How do Geodes Form?

Unfilled geodes begin as bubbles or hollow spaces inside volcanic or sedimentary rock.

These cavities can form from gas bubbles in cooling lava or from pockets left by organic material (like shells or plant matter) that later decayed. Over time, mineral-rich groundwater seeps into these empty spaces. In some cases, the mineral solution never fills the entire space. The result is an unfilled geode: a hollow nodule lined with sparkling crystals, often with striking color and symmetry. The growth process can take thousands to millions of years, depending on the surrounding environment and the minerals involved.

What makes unfilled geodes so intriguing is their contrast—plain and unassuming on the outside, yet dazzling and mysterious within. Each one is a sealed time capsule of slow, beautiful geological change. No two are ever exactly alike, making them prized not only by collectors but also by anyone who enjoys nature’s hidden wonders.

Cracking one open is like opening a surprise gift from the Earth—revealing a secret beauty formed in complete darkness, deep underground.

The Shrinking Glaciers of Western Canada

Well, first of all, this is me, an old man of 72 going on 73. But, I'm still vertical!!

A few weeks ago I had the chance to travel to the Jasper, AB area to check out the Columbia Ice Fields and associated Glaciers in the area. Over my shoulder you can see the white, remaining bits of a Glacier which used to fill the entire valley.

Going there was a mixture of happiness and sadness. As a Geologist, I was certainly happy to see a few Glaciers. However, a lot of sadness was mixed in, because I was at this very spot about 50 years ago, as a young man, and the Glacier behind me was 3 to 4 times larger.

Does anyone believe Global Warming is not happening? If so, you better wake up and smell the coffee.

Yellowstone National Park & Geology

Yellowstone National Park's supervolcano remains a subject of scientific interest, with its last major eruption occurring approximately 640,000 years ago. Recent studies have identified a volatile-rich magma cap about 3.8 kilometers beneath the surface, which may help prevent large eruptions by trapping heat and pressure .news.com.auscitechdaily.com+2people.com+2news.rice.edu+2

On May 31, 2025, a small hydrothermal eruption was recorded at Black Diamond Pool in Biscuit Basin—the first since a significant explosion in July 2024 that ejected steam and debris, leading to area closures . These hydrothermal events, while dramatic, are not indicative of impending volcanic activity. The U.S. Geological Survey reports that seismicity, ground deformation, and gas emissions remain at normal background levels .sacbee.com+3mrt.com+3volcanoes.usgs.gov+3apnews.com

Old Faithfull

Yellowstone continues to be closely monitored, ensuring both scientific understanding and visitor safety.