Knowledge base

Hematite – (mineral)

Hematite is one of the most widespread and historically significant iron oxides on Earth. As both a major source of iron and a striking mineral used in pigments, jewelry, and high-tech applications, hematite connects geology, industry, art, and planetary science. This article explores where hematite occurs, how it forms, its physical and chemical characteristics, its […]

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Tiger Eye – (stone)

Tiger Eye is a striking and widely admired variety of cryptocrystalline quartz known for its shimmering, silky luster and the optical effect called chatoyancy. Its golden-brown bands, sometimes blue or red variants, have made it a staple in both jewelry and ornamental stone collections. This article explores how Tiger Eye forms, where it is found,

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Lapis Lazuli – (stone)

Lapis lazuli is a gemstone and cultural symbol whose intense blue has inspired artists, rulers and craftsmen for millennia. This article explores the stone’s geological origins, its geographic distribution, historical and modern applications, methods of identification and care, and a selection of intriguing facts. Along the way you will encounter the science behind its color,

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Onyx – (stone)

Onyx is a storied and visually striking stone that has played diverse roles across geology, art, and industry. Its layered appearance, often featuring contrasting stripes, makes it an attractive choice for decorative and functional uses. This article explores the nature of onyx, where it is found, how it is used, and a variety of fascinating

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Agate – (stone)

Agate is a fascinating and widely collected variety of microcrystalline quartz known for its striking banding, wide range of colors and patterns, and durable nature. It has inspired artisans, geologists and jewelers for centuries and appears in contexts from volcanic rock cavities to ancient trade routes. This article explores the geological formation of agate, its

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Turquoise – (stone)

Turquoise has fascinated humans for millennia with its range of blue-to-green hues, veined patterns, and cultural resonance. As both a gemstone and a material with geological and historical significance, turquoise intersects science, art, trade, and spirituality. This article explores where turquoise is found, how it forms and is treated, its applications in jewelry and ornamentation,

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Topaz – (stone)

Topaz is a fascinating and versatile mineral that has captured human attention for millennia. Known for its clarity, range of colors, and distinctive crystal habits, this stone occupies a special place in both the scientific study of minerals and the world of fine jewelry. In the following sections you will find an overview of how

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Emerald – (stone)

Emeralds have captivated human imagination for millennia with their deep green hues and enigmatic inclusions. A member of the beryl mineral family, the emerald is prized both as a gemstone and as a cultural icon. This article explores the geological origins of emeralds, their physical and gemological properties, historical and modern uses, ethical and market

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Sapphire – (stone)

Sapphire is one of the most admired and versatile gemstones in both history and modern technology. Known for its striking colors, remarkable physical properties, and wide range of uses, this mineral carries a legacy that spans royalty, science, and industry. The following article explores its geology, cultural significance, industrial applications, and the scientific developments that

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Ruby – (stone)

The vivid red gemstone known to many as ruby has fascinated humans for millennia. Valued for its color, durability, and symbolic power, the stone occupies a special place in both the scientific study of minerals and in cultural history. This article explores the stone from multiple angles: its geological origins, physical and optical characteristics, principal

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