AGAMS Monthly Geology News — May 2026
Image created with AI to illustrate an emerald crystal cluster for AGAMS Monthly Geology News.
Gem of the Month: Emerald
Emerald, May’s birthstone, is a brilliant green variety of beryl colored by chromium or vanadium. Treasured for over 4,000 years, emeralds symbolize renewal, growth, and spring.
- Color: Bright to deep green
- Hardness: 7.5–8
- Where Found: Colombia, Zambia, Brazil, North Carolina
- Fun Fact: Natural inclusions inside emeralds are called jardin (“garden”).
Image created with AI to illustrate a fossilized mosasaur tooth for AGAMS Monthly Geology News.
Fossil of the Month: Mosasaur Teeth
Mosasaur teeth belonged to massive marine reptiles that ruled the oceans during the Late Cretaceous. Their sharp, conical teeth are among the most popular fossils for collectors.
- Age: ~70–66 million years old
- Where Found: Morocco, Kansas, South Dakota
- Fun Fact: Mosasaurs shed teeth throughout their lives, so isolated teeth are common fossil finds.
Earth Science News — May Highlights
- Rare Blue Diamond Discovery — A vivid blue diamond was uncovered in South Africa, colored by trace boron.
Read more
- Iceland Volcanic Activity Continues — The Reykjanes Peninsula experienced another series of small eruptions.
Icelandic Met Office update
- Mars Rover Sedimentary Clues — NASA’s Perseverance rover detected fine-layered sediment that may indicate ancient lake cycles.
NASA mission update
AGAMS Spotlight — May
Field Trip Recap: The May trip at Graves Mountain was a success! It was the biggest dig ever! Over 2,000 attendees over the weekend. Attendees finding rutile, kyanite, iridescent hematite, lazulite, quartz and a lot more. Welcome to the adventure.
Kids Corner Mini‑Feature — May
Try This at Home: Kids can grow their own crystals using borax or salt dissolved in hot water. Suspend a pipe cleaner shape and watch crystals form over several days.
Fun Fact: Some minerals grow inside geodes, forming crystals in hollow cavities.
Upcoming Events
- Monthly Meeting: Friday, May 15
- Next Field Trip: June date TBA