Knowledge base

Howlite is a quietly fascinating mineral that sits at the crossroads of geology, craftsmanship and popular culture. Often overlooked because of its modest hardness and unassuming white color, this stone has a rich story: it is a product of unique geological processes, a favorite among artisans for dyeing and carving, and an object of interest […]

Sodalite is a strikingly blue stone that has captured the interest of mineralogists, lapidaries and collectors for two centuries. Its deep hues, often punctuated by white calcite veins, make it an attractive material for jewelry and ornamental uses, while its mineralogical characteristics provide insight into the chemistry and formation of silica-undersaturated igneous systems. In the

Calcite is one of the most abundant and versatile minerals on Earth, found from the depths of marine sediments to the peaks of metamorphic mountains and in hot spring deposits. Its chemical composition, calcium carbonate, and its range of crystal habits make it central to geology, industry and biology. This article explores the mineral’s physical

Apatite is a diverse and scientifically significant group of phosphate minerals that play a central role in geology, biology, and industry. Its chemical variability, crystalline forms, and widespread occurrence make it an important subject for mineralogists, environmental scientists, agronomists, and collectors. This article explores the mineral’s structure, natural settings, technological and biological applications, and a

Amazonite is a captivating variety of potassium feldspar prized for its soothing blue-green hues and striking presence in both collections and wearable art. This article explores its mineralogy, where it forms, how it is used, identification and care, as well as cultural and market contexts that make amazonite a stone of ongoing fascination for geologists,

Sunstone is a captivating gemstone that combines geological intrigue with visual drama. Often admired for its warm, metallic flashes and sunlit hues, this mineral has inspired collectors, jewelers, and storytellers for centuries. In the text that follows you will find a wide-ranging exploration of where sunstone forms, how it is identified and cut, its uses

Moonstone is a captivating gem that evokes the cool, shifting light of the night sky. Its shimmering sheen and soft colors have inspired artisans, collectors, and storytellers for centuries. In this article I explore the geology, distribution, uses, cutting techniques, cultural meanings, and modern applications of this extraordinary stone, providing scientific background as well as

Carnelian is a warm, translucent variety of cryptocrystalline quartz that has been prized for millennia for its vivid orange to deep red hues. As a form of chalcedony colored by traces of iron, carnelian occupies a distinctive place between geology, art, and culture. This article explores the stone’s geological origins, global occurrences, historical uses, modern

Aventurine is a captivating variety of feldspar-bearing or quartz-rich rock celebrated for its shimmering, reflective inclusions and broad palette of colors. This article explores the mineralogical nature of aventurine, where it is found, how it is used both practically and culturally, and several intriguing facets of its history and contemporary relevance. Along the way you

The warm, sunlit hues of Citrine have captivated gem enthusiasts, jewelers, and collectors for centuries. As a variety of quartz, this gemstone ranges from pale yellow to deep amber and occupies a unique place at the intersection of geology, craftsmanship, and cultural symbolism. In the following sections you will find a detailed exploration of its