{"title":"BACKTOSCHOOL 30% Off Sale!","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"medieval-chain-mail","title":"Medieval Chain Mail Specimen","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis \u003cem\u003eauthentic\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003efour-in-one medieval chain mail\u003c\/strong\u003e set \u003c\/span\u003eincludes \u003cstrong\u003efive (5) connected rings\u003c\/strong\u003e, as assembled \u003cem\u003ehundreds\u003c\/em\u003e of years ago by medieval craft workers. This relatively simple pattern was the standard in Europe for hundreds of years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe set is enclosed in a specimen jar with a removable top which arrives in a handsome, glass-topped riker box case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\".  A small informational card is also included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rings come from the fragments of several ruined garments, all dating to the 15th Century (CE). This period is considered the sunset of chain mail in Europe, as advanced plate armor completely supplanted mail. As you might expect, each garment has a unique braid and all the rings were forged and assembled by hand.  So there will be variations in size, color, and texture.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7001486721057,"sku":"80-113-4505-878-63","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/chain-mail-braid-03-display.jpg?v=1666802192"},{"product_id":"mosasaur-tooth-specimen","title":"Mosasaur Teeth - Classic Boxed Specimens","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a complete Mosasaur fossil tooth!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eClassic Boxed Mosasaur Tooth Sizing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMedium: Approximately 1-1.5\" (2.5-3cm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNew! Large\u003c\/strong\u003e: Approximately 1.5-2\" (3-5cm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNew! XL\u003c\/strong\u003e: Approximately 2-3\" (5-7.5cm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note: All fossil teeth will show some sign of repair.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach fossil tooth includes a small information card about the specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eMedium\u003c\/strong\u003e size teeth are enclosed in a handsome, glass-topped riker box case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eLarge\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eXL\u003c\/strong\u003e size are too thick for a riker. Each fossil tooth will be individually wrapped and shipped in a sturdy carton.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Large 1.5\"-2\"","offer_id":31249749147731,"sku":"80-112-0032-201-36","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium 1-1.5\"","offer_id":14724733239331,"sku":"80-112-0006-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Extra Large 2\"-3\"","offer_id":31249759404115,"sku":"80-112-0033-201-36","price":69.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/large-mosasaur-white-main-01.jpg?v=1575217633"},{"product_id":"mini-museum-fordite","title":"Polished Fordite","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/fordite-front_large.png?v=1512408843\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA larger version of the Fordite specimen in the Third Edition! Tumbled and polished, these unique Fordite chips measure roughly 1\" though the shape, color, and patterns vary widely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen is enclosed in a handsome, glass-topped riker box case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eAbout Fordite\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bright, jewel-like layers of Fordite are comprised of thousands of layers of automobile paint. Drop by drop, each layer represents a different vehicle as it passed through the paint booth in the factory. Heated to hundreds of degrees, the layers fused together to form one of the most beautiful and completely accidental man-made composites.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen in the Mini Museum comes from the Ford Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Missouri. The plant opened in 1951 and since 1957 the 4,700,000-square-foot facility has been home to ten generations of F-Series Pickup Truck production as well as many other vehicles.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50076161735,"sku":"80-113-4507-201-36","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-fordite-square-white-1000.jpg?v=1501873152"},{"product_id":"insect-in-amber","title":"Insect in Amber - Baltic Amber","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis Insect in Amber specimen is a self-contained bead of Baltic amber dating to 40,000,000 to 60,000,000 years old, each with at least one insect trapped inside! It's a unique and beautiful piece of history from the Eocene period. These amber pieces come from the Baltic Sea, where a treasure trove of fossilized insects can be found. Each piece comes with a display case along with an informational card that serves as certificate of authenticity. