Geodes are a compelling mineral formation that have been fascinating geologists and rock enthusiasts for decades! Their intriguing structure is well known for its hollow interior with a sparkling crystal lining. Geodes can form many different crystals, including Amethyst, Quartz, Calcite, Citrine and more. Keep reading to learn more about the geological processes that create these amazing geological phenomena. 

Geodes are specimens of a hollow mineral found within limestones and some shale. They can form in a variety of different ways, through volcanic formation or sedimentary formation. Volcanic geodes form in regions with high volcanic activity. When a volcano erupts and lava emerges there can be gaseous bubbles inside the lava. When the lava cools and solidifies, the gas bubbles create a hollow space and allow mineral-rich groundwater, often containing dissolved minerals like calcite, quartz, or agate, to percolate through cracks and pores in the hollow rock. This groundwater slowly deposits the minerals on the inner lining of the geode, gradually filling the cavity with sparkling crystals. 

The sedimentary geological process forms geodes when mineral-rich groundwater percolates sedimentary rocks that naturally formed in a cavity-like shape. This hollow rock can occur when an animal burrow, old tree roots or any natural void in the earth is accompanied by limestone, shale or dolomite in the ore. Then, like the volcanic formation process, the mineral-rich groundwater seeps into the cavity, depositing the minerals onto the interior walls allowing crystallization!

Geodes get their name from the Greek word geoides, meaning “earthlike”. Geodes form all around the world but the most notable locations are Mexico, Brazil, Morocco, Madagascar and Australia. The Pulpi geode is the largest geode ever found and was discovered in Pilar de Jaravia, Spain in 1999, it was over 36 feet in length and has large transparent calcite crystals inside!

Energetically, geodes are one of the best examples of “don't judge a book by its cover” and shows one that you never know what is on the inside until you look. Geodes also represent the deep meaning of perspective and how one should try to put one-self in others shoes before making a harsh judgment. 

The type of geode can also change its energetic properties. For example an Amethyst geode would have the same qualities as an Amethyst (peace, serenity, aids with insomnia and more!). Check out our Amethyst, Quartz, Celestite and other blogs to see what other energetic properties your geode contains. 

Do not use crystal healing in place of your medicine/healthcare.