The History and Science of Minerals
Minerals have provided humans with essential raw materials for centuries. We’ve used them as currency to trade. We’ve made them into ceramics and plumbing. We now harness their ability to conduct and store electricity to power our cell phones and cars.
EXHIBITIONS
Earthly Matters
Explore a unique collection of minerals that tells the story of human curiosity about the material world around us.
SCIENTIFIC BIOGRAPHIES
Friedrich Mohs
The German mineralogist created the Mohs Hardness Scale, a tool for determining the hardness of minerals that is still used today.
DIGITAL COLLECTIONS
Earthly Matters Collection
View the 23 elements, crystals, gemstones, and precious metals featured in our ‘Earthly Matters’ exhibition.
RESOURCE GUIDE
Dig Deeper: Minerals
When you’re ready to learn more about minerals, the Othmer Library at the Science History Institute has you covered.
EDUCATION
The Case of Rare Earth Elements
This role-playing simulation game allows students to debate the positive and negative perspectives of rare earth elements from all sides.
DIGITAL EXHIBITIONS
How to Fake an Emerald in 1653
Historical re-creations reveal the working world of alchemists.
NEWS
New Mineral Exhibition Unveiled at Packed Opening Celebration
Ribbon cutting officially opens ‘Earthly Matters’ and brand-new gift shop.
IN THE MEDIA
‘PhillyVoice’ Article
Glowing minerals and a meteorite will now be on permanent display at the Science History Institute.
DISTILLATIONS MAGAZINE
The Rocks at the Top of the World
Vanadium was a rare metal, but for 100 years after its first discovery in 1801 no one cared—until a chemist discovered it strengthened steel.