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":7000977342497,"sku":"80-107-6005-201-40","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":40576883654739,"sku":"80-112-0260-201-40","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":53754803399,"sku":"80-107-6005-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/baltic-amber-medium-in-hand-1200-04.jpg?v=1680017579"},{"product_id":"mini-museum-megalodon-tooth","title":"Megalodon Tooth (Boxed Sizes) Natural","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe Megalodon shark dominated the oceans of the world for over 20 million years.  Reaching sizes upwards of 18m (59ft) in length, the largest Megalodon jaw reconstruction measures 3.3m (11ft) across and 2.7m (9ft) tall. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/meg-hex-lg-01_1024x1024.jpg?v=1607531654\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Large Megalodon Teeth displaying a range of unique colors and textures.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis item is a \u003cstrong\u003ecomplete\u003c\/strong\u003e Megalodon tooth. Each tooth is absolutely unique and will vary in color and texture. Teeth may also show marks of life wear and indentations common with concretions built up over millions of years. The pictures on this page are typical examples of the teeth in our collection. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBoxed Megalodon Tooth Sizing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/meg-size-shart-with-text-04_1024x1024.jpg?v=1607531043\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Small and Medium Megalodon tooth ship in our classic, glass-topped riker box display cases. The cases measure 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". The Large and Extra Large Sizes ship in a sturdy carton as they are too large for a case. Besides, you'll want to hold them just like Grant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/meg-xl-in-hand-02_1024x1024.jpg?v=1607531285\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Grant holding an Extra Large Megalodon tooth.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA small information card is also included with each specimen. The card serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cimg data-mce-fragment=\"1\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/meg-xl-onbook-02_1024x1024.jpg?v=1607531423\" data-mce-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/meg-xl-onbook-02_1024x1024.jpg?v=1607531423\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: An Extra Large Megalodon Tooth with card, hanging out with Darwin.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Small and Medium teeth are individually wrapped to prevent sliding in the case. On receipt, simply open the top of the case and unwrap the tooth and then arrange the tooth inside the case as pictured here on the site. We also recommend placing the bubble wrap under the soft, white lining of the case. This extra padding will keep the tooth snug in the case after the lid is secured. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe style of the image used on the front of the card may also vary as we change the designs from time to time.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small - 1\" to 1.5\" Includes Display Case","offer_id":41308018606163,"sku":"80-107-6006-201-36","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium - 1.5\" to 2.5\" Includes Display Case","offer_id":7193441501217,"sku":"80-107-6006-201-41","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large - 2.5\" to 3.25\"","offer_id":41308035907667,"sku":"80-112-0105-201-36","price":129.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Extra Large - 3.25\" to 3.75\"","offer_id":41308049440851,"sku":"80-112-0106-201-36","price":169.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-meg-med-02-1000.jpg?v=1648149929"},{"product_id":"mini-museum-spinosaurus-tooth","title":"Spinosaurus Tooth - Classic Boxed Specimens","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/spinosaurus-tooth-ii-front_1024x1024.png?v=1611771403\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTopping out at just over 18m long (59ft), Spinosaurus is one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs ever discovered. This family of giant theropods also happens to be among the most surprising creatures in the fossil record.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis specimen is a complete crown and partial root of a real, fossilized Spinosaurus tooth from the Kem Kem fossil beds of Morocco. Small, Medium, and Large sizes come in our classic, glass-topped riker boxes while the XL size ships stand-alone in a sturdy carton. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":7050736173089,"sku":"80-106-6510-201-40","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":7050443915297,"sku":"80-106-6510-201-37","price":69.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":7050736893985,"sku":"80-106-6510-201-42","price":129.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Extra Large","offer_id":39371082367059,"sku":"80-112-0136-201-40","price":179.