CRYSTAL

Different crystals have different shapes and forms because of the:

• regular repeating pattern of atoms
• Geometric pattern of the outside reflects the inside atomic arrangement

Only if a mineral is allowed to grow without interference from other minerals will it form crystals. Minerals "grow," or crystallize, from many types of solutions. They may precipitate from evaporating sea water or crystallize from magmas when lava cools. While growing, minerals may develop a distinct crystal form with smooth, flat planes called crystal faces. The geometric pattern of the crystal faces reflects the internal atomic arrangement of the crystal structure. This is one of the most important things about a mineral.

Monoclinic

Orthorhombic

Triclinic

Hexagonal

Texagonal

Cubic