Montana is filled with many minerals. One of the most intriguingly named is dogtooth calcite. Not, in fact, a fossil of actual canine teeth, “dogtooth” is actually a reference to the shape of the crystals: the golden honey-colored calcite naturally forms into very pointy pyramid shapes. At times, the crystals will double terminate, creating beautifully faceted … [Read more...] about Dogtooth Calcite
Articles
Pearls: The Only Gemstone From a Living Creature
Pearls have fascinated people since ancient times; they are valued around the world for their beauty and rarity. The Bible even refers to a man who was willing to trade everything he owned for ONE pearl of high value. While most gemstones are lying buried deep under the ground, pearls are the only gemstones that are not mined, polished or cut. Their iridescence and symmetry … [Read more...] about Pearls: The Only Gemstone From a Living Creature
Petrified Wood: A Rock with Tree Rings
Montana is known for many things and our forests are at the top of the list. They support our economy, recreational pursuits, ecosystem and tourism. Our ancient forests have also given us petrified wood, literally, “wood turned into stone.” While a majority of fossils are impressions of ancient life left in rock, petrified wood is a 3-D replica of a tree from long … [Read more...] about Petrified Wood: A Rock with Tree Rings
Meteorites ~ Shooting Stars in Your Hand
On February 15, 2013, the largest known meteorite to enter our atmosphere in 100 years exploded over Russia (according to NASA). The explosion unleashed the force of 20 atomic bombs and sent a destructive shock wave that injured over 1,000 people. Meteorites are now on the tongue of everyday people and more eyes are scanning the night sky than ever before. Inquisitive … [Read more...] about Meteorites ~ Shooting Stars in Your Hand
Northern Lights in a Rock
The northern lights are a jaw-dropping display of moving color. Whether seen in person or simply viewed on a TV screen, aurora borealis is incredible at every glimpse. The spectrum of colors displayed tugs on our emotions. The knowledge that what is there now will be gone in a moment keeps us eternally craving more. Though few people know of it, there is a rock that … [Read more...] about Northern Lights in a Rock