Dioptase is a strikingly colored copper mineral prized by mineralogists, gem cutters, and collectors for its vivid green to bluish-green crystals. Though not commonly used in mainstream industry due to its relative softness and scarcity, dioptase occupies an important niche in the world of decorative stones, mineralogical study, and cultural lore. In the following sections […]
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The Ahafo mine is one of West Africa’s prominent gold-producing operations and an important part of Ghana’s modern mining landscape. This article examines where the mine is located, the geology and ores it exploits, how it operates, its economic significance for local and national stakeholders, and several noteworthy technical, environmental and social aspects that make
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Celestite is a striking and scientifically important mineral known for its often delicate sky-blue crystals and its role as the principal ore of strontium. Beyond its visual appeal, celestite is tied to a variety of industrial, geological and cultural uses — from serving as a source for strontium chemicals used in ceramics and pyrotechnics to
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The Tarkwa mining complex, set in the forested lowlands of southwestern Ghana, is one of the country’s most famous and productive gold-producing areas. Its combination of large-scale open pits, processing plants, and a long mining history make it a focal point for discussions about resource-driven development, environmental management, and the evolving technologies of modern gold
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The Obuasi Mine sits at the heart of Ghana’s historic Ashanti gold belt and has been a keystone of the country’s mining identity for more than a century. This article examines where the mine is located, what it produces, the ways it influences the local and national economy, and several aspects that make Obuasi particularly
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Gypsum is a versatile and widely distributed mineral whose presence shapes landscapes, building practices, and industrial processes around the world. Known both for its delicate, glassy crystals and its practical uses in construction and agriculture, gypsum bridges geology and everyday life. This article explores where gypsum forms and occurs, how it is extracted and processed,
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Palladium is one of the most intriguing and versatile elements in the periodic table. As a member of the platinum group metals, it combines unusual chemical behavior with wide-ranging industrial uses that connect geology, chemistry, automotive engineering, electronics, and even jewelry. This article explores where palladium is found, how it is applied across modern technologies,
The global scramble for critical minerals has prompted a powerful resurgence of mineral nationalism, a policy stance in which states reassert control over their geological resources to maximize domestic benefit. This trend is reshaping trade flows, investment patterns and industrial strategies across continents. As governments pursue policies that emphasize sovereignty, local value creation and strategic
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Selenite is a remarkable and often misunderstood variety of the common mineral gypsum. Recognizable for its glassy, often transparent crystals and its delicate, silky luster, selenite captures attention both in scientific contexts and among collectors, artists, and those interested in metaphysical properties. This article explores its mineralogical characteristics, natural occurrences, practical applications, cultural significance, and
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The name Tongon evokes one of the more important modern mining operations in West Africa. Located in the northern reaches of the country commonly known in English as the Ivory Coast (Côte d’Ivoire), the Tongon operation is a gold-producing mine that has played a notable role in regional development, government revenue and the local economy.
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