Snowflakes vary by size and shape but exactly how many different patterns are there and what weather features influence their ...

Chalcedonies include many types of cryptocrystalline quartz gems and feature a number of different colors. Geologists can tell a chalcedony from the arrangement and structure of its crystals.

"This is an exciting prospect given that there are millions of different types of crystals already known and many more yet to be discovered," Professor McMurtrie said. "Elasticity is ubiquitous ...