GEO 161 - Scientific Secrets of Crystals & Gems (FYS) (1)

The beauty and rarity of crystals and gemstones have lead them to be coveted and controlled by the wealthy, powerful, and famous. However, their true value lies in the secrets they hold about the history of the Earth. Diamonds, for example, form more than 100 miles underground and are carried to the surface by superfast volcanic eruptions. Rubies are created by the same massive tectonic collisions that lift up mountain ranges. Emeralds, tourmalines, and amethyst grow as a result of magma cooling under volcanoes. These different origins imbue each gemstone with unique physical and chemical characteristics, including their dazzling array of colors and crystal shapes. In this hands-on course, we will study a variety of precious and semi-precious gemstones to better understand the scientific links between chemical composition and physical properties (like color, hardness, or crystal shape) and between plate tectonic settings and particular gems. We will explore the department’s impressive mineral collection; observe minerals under the microscope; grow and examine our own crystals; collect semi-precious gemstones in the field; and visit the Chicago Field Museum for a behind-the-scenes look at their amazing gemstone collection.
(First Year Seminar (FYS))