Inside the Hollow Geode

A geode is a hollow rock hiding crystals inside.

The name geode comes from Ancient Greek meaning earthlike.

Groundwater deposits dissolved minerals slowly on the inside surface.

Iron oxide and cobalt yield reds, yellows or purples.

Quartz may appear colourless, white, or purple as amethyst.

Large amethyst-lined geodes are found in basalts of Uruguay.

Geodes are common in formations across the United States.

In Somerset, England, locals call geodes potato stones.

Completely solid rocks are classified as nodules, not geodes.

The Pulpi Geode was discovered in 1999 in Spain.

The cavity measured 8.0 by 1.8 by 1.7 metres.

Five tons of rock blocked the entrance to prevent looters.

Small groups now visit the cave with a tour guide.