Kämmererite

Acanthite is supersaturated in silver and is the most predominant mineral mined to refine this element. A massive cache of acanthite was found in 1859 in Nevada, USA, causing a major silver rush to that state. A new mint was built close by just to process the massive amounts of silver being unearthed.

Jet is a black-colored gemstone that is a type of lignite coal and inspired the phrase "jet black". It was used by the Romans for creating jewelry, and the most famous type of jet was found in Whitby, England. It was often used during times of grieving. Queen Victoria wore it after Prince Albert's death.

Willemite is a stunning example of nature going over and above the call of beauty! It is one of the most well-known fluorescent minerals used in the production of some of the first versions of tubes for televisions. Without willemite, we may not be watching television today!

The remarkable blue appearance of afghanite is a very recent discovery, dating back to just 1968. It is incredibly rare! Since its initial discovery, it has only been found in Afghanistan and a few minuscule bands elsewhere. It is an incredibly complex crystal comprised of eleven different elements.

Fluorapatite is the most common member of the Apatite group. Aside from mines around the world, this mineral also occurs in human teeth that are exposed to fluoride (e.g. through toothpaste). Though colorless when pure, crystals are often formed with minor impurities that give them a wide range of colors. Some particularly attractive or deeply-colored specimens may be sought after by collectors. On the industrial side of things, fluorapatite is sometimes mined as a source of phosphorus.

Found first and most predominantly during mining operations in Bisbee, Arizona, shattuckite is an unforgettable gem find! It is relatively uncommon to stumble upon and is usually nestled in with other minerals such as quartz. Smaller specimens make excellent gems for beading and jewelry.

Perlite is a powdery or pebble-like form of volcanic glass. This lightweight mineral has made its way into many industrial processes, from plaster formation to beer filtering. Gardeners, though, will be more familiar with it as a common soil additive. White perlite grains added to soil help it stay aerated and increase drainage.

Being a relatively rare mineral, hauerite is highly prized by collectors. This mineral is found in low-temperature environments such as solfataras, fumaroles, and marine and clay salt deposit rich in sulfur. The presence of this brownish-gray mineral is, in fact, used as an indicator of sulfur deposits in the area.