Earth Science

If you have ever wondered which state has the most lakes, the answer depends on how you count them. Some states contain millions of unnamed ponds and smaller bodies of freshwater, while others are famous for thousands of named lakes used for boating, fishing, and swimming. (Yes, thousands.)

By Grant Virellan

Devon Island looks like another planet, but it sits firmly on Earth in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. This largest uninhabited island lies in Nunavut Canada, north of Baffin Island in the far north of Arctic Canada.

By Grant Virellan

The tundra plants that survive at the top of the world are masters of adaptation.

By Grant Virellan

The Arctic Ocean sits at the top of the planet, wrapped around the geographic North Pole and within by the Arctic Circle.

By Grant Virellan

The Arctic plants that survive near the North Pole thrive in one of the harshest environments on Earth. Extremely cold temperatures, strong winds, snow, and ice limit tree growth and shape unique plant communities across the Arctic tundra.

By Grant Virellan

If you're wondering what state has the most mountains, it depends on how you define "mountains." Some states have the most named mountain ranges or mountainous land area, whereas others have the outright highest mountain peaks.

By Grant Virellan

Climbers chase records, not just views. And while the most dangerous mountain to climb isn't always the tallest, it is where ambition meets nature's limits.

By Grant Virellan

From ancient amulets to modern engagement rings, different types of gemstones have always caught the human eye.

By Grant Virellan

You might think tropical nations or far-flung archipelagos dominate the list, but when asking what country has the most islands, the answer may surprise you.

By Grant Virellan

Looking to add earthy elegance to your jewelry box? Brown gemstones offer a unique and elegant alternative to more traditional colored gemstones.

By Grant Virellan

Red gemstones bring a bold pop of color to any jewelry collection. From vibrant red hues to deep crimson tones, these stones have captivated wearers for centuries.

By Grant Virellan

Yellow gemstones add a pop of sunshine to any jewelry collection. These stones, ranging from bright lemon to deep golden hues, can suit nearly every skin tone and style.

By Grant Virellan

Pink gemstones blend science and sparkle like few other minerals. Whether you're drawn to the feminine hue for its metaphysical properties or just its stunning aesthetic, there's a pink stone for every style and budget.

By Grant Virellan

Some gems dazzle with rainbow brilliance. Others whisper their power in deep, dark silence. Black gemstones aren't flashy, but they hold serious weight in style, symbolism and geology.

By Grant Virellan

Purple gemstones aren't just for royalty, but their regal vibe is hard to ignore. From ancient talismans to modern crystal "therapy," purple stones have long held a prized place in our jewelry collections and cultural traditions.

By Grant Virellan

Green is one of nature’s most captivating colors, and green gemstones bring that energy into jewelry with rich, varied tones. From deep emerald green to pale green and bluish green, these stones offer unmatched visual appeal.

By Grant Virellan

From deep blue to light sky blue, blue gemstones offer a diverse range of hues that evoke serenity, power, and timeless beauty.

By Grant Virellan

Rocks might look simple, but they tell an ancient story of Earth’s fiery depths, surface shifts and biological processes.

By Grant Virellan

California is known for its beaches and bustling cities, but what really gives the Golden State its rugged charm are the mountain ranges in California.

By Grant Virellan

Europe is a continent of dramatic elevations and scenic diversity, and the mountain ranges in Europe are a testament to that.

By Grant Virellan

From the Arctic Circle to the warm climes of the southern border, the mountain ranges in the U.S. offer some of the most stunning, geologically diverse landscapes in North America.

By Grant Virellan

Spanning thousands of miles across the heart of Asia and Eastern Europe, the steppe is one of Earth's most expansive and ecologically important biomes. These vast, flat grassy plains stretch from Hungary in the west to Mongolia and northern China in the east, forming what is known as the Eurasian Steppe.

By Grant Virellan

With its vivid red waters and stunning surrounding terrain, Lake Natron is one of East Africa's most mesmerizing and otherworldly natural wonders.

By Grant Virellan

A subduction zone can shake things up — literally. These geological features are responsible for some of the most intense earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and tsunamis.

By Yara Simón

The United States is home to some truly spectacular lakes. Whether considering the massive Great Lakes themselves or deep alpine gems like Lake Tahoe, with its crystal-clear waters, America is well-stocked with many sizable bodies of water.

By Zach Taras