| In 1978 the US - American geologist Walter Alvarez gained a narrow pattern red clay in the Italian Apennines and certain age these samples to approximately 65 million years , ie at the end of the Cretaceous period and the beginning of the Tertiary period. This very thin lime- clay layer lies between ... moreIn 1978 the US - American geologist Walter Alvarez gained a narrow pattern red clay in the Italian Apennines and certain age these samples to approximately 65 million years , ie at the end of the Cretaceous period and the beginning of the Tertiary period. This very thin lime- clay layer lies between two calcareous sediments and showed a different fossil record , which to a mass extinction ( faunal ) hinted . While further analysis Alvarez noted a high iridium concentrations; a typical ... An article by Peter Seroka (written in german) |
| Aragonite is a calcium carbonate, chemically identical with calcite. The mineral calcite, however, differs from Aragonite due to its internal crystal structure. While the crystal system of calcite is trigonal, the system of aragonite is rhombic. Dense masses of small aragonite crystals are difficul ... moreAragonite is a calcium carbonate, chemically identical with calcite. The mineral calcite, however, differs from Aragonite due to its internal crystal structure. While the crystal system of calcite is trigonal, the system of aragonite is rhombic. Dense masses of small aragonite crystals are difficult to distinguish from calcite, but they are larger, they show a distinct habit. A lot of chapters in this portrait will give you much more details about this interesting mineral. Written and investigated by Peter Seroka. (Article in german) |
| People have always been fascinated by precious stones because of their lustre. But not only polished gems shine. Each raw mineral has, such as mica flakes in the river sand show, its very special characteristic luster. Gloss isn't simply measurable. It is usually described by comparison with objects ... morePeople have always been fascinated by precious stones because of their lustre. But not only polished gems shine. Each raw mineral has, such as mica flakes in the river sand show, its very special characteristic luster. Gloss isn't simply measurable. It is usually described by comparison with objects of everyday life ... (in german) |