Ask-a-Geologist #22: What are some common household uses of rocks and minerals?

We received a great question from one of our customers about the usefulness of rocks. Teddy wrote:

What are some common household items made of rocks and minerals?

In this video answer, we talk about several types of rocks and minerals and their common uses. There are probably some you know and maybe a few you do not. We talk about one you probably use everyday and one you may even eat. Take a look at the video and see how many of these you know.

The Geometry of Mineral Crystals

There are many, many different crystal shapes in the world. In fact, there are too many to list in a simple blog post! Determining the shapes of different minerals can help you uncover their identity.

10 Essential Specimens for Every Awesome Mineral Collection

Minerals are the building blocks of every rock in our world. Some minerals are so common that they form all over the world and others are so rare that you can only find them in a few places on Earth. We’ve compiled a list of our top 10 favorite samples for every mineral collection. Whether you collect for fun or teach science classes or homeschool your children, this list is a must.

Use Rock Walks to Connect with Your Kids and Science

Looking for some fun time with the kids away from the television, phones and video games?

Try a “Rock Walk!”

What You Need to Know About Minerals & Gemstones

Minerals are unique chemical substances which are homogeneous (the same) throughout the specimen. Minerals can be found as single crystals or clusters of many crystals. Rocks are a group of minerals that are found together.

Geology is all around you!

Whether you know a lot about geology or just a little, you probably know that the Earth’s crust and the material below it are made up of rocks and minerals. There are hundreds of varieties of rocks and minerals and each one has its own unique history from the time it was formed to the time someone finds a specimen and adds it to their collection

Ask-a-Geologist #15: What Geology Field Notes Do I Take When I Find Rocks and Minerals?

Ellie wrote to us and asked what notes she should take when she finds rocks and minerals. Geologists use fancy notebooks with waterproof paper but a simple notebook and pen will work just fine. Watch this video to find out what notes to take and how to organize your notebook for your collection.

Geodes are fun for all ages

Fun Crack-Your-Own-Geodes make great gifts. Cover each geode with a sock or towel and hit gently with a hammer until the rock breaks open. Uncover the geode pieces for dazzling display of crystals! Each geode is approximately 2″ to 5″ in diameter. Adult supervision required. Best for ages 6+ with adult supervision for children. Due […]

Junior Rock and Minerals kits

No, these are not just for little kids, they are smaller versions of our deluxe kits for any age. These fun kits in a tube are perfect for introducing science to both young and old alike. Each kit is only $19.99 and comes with 10 samples and an identification flyer. You can store everything in […]

Sedimentary Rocks

Sedimentary rocks are formed when sand, small pieces of rock, or mud are deposited as layers of sediment.