Moldavites occupy a fascinating intersection between geology, history and human culture. These distinctive olive to bottle green glasses — the most famous members of the tektite family — are prized for their unusual origin, striking appearance and the stories that surround them. In this article I explore where they occur, how they formed, what people […]
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The El Soldado site, tucked along the coastal ranges of central Chile, is an important node in the country’s vast copper industry. Though not the largest of Chile’s mines, El Soldado has played a meaningful role in regional development, resource processing and the global supply of copper over decades. This article explores where El Soldado
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Hafnium is a dense, lustrous transition metal with a reputation for being both technically vital and quietly ubiquitous in high-performance materials and advanced technologies. Chemically similar to zirconium but distinct in its nuclear and electronic behavior, hafnium has carved out a niche in fields ranging from microelectronics to nuclear engineering. This article explores where hafnium
The accelerating shift to electrified transport and large-scale energy storage is reshaping demand for battery materials. Among them, manganese is emerging from the shadow of better-known elements like lithium, nickel and cobalt. As battery chemistries evolve and manufacturers seek more cost-effective, safe and reliable options, high-purity, battery-grade manganese is becoming strategically important. This article explores
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Beryl Green is a subtle and often underappreciated member of the beryl family, occupying a niche between the faint pastel greens of common beryl and the intense hues of emerald. Although it lacks the blockbuster name recognition of its verdant cousin, it combines the solid physical qualities that make beryl a desirable material for both
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The following article explores the significance, operations and intriguing aspects of Los Pelambres, one of the major copper producers located in Chile. It describes where the mine is situated, what minerals are extracted, how it affects the local and national economy, and highlights technical, environmental and social points of interest that make this mine notable
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The Collahuasi complex occupies a prominent place in the landscape of South American resources: a large-scale open-pit operation located in the high Andean plateau of northern Chile. As one of the world’s most significant copper producers, Collahuasi combines vast geological riches with modern industrial practice. This article describes where the site is, what the operation
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Morganite Pink is a captivating member of the beryl family prized for its delicate blush tones and gentle sparkle. This article explores its geological origins, physical and chemical characteristics, a variety of colors and treatments, applications in contemporary and antique jewelry, and the broader cultural and commercial context surrounding this appealing gemstone. Throughout the text
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Tsavorite is one of the most striking green gemstones discovered in the 20th century: a vivid, lively variety of grossular garnet prized by gemologists and jewelers alike. Combining the toughness of garnet with an emerald-like hue, this stone has gained an enthusiastic following among collectors and designers. The following article explores its origins, chemistry, geological
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The Los Bronces mine, set high in the Andes just to the northeast of Santiago, is one of Chile’s most important copper operations. Its long lifespan, significant production, and continuous investment in deeper resources make it a focal point for both national industry and the global copper market. This article explores where Los Bronces is
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