TIP: Another similar issue with geodes is they are often dyed. But how to identify dyed geodes? It can be a bit complicated so I wrote a simple guide on how to identify dyed geodes, feel free to read it here: What is fake is the pretense of it being a ‘geode’, since the main factor that defines a geode is the process by which the crystal interior is formed within the cavity without any intervention by humans. In this case, it would be a fake geode with a synthetic, lab-grown interior. Even expert gemologists, mineral collectors, and paleontologists have been fooled by how convincing these imitations can be. Rubies are formed of a mineral called corundum, comprised of aluminum oxide. The red color is caused by traces of chromium. Corundum also forms sapphire in many colors, which generally come from trace mixtures of iron, titanium, and chromium. Some geodes and gems are lab-grown, which is not a particularly bad thing since it helps lower the planet’s resource depletion, while still providing geode interiors of relatively good quality. Still, you should always know the true value of what you are purchasing.

The National Geographic Kids placemats are beautifully illustrated, easy-to-clean and full-colour. It can be used at the table or to decorate your room! NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PLACEMATS

Sometimes this interior is not as marvelous in appearance and can contain types of sediment such as chalcedony and microcrystalline instead of glimmering gems. While these may look gorgeous to the eye, there is no value other than having them as an art piece. While these do still take time, talent, and labor, standard art materials are commonly used to make these. Synthetic gems have the same physical properties, chemical qualities, and visual appearance as the real deal. Precious gems are formed in different ways and composed of different materials, meaning their appearances vary vastly.

But, there are many degrees of ‘fake’, and there are a few factors that are telling or some of these manufacturing methods. Synthetic or Lab-grownGeodes can form with a variety of crystals inside and National Geographic has searched the globe to bring you the best variety of geodes. This earth science kit provides a hands-on science experiment that you and your children are guaranteed to love. Discover genuine crystal treasures in the world’s best geodes kit or build and erupt your own volcano. Create your own galaxy and explore space with the lumenescent moon and stars kit or excavate genuine dinosaur fossils. Make a glowing slime lab or uncover amethyst, quartz and tiger’s eye for your gemstone collection. Find three perfectly preserved insect specimens in the real bug dig kit or grow your own glow-in-the-dark crystals.

The contrast between an ordinary exterior and a spectacular shimmery interior has baffled the public, and geodes are most commonly used as scientific artifacts, natural décor, jewelry, and ornaments. Can Geodes Be Fake? Difference from Real Geodes Having privately owned geodes has become a massive trend over the past decade. With more and more people having the funds and amenities for these natural pieces of art, and nature only being able to produce a certain amount of them, resources have become extremely limited. Many people who collect these specimens do not necessarily have an in-depth knowledge of these differences as opposed to those who receive and study them. Emeralds are formed of a mineral called beryl whose chemical formula is a complex mix of beryllium, aluminum, silicon, and oxygen. The color comes from additional traces of chromium and vanadium. Different trace elements can produce other colors, allowing beryl to form semiprecious stones such as aquamarine. Diamonds, made of carbon atoms, are the hardest natural substance found on Earth. Formed under extremely high pressure hundreds of miles underground, they are found in very few locations around the world. Graphite is also made of carbon atoms, but with a different arrangement—explaining why diamond is the hardest mineral and graphite (used in pencil lead) is one of the softest.The interior cavity is what makes geodes so special, as it is lined with various types of mineral materials. These minerals create bands lining the interior cavity. This is due to the fact that synthetic gems are created by taking the knowledge of how the gem is formed naturally thanks to science, finding the same mineral contents as the genuine version needs, and manufacturing it in a reduced amount of time. This can result in an imitation geode or gem that is visibly identical to those created in nature. Still did not find the answer to your answers about the differences between real and fake geodes? Find frequently asked questions in the section below: Where Are Fake Geodes Produced Most Often?