| Olivine is not a separate mineral, but a member belonging to the forsterite-fayalite mixing series. Olivine belongs to the olivin-groupe whose end-members are calcio-olivine and tephroite. Forsterite is a magnesium silicate; fayalite an iron silicate. If commonly is spoken of olivine, it is usually ... moreOlivine is not a separate mineral, but a member belonging to the forsterite-fayalite mixing series. Olivine belongs to the olivin-groupe whose end-members are calcio-olivine and tephroite. Forsterite is a magnesium silicate; fayalite an iron silicate. If commonly is spoken of olivine, it is usually a more or less iron-rich forsterite. The color of olivine is generally yellowish green, olive green to black. You will find much more interesting details in our portrait about this common mineral series. Written and investigated by Peter Seroka. (Article in german) |
| In the late Middle Ages massive amount of Baryt which phosphoresced when it was gently heated, were discovered in Italy. This stone was named after its place of discovery "Pietra fosforica di Bologna" (phosphorescent Bologna stone) and was of great interest to alchemists. Although the name baryte ha ... moreIn the late Middle Ages massive amount of Baryt which phosphoresced when it was gently heated, were discovered in Italy. This stone was named after its place of discovery "Pietra fosforica di Bologna" (phosphorescent Bologna stone) and was of great interest to alchemists. Although the name baryte has been assigned centuries later, it may be assumed that the Bologna stone is the first description in the literature. A portrait about this famous mineral by Peter Seroka. |
| The Mineralientage München 2025 – The Munich Show once again showcased a fascinating variety of minerals, fossils, and jewelry. Although visitor numbers appeared slightly lower than last year, the fair remained vibrant and diverse. Highlights included the collector displays and the special exhibitio ... moreThe Mineralientage München 2025 – The Munich Show once again showcased a fascinating variety of minerals, fossils, and jewelry. Although visitor numbers appeared slightly lower than last year, the fair remained vibrant and diverse. Highlights included the collector displays and the special exhibition on natural resources, while the fossil section was somewhat smaller. Some visitors expressed a wish for more seating areas, opportunities for exchange, and more eye-catching advertising, yet overall the event left a very positive impression and remains a must-visit for collectors and families alike. |
| ... Forschungsbohrungen (1988, Groß Pampau I & II) ergaben, dass ab ca. 7 m Tiefe der Tonschichten das mittlere Langenfeldium, ab ca. 19 m das untere Langenfeldium und ab ca. 29 m das obere Reinbekium beginnnt. Während des Hauptabbaus (Seeseite) in Groß Pampau waren ca. 17 m der Glimmertonschichten ... more... Forschungsbohrungen (1988, Groß Pampau I & II) ergaben, dass ab ca. 7 m Tiefe der Tonschichten das mittlere Langenfeldium, ab ca. 19 m das untere Langenfeldium und ab ca. 29 m das obere Reinbekium beginnnt. Während des Hauptabbaus (Seeseite) in Groß Pampau waren ca. 17 m der Glimmertonschichten mehr oder weniger zugänglich, als Ton für die Deponieabdeckung abgebaut wurde. Anhand der aufgelesenen Fossilien (mehr als 150 Arten konnten gefunden werden) und dem Vergleich dieser Arten mit heute noch in gemäßigteren Regionen lebenden Vertretern (und deren Lebensbedingungen), geht man von einer damals durchschnittlichen Wassertiefe von 50 - 80 m aus. ... |
| 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) |