Knowledge base

Fibrolite is the historic name given to the fibrous variety of the mineral sillimanite, a high‑temperature aluminium silicate with the chemical formula Al2SiO5. Recognized by its slender, often silky fibers, fibrolite has captured attention both for what it reveals about the metamorphic history of rocks and for its occasional industrial uses. This article examines where […]

Shungite is a remarkable and enigmatic form of carbon-rich rock that has attracted attention from geologists, chemists, health enthusiasts and designers alike. Often dark and lustrous, it carries a mix of ancient geological history, unusual molecular structures and a variety of practical uses. This article explores the origins, composition, global occurrences, traditional and modern applications,

Jet Stone — a compact, deep black organic material often associated with lignite and ancient forests — occupies a curious place at the intersection of geology, craft and cultural history. Both a lightweight gemstone for wearable art and a scientific marker of prehistoric ecosystems, jet connects human creativity with the slow processes of fossilization. This

Amber is one of nature’s most evocative materials: a hard, translucent product of tree resin that has hardened and fossilized over millions of years. It captures not only light and color but tiny fragments of ancient ecosystems, offering both aesthetic pleasures and scientific windows into deep time. This article explores what amber is, where it

Coral as an organic gemstone occupies a special place at the intersection of natural history, art and culture. Formed by living organisms, some species of coral create durable, vividly colored material that has been prized for millennia as beads, amulets and ornamental objects. This article explores the biology, geography, uses and issues surrounding coral as

Iolite is a fascinating blue-to-violet gemstone with a long geological and cultural story. Often admired for its striking color and dramatic optical behavior, this mineral occupies a special place both in the world of jewelry and in certain industrial applications. The text below examines iolite from several angles: its mineralogy and optical phenomena, where it

Kyanite is an intriguing and versatile mineral that captivates both geologists and industry professionals. Known for its distinctive blade-like crystals and striking colors, it occupies a special place among the three Al2SiO5 polymorphs along with andalusite and sillimanite. This article explores the mineral’s geological setting, physical and chemical characteristics, practical applications in modern industry and

Serpentine is a group of hydrous magnesium silicate minerals with a rich interplay of geology, industry and culture. Beyond its attractive green hues and waxy luster, serpentine plays a significant role in understanding rock alteration processes, hosting valuable mineral deposits, and posing real-world environmental and health challenges. This article explores the mineralogical characteristics of serpentine,

Jet, a deep black organic gemstone prized for its warm polish and dramatic appearance, has moved through human history as both a decorative material and a talisman. Emerging from ancient forests transformed over millions of years, this stone has been carved, worn and imbued with meaning in cultures across the world. The following exploration covers

The opal has fascinated people for centuries with its shimmering surface and seemingly magical flashes of color. This article explores the stone from many angles: what it is, how and where it forms, the major sources and mining regions, its practical and artistic applications, and the scientific and cultural stories that surround it. Along the