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/spinosaurus-ii-medium-riker-1000.jpg?v=1702134923"},{"product_id":"mini-museum-sr-71-fragment","title":"SR-71 Blackbird Fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a metallic fragment from SR-71 61-7956, also known as NASA 831. With 1,454 successful flights and 3,967.5 flight hours, this craft holds the record for the most flight time regularly soaring above 80,000 ft at speeds greater than Mach 3.2. It is also believed to be the single most photographed Blackbird aircraft.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan aria-label=\"\" class=\"c-mrkdwn__br\" data-stringify-type=\"paragraph-break\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTwo sizes of SR-71 material are available: a smaller 3-6mm variant and a larger triangular cut piece shaped like the outline of the aircraft.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan aria-label=\"\" class=\"c-mrkdwn__br\" data-stringify-type=\"paragraph-break\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaterial for this specimen is very limited, so we are entering our final run of SR-71 61-7956! Don't miss out!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small (3-6mm)","offer_id":53357431193972,"sku":"80-112-4508-201-36","price":69.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large (1cm)","offer_id":53359529001332,"sku":"80-112-0461-201-40","price":129.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/sr-71-desk-MAIN-001.jpg?v=1763743701"},{"product_id":"mini-museum-hindenburg-airship-skin","title":"Hindenburg Airship Skin","description":"\u003cp\u003e\"\u003cem\u003eOh, the humanity, all the passengers. screaming around here [...] \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e Listen, folks; I... I'm gonna have to stop for a minute because I've lost my voice. This is the worst thing I've ever witnessed.\u003c\/em\u003e\" - Herbert Morrison, WLS radio broadcaster at the scene of the disaster.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #000000;\"\u003eOn May 6, 1937, the Hindenburg burst into flames in what should have been a routine landing. The airship was kept aloft by 16 gas cell chambers, which were infamously filled with flammable hydrogen. A spark was all it took for the explosion to begin, which ripped through the Hindenburg in a matter of seconds.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis specimen is a swatch of canvas fabric from the airship skin of the Hindenburg. The specimen was acquired from one of the largest private collections of Hindenburg artifacts in the world. It was originally retrieved at the scene in 1937 by journalist Harry Kroh, a local reporter dispatched to cover what was expected to be a routine landing but turned into one of the most well-covered disasters in history.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSwatches vary in size and shape, but each measures \u003cem\u003eapproximately\u003c\/em\u003e one square centimeter in area. Swatches may exhibit uneven edges or have areas where the cloth beneath the aluminum doping is visible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen is enclosed in a handsome, glass-topped riker box case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: The swatch is enclosed in a small, specimen jar within the case. If you choose to remove the swatch from the jar, please be careful while handling. While the aluminum coating is still bright the fabric beneath is quite fragile.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":5063654080545,"sku":"80-113-4513-201-36","price":99.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/hindenburg-airship-skin-MAIN-001.jpg?v=1763743778"},{"product_id":"apollo-11-command-module-foil","title":"Apollo 11 Command Module Foil","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is an actual, mission-flown fragment of kapton foil from the Apollo 11 Command Module \u003cem\u003eColumbia\u003c\/em\u003e. This material helped protect Apollo astronauts Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins on their journey from Earth to the Moon and back. Salvaged after splashdown, this is a unique collectible from one of the greatest achievements in human history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen was recovered at the Johnson Space Center when the Columbia was decommissioned. It comes from the personal collection of retired NASA Production Control Engineer William R. Whipkey, who oversaw the decommissioning process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Kapton foil is enclosed in an acrylic cube with a magnified lid and includes a glass-topped display case, information card, and certificate of authenticity. The information card showcases images from the Apollo 11 mission, details about the journey, and a die-cut square that matches the size of the acrylic cube. Kapton foil is an aluminized polyimide film used for radiation reflection, and the specimen measures approximately 1mm x 1mm. The outermost layers of Columbia were installed with the aluminized side facing outwards to provide optimal reflection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis display is surprisingly affordable compared to similar items on the market, making it an excellent choice for collectors and space enthusiasts who want to own or share a piece of history at a great price.