Geology is more than simply knowing what you just tripped over. Rocks symbolize our planet’s long, colorful history. But, as we all know, rocks that are pretty are also rare and, therefore, very expensive (enter an economics lesson about supply vs. demand). Purple amethyst is likely worth thousands of dollars because it takes billions of years to form. The good news is, now you and your kids can make your own … well, sort of.
1 In small bowls, mix glue and food coloring of different colors (don’t forget purple to recreate an amethyst).
2 Now pour in sea salt and mix quickly, shaping balls to look uneven and random, like real rocks.
3 While your salt balls are wet and look like raw cookie dough, sprinkle glitter on top.
4 Let dry overnight and spray pair the bottom of each rock once it’s dry to add a finishing, realistic touch.
The Sci Behind the DIY
A geode – which means ‘Earth-like’ in Greek – is created when dissolved minerals settle into the hollow areas of soil, like animal burrows or tree roots or even bubbles of volcanic rock. The minerals harden inside and eventually – over millions, even billions of years – form a shell that covers the surface of the hollow. From the outside, a geode looks like a regular rock, but break it open and BOOM! Brilliant, colorful crystals abound! Your faux creations resemble what it would look like if you cracked open a real geode.
Sure, these may not be real stones like amethyst, quartz or calcite, but they’re just as dazzling and fun. You can put your sparkly homemade stones inside Easter eggs, plant them in your garden to grow a beanstalk that pierces the clouds (imagination required) or wear them as rings, earrings, and necklaces. You can find all kinds of jewelry-making essentials at any craft store.
Just for fun, we recommend downloading a sparkling app and rocking on with your fab selfie!
WOW, great idea for decorations!!!!
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