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Ichthyosaur

Ichthyosaur, meaning “fish lizards,” were a fascinating group of marine reptiles that thrived during the Mesozoic Era. Emerging in the Early Triassic period, not long after the Permian-Triassic mass extinction, they rapidly evolved to fill newly available marine niches. Their evolutionary journey, which spanned nearly 150 million years, showcases a remarkable case of convergent evolution

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Howlite

Howlite was first identified in 1868 by Canadian chemist and geologist Henry How, who encountered the mineral in Nova Scotia. Initially referred to as silico-boro-calcite, it was later renamed Howlite by American mineralogist James Dwight Dana in honour of its discoverer. Alternate names and trade terms include: Composition, Physical Characteristics and Varieties Howlite is a

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Hematite

The name “Hematite” originates from the Greek word “haima,” meaning “blood,” due to its red streak when powdered. This iron oxide mineral has been known by various names throughout history, including “bloodstone” (not to be confused with heliotrope) and “iron rose.” In ancient texts, it was often referred to as the “stone of warriors” due

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