Formation – Optional Activity 1

Salt Crystal Growing

Introduction

What are you doing?

You’re becoming a crystal scientist by growing your own salt crystals from scratch, watching them form day by day just like they do in nature.

What does it show?

This experiment demonstrates how crystals form when water evaporates and leaves behind concentrated minerals. You’ll see firsthand how slow, steady conditions create the most beautiful crystals.

Why is this important?

Understanding crystal formation is fundamental to gemology because it explains how precious gems like diamonds, emeralds, and rubies formed deep in the Earth over millions of years. The same basic principles that grow your salt crystals also created the world’s most valuable gemstones!

Materials Needed

• 1 cup water
• 3-4 tablespoons table salt (plus 2-3 extra tablespoons)
• Cotton string
• Pencil
• Clear glass jar
• Small rock or bead (optional “starter crystal”)
• Paper towel
• Magnifying glass
• Ruler
• Lab notebook and pencil

Safety Requirements

• Adult supervision required for heating water
• Handle hot water with extreme care
• Work on stable surface to prevent spills

Step-by-Step Instructions

Phase 1: Create Your Crystal Solution (15 minutes)

1. Have an adult heat 1 cup of water until hot but not boiling (steaming is perfect)
2. While stirring constantly, slowly add salt one tablespoon

…

---

---