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs noted, the specimen measures approximately 1mm x 1mm and is enclosed in an acrylic cube with a magnified lid for easy viewing. The acrylic cube is housed inside a padded, glass-topped riker box display case measuring 5 1\/2\" x 6 1\/2\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe display includes an information card with a centerline die-cut square matching the dimensions of the acrylic cube. The card has four unique faces, including images from Apollo 11, details about the mission, and a certificate of authenticity. The die-cut design allows you to showcase the specimen inside the display case with any one of four different designs.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small (1mm x 1mm)","offer_id":51782402703732,"sku":"80-112-4002-201-33","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium (2mm x 2mm)","offer_id":51782402736500,"sku":"80-112-0405-201-40","price":276.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/1mm-apollo-11-whipkey-01-front_dde1c6a1-35f1-4792-9829-0a73f9174e12.jpg?v=1742243024"},{"product_id":"mini-museum-space-shuttle-tire","title":"Space Shuttle Columbia - Flown Nose Landing Gear Tire","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen comes from a mission-flown, Space Shuttle nose landing gear tire which was removed from service after the Space Shuttle Columbia's 13th mission, STS-52. The specimen is encased in an acrylic specimen jar and housed in a 4\" x 3\" x 1\" glass-topped riker box. A small information card is also included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe material is layered (in this case 20-ply) and highly irregular. Our target size is approximately 1x1 cm, but there will be variation in width, length, thickness, and texture. Some specimens may exhibit small metallic bands from the interior of the tire while others may be completely smooth. This makes each specimen absolutely unique.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13482496524323,"sku":"80-112-4004-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/space-shuttle-tire-outside-MAIN-002.jpg?v=1763743564"},{"product_id":"space-shuttle-columbia-tile","title":"Space Shuttle Columbia - Flown HRSI Tile Fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/shuttle-tile-front-sts-1-columbia_704ccdc4-fb91-4764-86fe-ccdfadee61d9_1024x1024.png?v=1646041801\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of the black, reaction cured glass coating of the HRSI Space Shuttle Tile which appears in the Fourth Edition of the Mini Museum.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNASA disposition paperwork accompanying the tile indicates it was removed after the Space Shuttle Columbia’s 7th mission, STS-61-C, which flew on January 12, 1986.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs pictured, the item is roughly the size of a standard Mini Museum specimen (4-5mm). The glass coating is very thin, so for protection, this item will be enclosed in an acrylic specimen jar. The jar is housed in a glass-topped riker display box measuring 4x3x1 (inches). A small information card will accompany the specimen, which also serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13482566287395,"sku":"80-112-4003-201-36","price":89.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/space-shuttle-columbia-tile-MAIN-002.jpg?v=1763743636"},{"product_id":"mammoth-tooth-fragment","title":"Woolly Mammoth Tooth - Riker Box Specimens","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA full-grown woolly mammoth, just one species of the genus \u003cem\u003eMammuthus\u003c\/em\u003e, stood 10 to 12 feet (3 to 3.5 m) at the shoulder, with a shaggy coat of hair. The woolly mammoth's hair provided a substantial advantage in the struggle to stay warm.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTheir high-crowned molars were pleated with ridges of enamel: somewhat similar to the dentition of the modern Asian elephant, but distinct from the fewer, diamond-shaped, enamel plates of the African elephant. The morphology of mammoth teeth and the distribution of mammoth remains suggests mammoths were predominantly grazers subsisting mainly upon grasses and sedges, a diverse biomass that the modern Arctic tundra doesn’t approach.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of a Woolly Mammoth fossilized tooth that was recovered from the bottom of the North Sea, in an area referred to as \"Doggerland.\" The item is housed in a glass-topped riker display box measuring 4x3x1\" and comes with a small photo card that also serves as a certificate of authenticity. The size can vary but is generally around 1\/2 inch.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39539199770707,"sku":"80-107-9093-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mammoth-tooth-MAIN-001.jpg?v=1760037465"},{"product_id":"concorde-jet-rotor","title":"Concorde Jet Rotor","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/concorde-front_large.png?v=1538247875\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of a high-pressure compressor vane taken from the jet engine of the Concorde. The original titanium vane was divided into long, thin slices using a high energy cutter, after which each slice was hand-polished and cut into the \"delta-wing\" shape you see here. This is the same process we used to produce the specimen in the Mini Museum itself, but this larger specimen measures approximately 1 cm in length.