Earth Science

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

Although most of the highest mountains in the world are in Asia (looking at you, Mount Everest and Himalayas), the United States is home to some of the most breathtaking and impressive mountain ranges in the world.

By Talon Homer

American lakes are a vital feature of the country's landscape and cultural identity; from the Great Lakes in the Upper Penninsula to the picturesque Ozarks of the Midwest, citizens have flocked to these large freshwater sources for trade, natural resources and top-notch recreational activities.

By Mitch Ryan

If a random stranger were to stop you on the street and say, "Excuse me, but what's the tallest mountain in the world?" you will probably give them the correct answer: Mount Everest.

By Zach Taras

Waterfalls are easily among the most spectacular natural wonders of the planet. The constant flow of water can suggest infinity, and the raw sensations - the thundering roar, the rising mist, the sheer volume of water - attest to nature's grandeur and power.

By Zach Taras

The United States has some impressive lakes, including some of the biggest bodies of freshwater in the world. If you're looking at a map, however, you can't necessarily determine how deep any of these lakes are. So if it's depth you seek, read on to learn about the deepest lake in the U.S., as well as several of the runners-up.

By Zach Taras

The Andes mountains span over 4,300 miles along South America's western edge, traversing seven countries from Venezuela to Chile. Famous for its towering peaks like Aconcagua and ancient ruins such as Machu Picchu, the Andes are a captivating mix of natural wonders and historical treasures.

By Desiree Bowie

Imagine walking through a dusty, arid landscape when you stumble upon a seemingly ordinary rock. Its rough exterior might not catch the eye, but what lies within surely will. Geodes are one of nature's most spectacular treasures, offering a glimpse into the geological processes that shape our Earth.

By Clarissa Mitton

Winding through the South Carolina low country, the Cooper River is a reed-lined haven for sportfish and shorebirds. The waterway originates in Berkeley County's Lake Moultrie. From there, it proceeds all the way down to Charleston, where it merges with the Ashley and the Wando to form that city's world-famous harbor. (Ever hear of Fort Sumter?)

By Mark Mancini