Rocks and minerals

Geology is crucial to understanding the world around us, including how our planet evolved and what might happen to it in the future. Dig deeper to discover more about this intriguing science and the Museum’s work within it.

  • Earth-lab: rocks
    Earth-lab datasite

    Find out about fossils, minerals and rocks discovered in your local area with the Earth Lab database.

  • Diamonds occurring naturally in 3 types of rock, from Namaqualand, South Africa and Siberia.
    Diamonds

    Diamonds are best known for their dazzling appearance but there is far more to them than that.  Find out how they are formed, where they come from, and how they can be used in science.

  • Kryptonite
    Kryptonite discovery  - 23/04/2007 (video)

    Mineral curator, Mike Rumsey, talks about the identification of the new mineral matching kryptonite's unique chemistry.