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note that this specimen is very sharp.\u003c\/strong\u003e We've enclosed it in an acrylic specimen jar for safety. The jar is housed in a glass-topped riker display box measuring 4x3x1 (inches). A small information card will accompany the specimen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Concorde\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"lead\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"I've always thought of the Concorde as a magical object, a symbol, a miracle.\" ~ Andrée Putman (1925-2013), legendary French designer responsible for the 1994 revamp of the Air France Concorde interior\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn January 1, 1976, the Concorde became the first supersonic commercial aircraft in history. With a Space Age design that signaled the arrival of the future, the joint project between British and French engineers fulfilled a decades-old dream of faster-than-sound passenger travel. For nearly thirty years, these magnificent aircraft cruised at altitudes twice as high as their subsonic counterparts, twice the speed of sound, and with ticket prices twice the price of their most expensive luxury rivals. While the program operated above cost, the profits were not enough to save the Concorde as it reached the end of its technical lifespan. The last Concorde flight occurred on October 24, 2003.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a fragment from a flown, high-pressure compressor vane, an integral part of the four turbojet engines that allowed the Concorde to cruise above Mach 2. Produced by Britain's Rolls Royce and Snecma Moteurs of France, the Olympus 593 Mk 610 were the most powerful transport certified engines in the world at the time of their introduction.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13482637721635,"sku":"80-113-4516-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-concorde-1000_e545ed2d-1f11-4bfc-a257-b83ed064de2c.jpg?v=1538658151"},{"product_id":"lusitania-deck-chair","title":"Lusitania Deck Chair Riker Box Specimen","description":"\u003cp\u003eBriefly the world’s largest ship, the luxurious RMS\u003cem\u003e Lusitania\u003c\/em\u003e was also one of the fastest ships of its era. On May 1st, 1915, the Lusitania departed from New York on a voyage to Liverpool with 1,959 passengers aboard. The cargo hold of the Lusitania held other passengers as well: 4.2 million rifle rounds, 1,250 shrapnel shell cases, and 18 fuse cases, all destined for the battlefields of the Great War. Though the Royal Navy had promised to escort the Lusitania for part of the journey, the escort never appeared.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis specimen is a piece of an oak deck chair that once graced the decks of the RMS \u003cem\u003eLusitania\u003c\/em\u003e. The chair was among the untold tonnes of flotsam and hundreds of bodies that washed ashore in Cobh, Ireland (known as Queenstown at the time) and was held on public display for decades. It was acquired at auction from Christie’s London office in late 2016.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Riker Box Specimen","offer_id":39555225452627,"sku":"80-113-4515-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-lusitania-1000.jpg?v=1538248739"},{"product_id":"break-up-of-pangea-geological-specimen","title":"Breakup of Pangea - Display Card","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a polished diabase fragment from the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province deposits of Eastern North America. Similar to the specimen in the Acrylic version of the Mini Museum, but much larger, the item is \u003c\/span\u003eaffixed to an informational card that includes the Mini Museum Seal of Authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe source rock was donated by the Luck Stone quarry adjacent to the Manassas U.S. Civil War battlefield in Northern Virginia. The quarry is a magnificent location where it is possible to clearly see one of the rift valleys that tore through the ancient supercontinent and might once have become the Atlantic Ocean.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eℹ️ For more details about Pangea, please check out our long-form article \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/shop.minimuseum.com\/blogs\/specimens\/pangaea-the-prehistoric-supercontinent\"\u003e\"Pangaea: The Prehistoric Supercontinent\"\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13482690478115,"sku":"80-112-0519-201-40","price":10.