Many minerals form beautiful crystals, but the most prized of all are gemstones. Uncut gems often look fairly ordinary–like rocks. It's only when they are cut and polished that they obtain the ...

Researchers at Heidelberg University are studying the formation of this characteristically blue-colored crystal in volcanic melts Sapphires are among the most precious gems, yet they consist ...

The blue rocks, distinct in mineral composition, suggest geological processes or historical water activity, raising questions about Mars' history and the potential for life. The discovery of blue ...