Education

At the New York State Museum we have one of the largest collections of New York minerals. Have your kids learn about minerals and grow their own crystal structure!

Amphiboles are complex mineral compositions that are found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. Go behind the scenes with the Curator of Geology, Marian Lupulescu, as he discusses amphiboles here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOjH0snwYpk .

Try an at-home science experiment: Rock Candy!
Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic solids that can grow and crystalize in water solutions. Create your own edible crystal structure using just water, sugar and string.
Ingredients: 2 cups water, 4 cups sugar, option to add food coloring or flavoring extract. You will also need a glass jar and a thread or skewer to grow the crystals
Instructions: In a pot boil water and sugar one cup at a time. Stir until sugar is dissolved. Cool for 10 minutes and transfer into glass jar. Lower the string or skewer into the jar without touching the bottom. Cover jar with plastic wrap or paper towel and let it sit undisturbed. Crystals should start forming within 5 hours and you can allow them to grow until desired size.

While you wait, explore minerals in your home using this interactive tool: http://www.mineralogy4kids.org/minerals-your-house or visit the New York State Museum's "Minerals of New York" webpage for more information on our collections and fun facts about New York State's minerals: http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/exhibitions/ongoing/minerals-new-york-0