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/pangea-card-MAIN-004.jpg?v=1771346938"},{"product_id":"stonehenge-bluestone-quarry-slab","title":"Stonehenge Bluestone Quarry Slab","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a custom-cut mini slab of bluestone recovered downstream from the quarry at Craig Rhos-y-Felin located on the northern flank of the Preseli Mountains near Pembrokeshire, Wales. Recent petrographic studies have closely linked chippings from these dolerite bluestones to the bluestones installed at Stonehenge roughly 4,500 years ago.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach mini slab is unique and varies in size and shape. As pictured, the slab is housed in a small acrylic specimen jar within a glass-topped Riker display case. The case measures 4\"x 3 \" x 1\". A small information card is also included.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13482747068451,"sku":"80-113-4514-201-36","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-stonehenge-2022-1000.jpg?v=1641486885"},{"product_id":"first-super-computer","title":"First Supercomputer Cray-1","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/board-supercomputer-front_600x600.jpg?v=1579802749\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"There's something about the speed of light; It's just hard to get around.\" ~ Seymour Cray\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis item includes a small section of an original Cray-1 Module Board. We also have an alternate version that includes an IC Chip (see details below).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLEAD WARNING\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ePCB Module board sections do contain lead as part of their manufacturing process. \u003cstrong\u003eModule board sections should be handled with care and only while wearing gloves.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLead is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.p65warnings.ca.gov\/\"\u003ewww.P65Warnings.ca.gov\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Module Board Only","offer_id":32325460394067,"sku":"80-112-4005-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"IC Chip and Module Board","offer_id":32325460426835,"sku":"80-112-0104-201-36","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-supercomputer-board-01.jpg?v=1579804573"},{"product_id":"dendraster-gibbsii","title":"Dendraster Gibbsii - Fossilized Sand Dollar","description":"Fossilized at the bottom of the sea floor over 5,000,000 years ago, this Dendraster is a window into the ocean's past. The body plan of the animal has been preserved in beautiful detail, with their intricate skeletons still clearly visible.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis particular fossil is a \u003cem\u003eDendraster Gibbsii \u003c\/em\u003efrom the San Joaquin Valley deposit. The petroleum in this region can also provide a slight natural stain to the item. Each fossil is a unique item, so shape, size, and patterns will vary.","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13903896936483,"sku":"80-102-7005-201-36","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/add-on-dendraster-2023-02.jpg?v=1688049347"},{"product_id":"japanese-star-sand","title":"Japanese Star Sand","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"The tiniest of stars beneath our feet can reveal the greatest mysteries of deep time.\" ~ from the Second Edition of the Mini Museum\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/star-sand-front_grande.png?v=1556111673\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eForaminifera are single-celled creatures which produce a diverse range of beautiful and tiny protective shells. These shells appear in the fossil record as far back as 550 million-years, and in some locations, entire beaches are made up of these so-called \"foram sands.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/2085f_Japon_Hatoma_grande.jpg?v=1556113328\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Macro image of Foraminifera \"Star sand\" Hatoma Island - Japan (Source:  psammophile \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.arenophile.fr\/Pages_IMG\/P2085f.html\"\u003eMicrophotographie personnelle\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe islands of Okinawa, Japan are home to several foram sand beaches. A folktale from Taketomi-Jima describes the star-shaped shells as the children of the Polar Star and the Southern Cross, devoured and spat out again by a giant serpent which served the Seven Dragon God of the Sea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Japanese Star Sand specimen comes from a private collection obtained many years ago from Hoshizuna-no-Hama (\"Star Sand Beach\") on the island of Iriomote in Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. This specimen was featured in the Second Edition of the Mini Museum and we are happy to offer it once again as a single specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/bbfa1e8b2971cd3b55ffec38a17a5fcb_original_grande.jpg?v=1556112513\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Hoshizuna-no-hama ( Star Sand Beach ) in Iriomote Island, Taketomi Town, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan. 日本語: 星砂の浜。所在地は沖縄県竹富町の西表島。