Ever wonder just what a mineral is, or how it’s formed? You’ll have all these questions answered at the Geology and Mineralogy Gallery. There’s nearly 600 remarkable mineral treasures on display at the Geology and Mineralogy Gallery, including 20 giant crystals.

You’ll arrive at the sight of giant quartz, weighing two to three tons each, and large geodes containing thousands of small crystals of amethyst. Learn more about them in a film that recalls their discovery in Brazil to their arrival in the museum in 1983.

Alongside the natural wonder of minerals in their pure form, you’ll have the chance to see some rare crown jewels, including the grand sapphire of Louis XIV, the large opal of Charles X, and the diamond inlaid snuff box of Alexander I.

While dazzling beauty is around every bend, you’ll also have the chance to learn fascinating insights about how these rare stones are formed.