Session 2 – Crystals & Minerals

Discover the hidden geometry of the Earth.

Session synopsis

Step into the colourful world of crystals and minerals. Participants will investigate why crystals sparkle, why minerals form different shapes and how simple clues such as colour, transparency and shine can help tell specimens apart. Real crystals, magnifiers and easy matching challenges make this a highly visual session with plenty to discover.

What will participants do?

· Examine real crystals and minerals using magnifiers.

· Compare crystal shape, colour, transparency, texture and shine.

· Explore the different ways minerals can look shiny, glassy or dull.

· Compare real specimens with simple crystal-shape cards or 3D-printed forms.

· Solve a Mystery Mineral challenge using an easy visual guide.

· Choose a small mineral or crystal specimen to take home with a collector card.

Age: 10–12 years
Duration: Approximately 75–90 minutes
Capacity: Maximum 16 participants
Experience required: None
Materials: All equipment and materials are provided.