Knowledge base

Tourmaline is a mineral that fascinates geologists, gemologists and collectors alike because of its extraordinary variety of colors, physical properties and geological settings. In this article we will explore where tourmaline forms, what gives it such dazzling hues, how it is used both as a precious gemstone and in scientific contexts, and some intriguing cultural […]

Magnetite is one of the most widely recognized and scientifically significant iron oxides on Earth. This mineral combines an intriguing set of physical and chemical properties — chief among them persistent natural magnetism — which have made it important since antiquity and indispensable in many modern technologies. The following text explores its nature, global occurrence,

The following article explores the mineral known as dolomite from multiple angles: its composition, geological occurrence, physical properties, industrial uses, environmental implications, and some lesser-known but intriguing aspects of its behavior and role in Earth systems. The aim is to provide a comprehensive, scientifically grounded description while highlighting practical applications and interesting phenomena connected to

Zircon is a small but immensely informative mineral whose durability and chemical composition make it indispensable across geology, industry and gemology. This article explores the mineral’s chemistry, crystallography, global occurrences, scientific applications and cultural uses. Along the way it highlights remarkable discoveries enabled by zircons and the reasons this mineral remains a focus of modern

Spinel is a gemstone with a long and fascinating story that often hides in plain sight behind more famous stones. Although it has been admired for centuries, its identity was sometimes mistaken for other minerals, which only adds to its intrigue. This article explores the geological origins of spinel, its physical and chemical characteristics, the

Beryl is a fascinating mineral that sits at the crossroads of geology, gemology and industry. Belonging to the cyclosilicate family, it can appear in a rainbow of colors and sizes, from delicate pale stones to large, gem-quality crystals coveted by collectors and jewelers. This article examines the mineral’s chemistry and structure, the places where it

Chalcedony is a fascinating member of the quartz family, admired for its subtle colors, fine texture and long history of human use. This article explores its natural formation, global occurrences, diverse varieties, practical and artistic applications, and cultural significance. Readers will find geological explanations, tips for collectors and lapidaries, information on synthetics and imitations, and

Chrysocolla is a vivid and variable mineral beloved by collectors, jewelers, and cultural historians alike. Its striking blue-green hues and intimate association with copper-rich environments give it a distinctive place among secondary copper minerals. This article explores where chrysocolla is found, how it forms, its practical and cultural uses, and several intriguing facts that connect

Azurite is a strikingly deep blue **mineral** admired by collectors, artists and geologists alike. Its intense color and historical presence in art make it more than a scientific curiosity: azurite has played roles in mining exploration, pigment technology and decorative stonework for centuries. This article explores azurite’s chemistry, physical characteristics, geological environments, notable occurrences, historical

The stone known to many as the traditional signet of ancient artisans and the subject of legend and lore is both visually striking and scientifically interesting. This article explores the mineral commonly called bloodstone, its geology, distribution, cultural roles, and modern uses. Along the way you will find practical information about identification, cutting and care,