Knowledge base

Scheelite is a striking and scientifically important mineral best known as one of the primary ores of tungsten. Its bright luster, high specific gravity and characteristic blue-white fluorescence under ultraviolet light made it a favorite of collectors and prospectors alike long before its industrial significance was fully appreciated. Chemically simple yet geologically versatile, scheelite appears […]

Wulfenite is an eye-catching secondary mineral prized by mineralogists and collectors for its striking colors and thin, tabular crystals. As a member of the molybdate family, it links the chemistry of lead deposits with the geochemical mobility of molybdenum. This article explores the mineral’s chemistry, formation environments, notable occurrences, practical and scientific uses, and aspects

Smithsonite is a striking and historically important mineral that often delights collectors and scientists alike. Chemically a zinc carbonate (ZnCO3), it forms in the oxidized zones of zinc-bearing ore deposits and displays a wide palette of colors and habits. This article explores its chemistry, physical characteristics, global occurrences, economic roles as an ore of zinc,

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

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

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,

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

Scapolite is a fascinating group of silicate minerals that occupies a unique place in both petrology and gemology. Often occurring as well-formed prismatic crystals or as granular aggregates in metamorphosed carbonate rocks, scapolite records important information about the fluids and conditions that altered its host rocks. This article explores where scapolite forms, its distinguishing physical

Ruby Zoisite is a striking and unusual ornamental stone that combines verdant green matrix with vivid red crystals, producing one of the most visually dramatic natural combinations found in gemstones. Often sought after by collectors, lapidaries and metaphysical practitioners alike, this material can be both sculpted into elegant jewelry and carved into bold decorative pieces.

Zoisite is a fascinating and versatile mineral that bridges the world of crystallography, gemology and regional geology. Belonging to the epidote group, it displays a range of colors and textures, from pale green and pink to intense blue and violet, and appears in geological settings shaped by intense pressure and temperature. In this article you