Geodes

Geodes demand centuries to be created and illustrate the marvelous feats possible in the natural world. Formed from cavities created by the consistent flow of water, geodes are an eternally entertaining geological formation for all ages from young children to seasoned adult connoisseurs.

A brilliant mineral manifestation, geodes form in the cavities of sedimentary or ingenious rock left behind by an air bubble. The shell of these stones is porous, and when water passes over them, the mineral content of that water can seep into the pores, leaving deposits in the interior void. Mineral crystals then slowly build over time, some taking thousands or even millions of years to form.

Resulting from this extended process is a breathtakingly beautiful network of crystals as sparkly as a gem-encrusted piece of jewelry. A perfect collectible for the geologist or gem lover, geodes are entrancing with their universal uniqueness.

Quick Facts

• The Midwestern United States is one of the most abundant locations for harvesting geodes. The Warsaw Formation, which spans Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri, is renowned for its geode offerings
• The most common colors of geodes are clear and amethyst purple. Less frequent are icy blue celestite, grey-yellow dolomite, and often multi-colored agate
• The Empress of Uruguay is the world's largest recorded amethyst geode. Measuring more than 11 feet long and weighing 5,000 pounds, the Empress has been on display in Australia since 2007