Smithsonian Voices

From the Smithsonian Museums

A slab of multicolored, sedimentary rock is pictured with vibrant trees and water surrounding it.

Meet the Scientist Venturing to Remote Canada in Search of the Earth’s Oldest Rocks

Smithsonian researcher Wriju Chowdhury is part of an expedition searching for 4-billion-year-old crystals that could uncover the secrets behind Earth’s early history

A blue bird with white and grey spots lies against a white background.

Celebrate the Holiday Season with the Museum’s Stunning Collection of Blue Specimens

Tsavorite 116.76 carat Square-Cushion Smithsonian Dark Background.jpg

The Story Behind the Smithsonian’s Newest Gem: the Exquisite Lion of Merelani

Silver tweezers hold a small diamond against a white background.

Five Functions of Diamonds Beyond Rings

Smooth pearls in the shape of orbs and ovals are usually created by bivalves, like mussels, in pearl farms. As with all gems, the less blemishes they have, the more valuable they are. (Chip Clark, Smithsonian)

The True Story Behind How Pearls Are Made

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This Fall at the Museum: Fossils, Fossils and More Fossils!

Check Out These Wondrous Objects on Display Before They Return to the Museum’s Collection

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