Idar Oberstein Gem Cutting: What Is It?
The demand for the next new thing defines the Modern Age. However, this expectation of significant developments in rapid succession is a recent…
Destructive Mineral Tests: Scratch Testing
Scratch testing can help determine the Mohs hardness value of a mineral sample. If done carefully, this procedure can help mineralogists…
Mineralogy of Phyllosilicates and Tectosilicates
In this article, we will discuss phyllosilicates and tectosilicates. These silicate subclasses include minerals crucial for technology and…
Mineralogy of Silicates: Nesosilicates and Sorosilicates
Silicates are the largest mineral class, making up over 90% of the Earth’s crust and mantle. Statistically, you are more likely to encounter…
Mineralogy of Phyllosilicates and Tectosilicates
The silicate subgroups of phyllosilicates and tectosilicates include minerals used in industry and jewelry. Learn how to identify them.
Eighth Anniversary Gift: Tourmaline
Just like birthstones, there are gemstones that represent each wedding anniversary year. Tourmaline is the gemstone to give for an eighth anniversary…
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