Unakite is a striking, mottled stone that attracts collectors, lapidaries, and metaphysical enthusiasts alike with its mixture of **unakite**’s green and pink tones. Formed through the interplay of mineral alteration processes, it presents a visually rich texture that combines the glassy sparkle of **quartz** with the deep green of **epidote** and the warm pink of […]
The Lofdal project, situated in northwestern Namibia, has emerged as one of the country’s most discussed prospects for rare earths. This article examines where Lofdal is located, what minerals are present, the economic role it could play for Namibia and the global market, and a series of technical, environmental and historical details that make the
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The following article examines the global potential of thorium as an alternative nuclear resource and its relevance for advanced reactor systems. It surveys the geological distribution of thorium, evaluates current estimates of recoverable reserves, contrasts thorium-based fuel cycles with conventional uranium cycles, and discusses technological, economic and policy challenges that determine whether thorium can play
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The Pyhäsalmi Mine is one of the most recognizable names in European base-metal mining. Located in the village of Pyhäsalmi within the municipality of Pyhäjärvi, the mine has been a focal point for extraction of **copper** and **zinc** and a testbed for industrial adaptation and underground science. Its long history of operation, exceptional depth, and
Pyhäsalmi Mine – Finland – Copper/Zinc Read More »
The Boliden Garpenberg operation stands as one of Europe’s most important and long-lived underground metal mines. Nestled in the heart of central Sweden, it extracts a suite of valuable metals that feed both local industry and international supply chains. This article explores where the mine is located, what is mined there, its broader economic importance,
Boliden Garpenberg – Sweden – Zinc/Lead/Silver Read More »
Unakite is a visually striking, mottled rock prized by collectors, lapidaries, and designers for its blend of pink and green tones. Though often marketed simply as a decorative stone, unakite has a fascinating geological story, a range of practical and ornamental uses, and a cultural footprint that stretches from local Appalachian quarries to metaphysical boutiques
The Aitik mine, set against the stark landscapes of northern Sweden, is a landmark of modern mineral extraction. As one of the most important European sources of copper, it combines large-scale open-pit mining with contemporary approaches to processing, logistics and environmental management. This article explores where the mine is located, what is extracted there, its
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The transition metal Iridium occupies a unique place in the periodic table and in human technology. Often overshadowed by its more familiar neighbors, it combines extreme physical resilience with intriguing chemistry and a story that stretches from the depths of the Earth to the evidence of giant asteroid impacts. This article explores where iridium is
The transition to a low-carbon energy system positions hydrogen as a cornerstone of future energy vectors, enabling long-duration storage, decarbonization of heavy industry, and zero-emission mobility. Behind many hydrogen technologies lies a group of critical elements whose unique chemical and physical properties enable efficient reactions, long service life, and compact device design. This article examines
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The Talvivaara site in Finland has become one of the most discussed mining operations in Northern Europe over the last two decades. It combined ambitious industrial innovation with contentious environmental episodes, and ultimately played a notable role in debates about how to extract low-grade deposits responsibly while supplying strategically important metals. This article explores where
Talvivaara Mine – Finland – Nickel/Zinc Read More »
