Pumpellyite is a lesser-known but scientifically valuable mineral that often appears as green, bladed or fibrous crystals in low-grade metamorphic rocks and altered volcanic terrains. Although it rarely reaches the public fame of quartz or feldspar, it plays a key role in the interpretation of metamorphic conditions and fluid-rock interactions. In this article I will […]
Psilomelane is a historical name applied to a group of hard, black, and often botryoidal manganese oxides. Though modern mineralogy has refined and split the material commonly called psilomelane into distinct species such as romanechite, cryptomelane and hollandite, the rock and ore known by that vernacular still appears in geological reports, museum labels and mining
The silver mines around Potosí have left an indelible mark on global history. Located high in the Andes, the mines once fed an empire and reshaped world commerce, society, and the environment. This article explores where they are, what was and is extracted there, their economic importance over centuries, and a number of compelling and
Potosí Mines – Bolivia – Silver (historic) Read More »
Flerovium occupies an unusual place at the edge of the periodic table: a superheavy, man-made element whose fleeting existence has opened windows onto nuclear structure, relativistic chemistry and the practical limits of element synthesis. Researchers study flerovium not because it has everyday uses, but because each atom produced is a high-value piece of experimental evidence
The vast mineral complex known as El Mutún sits at the center of conversations about Bolivia’s economic future. This article explores where the deposit is located, what is extracted there, its economic significance, and a number of intriguing technical, social and geopolitical aspects that make El Mutún noteworthy. Through geology, history, industry and local perspectives,
El Mutún – Bolivia – Iron ore Read More »
The San Cristóbal Mine sits high on the Andean plateau, a major source of mineral wealth for southwestern Bolivia and an important node in global supply chains for silver, zinc and lead. Its presence has reshaped local economies, generated heated debates about environmental stewardship, and illustrated how modern mining techniques can transform a remote mountain
San Cristóbal Mine – Bolivia – Silver/Zinc/Lead Read More »
Pseudomalachite is a compelling and often overlooked copper mineral that frequently fools casual observers and even collectors because of its striking resemblance to the more familiar malachite. Although it shares the same verdant palette, this mineral is chemically and structurally distinct, belonging to the family of copper phosphate hydroxides. Its study illuminates the diversity of
The rapid advancement of quantum technologies has transformed the landscape of computing, sensing, and secure communications. Alongside breakthroughs in qubit design and error correction, a quieter but equally critical challenge has emerged: sourcing the specialized materials that make high-performance quantum devices possible. This article examines the demand for quantum computing materials, the specific rare metals
Sourcing rare metals for quantum computing technologies Read More »
The Corocoro mine, set high on the Andean Altiplano, is one of Bolivia’s notable metal-producing localities. Known primarily for its copper-bearing ores, Corocoro has played roles in regional development, local employment and the broader mining history of the country. This article reviews the mine’s location, geological character, production and economic significance, environmental and social context,
Corocoro Mine – Bolivia – Copper Read More »
Proustite is a striking and historically significant mineral whose vivid red color has captivated mineralogists, gem cutters and collectors for nearly two centuries. While it is far too delicate and rare to serve as an everyday gemstone or industrial feedstock, proustite occupies an important place in the story of silver mining, mineral chemistry and the
