Kornerupine is a rare and intriguing silicate mineral that captures the attention of mineralogists, gemologists, and collectors alike. Combining unusual chemistry, complex crystal structure, and striking optical effects, it occupies a special place among the more exotic gemstones and metamorphic minerals. This article explores its chemistry and crystal habits, the geological environments where it forms, […]
Kamaya Jasper captures attention with its rich colors and intricate patterns, a member of the broad family of jasper materials prized by collectors and artisans alike. More than a pretty stone, it is a piece of the Earth’s story — a compact record of silica-rich waters, mineral impurities, and geological pressures that together produced the
The Hemlo mine stands as one of the notable gold mining stories in Canada: a discovery that transformed a relatively remote region of northern Ontario into a focal point for exploration, extraction and local economic development. Located near the north shore of Lake Superior, the Hemlo deposits yielded significant quantities of precious metal, prompted rapid
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Kämmererite is an uncommon and visually striking member of the chlorite group — a chromium-bearing, pink to purple phyllosilicate that captures the attention of mineral collectors, gem enthusiasts, and geologists alike. Although it seldom appears in large masses, its distinct coloration and geological implications make it an object of study and admiration. This article explores
The Detour Lake Mine is one of Canada’s most prominent gold operations, notable for its size, remote setting, and role in the country’s mining sector. Located in northeastern Ontario, the project transformed a long-known mineral occurrence into a modern, large-scale open-pit mine that produces significant quantities of gold each year. This article describes where the
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Einsteinium is one of the more exotic entries in the periodic table: a synthetic, highly radioactive member of the late actinide series that exists only in trace amounts and in the laboratories that can produce and handle it. Its story links the dawn of the thermonuclear age, advanced nuclear reactors, and cutting-edge research in heavy-element
The prospect of extracting minerals from the deep seafloor has captured the attention of industry, governments and scientists. Yet beneath the waves lies a web of living systems that are poorly understood, exceptionally fragile and deeply interwoven with global processes. This article explores how seabed ecosystems complicate the ambition of large-scale deep-sea mining—highlighting ecological complexity,
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Jeremejevite is a striking and exceptionally rare mineral that has captured the attention of mineralogists, gemologists and collectors for more than a century. Although seldom seen outside specialized collections and a handful of gem markets, its delicate colors, prismatic crystals and intriguing chemistry make it an object of fascination. This article explores the mineral’s discovery
The Meliadine mine is a major modern gold operation in Canada’s Arctic, representing both a technical achievement in northern mining and a focal point for economic activity in Nunavut. Located within a remote, sensitive landscape, Meliadine combines underground mining methods, year-round processing, and extensive community partnerships. This article explores where the mine is located, what
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The name jacinth evokes images of warm, fiery color and ancient lore. In gemology the word most commonly refers to a reddish-orange variety of the mineral zircon, prized for its brilliance and historical resonance. This article explores the mineralogical nature of jacinth, where it forms and is mined, its uses in jewelry and industry, methods
