The spiral forms of ammonites have fascinated scientists, collectors and artists for centuries. These extinct marine mollusks left behind an extraordinary fossil record that tells a story of evolution, extinction and the dynamics of ancient seas. This article explores where ammonites are found, their practical and scientific applications, and a range of intriguing aspects from […]
Manganese is a transition metal with a wide range of roles across industry, geology, biology, and environmental systems. Its versatility arises from multiple stable oxidation states and its ability to form a diverse set of compounds. The following text explores where manganese is found, how it is extracted and used, its importance to living organisms,
The global push toward decarbonization, digitalization and electrification has placed unprecedented demand on a group of elements known as critical minerals. These resources—ranging from lithium, cobalt and nickel to rare earth elements and graphite—are essential for batteries, wind turbines, electric vehicles and high-tech applications. Developing these resources in a way that preserves ecological integrity, protects
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The term Amazonian Jade evokes a lush image of deep green stones unearthed from the tropical belts of South America, an intersection of geology, culture and commerce. While the label is not always precise in strict mineralogical terms, it has come to describe a group of green, jade-like materials — from genuine jade varieties to
The Bailadila iron ore region is one of India’s most prominent and historically significant mining areas. Located in the rugged, forested hills of central India, it has supplied high-quality ore to domestic steelmakers and international markets for decades. This article explores the mine’s location and geology, the resources extracted, its economic role, and a selection
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Allanite is an intriguing and often overlooked member of the epidote group of minerals. It occupies a distinctive niche at the intersection of mineralogy, economic geology and geochronology because of its capacity to host significant amounts of rare-earth elements and radioactive elements such as thorium and uranium. Frequently found as an accessory mineral in a
The Dalli-Rajhara mines, set in the undulating terrain of central India, represent a significant chapter in the country’s industrial narrative. These iron ore deposits have supplied raw material to major steel works and sustained regional economies for decades. The following article examines the mine’s location, the geology and mineralogy of the deposits, the methods of
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The mineral known as alexandrite has captured the imagination of gem lovers, scientists and collectors for nearly two centuries. Famous for its dramatic and often mysterious optical behavior, this relatively rare form of chrysoberyl offers a natural spectacle: under daylight it commonly appears greenish, while in incandescent light it can look reddish. That striking color-change
The Ramagundam mine complex is one of the most important coal-producing areas in southern India. Located in the state of Telangana, the mine has played a pivotal role in powering regional industry and supplying fuel to thermal power plants for decades. This article explores where Ramagundam is situated, what is extracted there, its economic significance,
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Chromium is a transition element that has shaped modern industry, materials science and even art. Its distinct physical and chemical properties make it indispensable in a wide range of applications, while some of its compounds have inspired both admiration for their vivid colors and concern because of their toxicity. This article explores where chromium is
