Crocidolite has a complex and often controversial place in the history of geology, industry and public health. This article explores the mineral from multiple angles: its chemical nature and appearance, where it forms and is mined, how humans have used it and reacted to its risks, and some lesser-known or curious aspects connected to the […]
Creedite is a delicate and visually striking mineral that captures the interest of collectors, mineralogists, and geologists alike. While not a major industrial commodity, it plays a valuable role in telling the story of the geochemical environments that form unusual fluoride- and sulfate-bearing assemblages. This article explores creedite’s appearance and habits, the geologic settings where
The mineral covellite (chemical formula CuS) is a striking and scientifically rich copper sulfide that has fascinated mineralogists, collectors and materials scientists for more than a century. With its deep indigo-blue to metallic black color, layered crystal habit and unusual electronic behavior, covellite occupies a special place at the intersection of traditional economic geology and
Cordierite is a often-overlooked but technologically important mineral and ceramic phase with a mix of geological intrigue and practical value. This article explores its identity, where it forms in nature, how it is harnessed in industry, and several fascinating aspects that bridge mineralogy, materials science, and everyday technology. Expect discussion of its structure, properties such
Colemanite is a mineral that has played a quiet but indispensable role in the global supply of boron compounds. As a hydrated calcium borate, it occupies a specific niche in both the geological record and in modern industry. This article examines the mineral’s **structure**, natural **occurrence**, methods of **extraction** and **processing**, and the many **applications**
Cobaltite is a striking mineral that occupies a small but important place in the story of industrial metals, mineralogy and environmental geology. With a characteristic metallic sheen and a chemical formula that binds cobalt with arsenic and sulfur, cobaltite is both a scientific curiosity and an economically significant ore mineral. This article explores where cobaltite
Cobaltoan calcite is a striking variety of the common mineral calcite that owes its vivid pink to magenta hues to the presence of trace cobalt. Although it shares many physical properties with ordinary calcite, its coloration, associations and the geological environments in which it forms make it a favorite among mineral collectors, lapidaries and researchers.
Clinozoisite is a fascinating and often overlooked member of the epidote group of minerals. Although it rarely headlines gem collections in the way beryl or garnet do, it plays a central role in understanding many metamorphic and hydrothermal processes. This article will explore the mineral’s chemistry and structure, its characteristic environments of occurrence, practical and
Clinohumite is an uncommon and intriguing member of the humite group of nesosilicates. Its striking colors, unique crystal chemistry, and geological settings make it a subject of interest both for mineral collectors and for researchers who study mantle processes and metasomatism. This article explores the mineralogy, occurrences, applications, and fascinating scientific roles of clinohumite, with
Cinnabar is one of the most visually striking and historically important minerals on Earth. Known for its deep, luminous red and its role as the principal ore of mercury, cinnabar has fascinated miners, artists, alchemists and scientists for millennia. This article explores where cinnabar is found, how it forms, its many uses — from the
