Knowledge base

Anatase is a fascinating mineral form of titanium dioxide that has captured the interest of scientists, engineers, and artists alike. As one of the three naturally occurring polymorphs of TiO2, it combines a distinctive crystal structure with surface properties that make it especially valuable for modern technologies. This article explores where anatase is found in […]

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

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

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 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

Albite is a common and versatile mineral whose presence weaves through the story of the Earth’s crust. This sodium-rich member of the feldspar family plays a key role in igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary processes, and carries both scientific importance and practical value. The following article explores where albite occurs, how it is used in industry

Alabaster has captivated human hands and eyes for millennia, prized for its soft workability and delicate beauty. This article explores the geology, uses, cultural history and practical aspects of working with and conserving this material. You will learn where it occurs, how it differs depending on composition, and why artists and craftsmen continue to choose

Fuchsite is a striking green member of the mica family whose vivid color and delicate flaky habit make it attractive to collectors, lapidaries, and researchers alike. This chromium‑rich variety of muscovite combines familiar physical properties of micas—perfect cleavage, pearly luster and flexible sheets—with a distinctive emerald to apple‑green hue caused by chromium substitution. Beyond aesthetics,

Graphite is a fascinating and versatile mineral that has shaped technologies from the simple household pencil to advanced energy storage systems. With a unique combination of physical and chemical properties, it occupies an essential position in modern industry, research and everyday life. This article explores where graphite occurs in nature, how it is processed and

Sulfur is a fascinating and ancient mineral with a bright history and modern relevance. Beyond its familiar yellow crystals, sulfur plays a central role in ecosystems, industry and culture. This article explores where sulfur is found, how it is formed and extracted, and the many uses and implications of this versatile sulfur in natural and