Graphene is an allotrope of carbon. It consists of a single layer of atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice nanostructure. Graphene is the thinnest two-dimensional material in the world and various other properties that make it quite valuable: the global graphene industry was worth $9 million in 2012. Have you ever wondered if graphene is…
Ever bought silver jewelry only to have it rust shortly after? Unfortunately, you might buy an item thinking it’s made of pure metal just to find out it’s not. Some manufacturers produce imitations that resemble more expensive metals. How can you determine if something is pure silver before you buy it? There are recommendations to…
Did you know that rhodium is more precious than gold? Rhodium, however, is occasionally used to plate fake jewelry made of less expensive metals even though it is more expensive than other precious metals. Rhodium is less likely to tarnish than other plating metals. Rhodium does, however, have specific additional unique properties. Is rhodium magnetic? …
Did you know that hazelnuts and cocoa beans both contain iron oxide? It’s common in food-related products. But iron oxide also has a significant impact on a variety of biological and geological processes. Due to its unique qualities, iron oxide is abundant in nature and widespread in most industries. But is iron oxide magnetic? We…
Bismuth is a naturally occurring element as common as silver in the crust of the Earth. Ancient Egyptians used it for cosmetic purposes. In modern-day bismuth crystals makes beautiful jewelry. It has become popular across multiple industries because of its unique properties. But is bismuth magnetic? It is one of the questions we shall answer,…
Magnetite is a common earth mineral. Magnetite is composed of three parts iron and four parts oxygen. It is also known as lodestone and has been a priceless mineral since ancient times. Early explorers like Christopher Columbus found it to be quite useful due to one of its properties. Is magnetite magnetic, though? The first…
Alexandrite and amethyst are two beautiful gemstones that are widely used in jewelry. The former is often called “emerald by day, ruby by night” by gem lovers due to its unique color-changing property. The latter is also popular for its gorgeous purple color. The two minerals can often be confused by people. However, they have…
Garnet and Ruby are both red gems that are often confused. However, these two gems differ from each other in almost every other aspect, from chemical composition to market price. Both are popular in jewelry as well as for spiritual purposes. In this article, we are going to look at the differences between garnet and…
Jasper and Agate are two of the most common stones used in rock tumbling (a process used to smooth and polish rocks). This is because both of them are affordable, come in a wide variety of colorful patterns, and most importantly, are durable enough for a tumbler. In this article, we are going to discuss…
Agate and geode are beautiful rock pieces that both rock collectors and spiritualists value. The former is a banded variety of chalcedony while the latter are spherical rock structures that have an internal cavity of minerals. Have you ever wondered how agate and geode differ from each other? In this article, we are going to…
Aventurine and amazonite are both beautiful green stones that are widely used as gemstones. Due to their abundant quantity across the planet, both stones are quite affordable and are often used as alternatives to more expensive gemstones. Have you ever wondered how Aventurine and Amazonite are different? In this article, we are going to discuss…
Green rocks and minerals can be found worldwide and appear in many forms, making them an intriguing subject for exploration. As you delve into the world of vibrant green gemstones, understand that these minerals derive their color from their chemical composition and crystal structures. This article aims to introduce you to 13+ types of green…
Purple rocks and minerals have always been a fascinating topic for collectors, jewelry enthusiasts, and geologists alike. The wide range of purple shades, from light lavender to deep violet, is visually captivating and adds a touch of elegance to any collection. As you delve into the world of purple gemstones, you’ll be amazed by their…
When exploring the fascinating world of rocks and minerals, you may have come across some intriguing black-colored specimens. From shiny and smooth obsidian to the classic black onyx, these dark beauties may have caught your attention. In this article, you’ll learn about 13 different types of black rocks and minerals you may encounter in your…
Blue rocks, gems, and minerals have captivated people’s imaginations for centuries with their stunning hues and unique properties. As you delve into the world of these beautiful natural wonders, you’ll undoubtedly be amazed by the incredible variety and countless examples of nature’s artistry. Throughout history, these vibrant blue gems and minerals have been prized for…