying critical industrial metals to global markets. This article examines where the mine is located, what
Kamoto Mine – DR Congo – Copper Read More »
The Shinkolobwe mine, located in southeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), is one of the most notorious and historically significant mineral sites of the 20th century. Renowned for producing extraordinarily rich deposits of uranium and associated minerals, the mine played an outsized role in global geopolitics, colonial economics, and the development of nuclear
Shinkolobwe Mine – DR Congo – Uranium (historic) Read More »
Polonium occupies a striking and sometimes unsettling place in the periodic table and in modern history. This rare element is notable for its intense radioactivity, a variety of isotopes with differing lifetimes, and its associations with both useful niche technologies and high-profile incidents that highlight the dangers of uncontrolled radioactive materials. The material that follows
Commodity supercycles reshape global markets in profound ways, and their effects on the prices of rare minerals are particularly significant. This article explores how extended periods of elevated commodity demand and disrupted supply dynamics transmit through the value chain, altering investment patterns, incentivizing innovation, and reshaping geopolitics. By examining the mechanisms that link broad commodity
How commodity supercycles influence rare mineral prices Read More »
The Kalumbila (commonly referred to as the Sentinel) Mine stands among the most important modern mining developments in Zambia. Located in the north-western part of the country, the operation has reshaped the local landscape, economy and labour market. This article describes where the mine is situated, what is extracted there, how the operation functions in
Kalumbila (Sentinel) Mine – Zambia – Copper Read More »
Hypersthene is a mineral that has captured the attention of geologists, gem enthusiasts, and planetary scientists alike. Though its name is less common in modern mineralogical nomenclature, hypersthene remains an important term for describing a specific group of orthopyroxenes distinguished by their chemical composition, optical behavior, and geological significance. This article explores where hypersthene is
The Kagem mine is one of the most important gemstone operations in Africa and a defining site for modern emerald production. Located in the mineral-rich region of Zambia, it has reshaped local economies, global supply chains, and the perception of Zambian gems on international markets. This article explores where Kagem is located, what is produced
Kagem Mine – Zambia – Emeralds Read More »