(Source: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/bit.ly\/1opq5ZN\"\u003ehttp:\/\/bit.ly\/1opq5ZN\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Foram sand beaches contain many billions of foraminifera remains along with other debris one is likely to find on many beaches. To prepare this specimen, we had to begin by separating forams from actual sand and tiny bits of debris, and because the sand and the shells are essentially the same size, this had to be done by hand with tweezers. It is possible that some common beach debris may be included in this specimen but we've done our best separate the forams from the sand and other bits one is likely to find on a beach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo make it easy for you to handle the specimen (and to include more forams), we've opted to showcase this carefully prepared specimen in a small glass vial complete with a cork stopper. The vial is enclosed in an acrylic specimen jar and displayed in a classic, glass-topped riker display box measuring 4x3x1 inches. A small information card is also included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/e3d6b568bf6ef3d9c54f3d864a307060_original_grande.jpg?v=1556112684\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14554174292003,"sku":"80-112-0002-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-star-sand-1000.jpg?v=1556121326"},{"product_id":"petrified-lightning-saharan-fulgurite","title":"Petrified Lightning - Saharan Fulgurite Riker Box Specimen","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/petrified-lightning-front_75f40f1c-9f19-4c11-a394-b5060ac49426_1024x1024.png?v=1638478350\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of the Specimen Card.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen lightning strikes dry sand, the intense heat melts and fuses the silica creating tubes of rough glass called fulgurites. The process happens quickly, often trapping molecules from the surrounding atmosphere inside the walls of the impact tube. These natural time capsules allow scientists to study the composition of ancient climates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a fulgurite collected in the Sahara Desert. Originally featured in the Second Edition of the Mini Museum, we're happy to offer it as a stand-alone specimen for your collection.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small Riker Box Specimen","offer_id":39552016744531,"sku":"80-112-0001-201-36","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/petrified-lightning-MAIN-004.jpg?v=1768321795"},{"product_id":"mount-fuji-lava","title":"Mount Fuji Lava","description":"\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003emisty rain\u003cbr\u003e a day with Mount Fuji unseen:\u003cbr\u003e so enchanting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMatsuo Bashō (1644–1694)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mount-fuji-hokusai-front_large.png?v=1556729567\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: The card included with this specimen features \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003eKatsushika Hokusai's \"Storm below Mount Fuji\" (Sanka no haku u, 冨嶽三十六景　山下白雨), from the series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji (Fugaku sanjūrokkei) c. 1830\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt 3,776 meters, Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan. Yet, the modern Mount Fuji is actually three volcanoes in one: Komitake, Ko-Fuji, and Shin-Fuji. Over the course of the last several hundred thousand years, each volcano formed out of the remains of the last with Shin-Fuji becoming active roughly 10,000 years ago.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/04-MOUNT-FUJI_v3_grande.jpg?v=1556731242\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is part of a massive eruption which occurred in 864 AD. Lava poured from Mount Fuji and filled part of ancient Lake Senoumi, creating Lake Sai, Lake Shōji, and Lake Motosu. Pictured above, the fertile land left behind became the Aokigahara Jukai or “Sea of Trees”. This tranquil region also has the unfortunate distinction of being known as the Suicide Forest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/Aokigahara_grande.jpg?v=1556731185\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: 日本語: 天子山地の竜ヶ岳から望む御坂山地と青木ヶ原、右中央に西湖 English: Aokigahara, Misaka Mountains and Lake Sai seen from Mount Ryu of Tenshi Mountains, Japan. (Source: \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/bit.ly\/1P7yXJk\"\u003ehttp:\/\/bit.ly\/1P7yXJk\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen was acquired from a local, family-owned stone quarry by a friend of Hans' \u003cspan\u003ewho owns a cafe and bed and breakfast just outside the Aokigahara with spectacular views of the mountain\u003c\/span\u003e. For five generations, this family has produced sculptures for Buddhist and Shinto Shrines around Mount Fuji. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/cafe_grande.jpg?v=1556730529\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: The view from Earth Embassy Solar Cafe and Organic Farm\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs pictured, the specimen is housed in a glass-topped riker display box measuring 4x3x1 (inches). A small information card is included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: Each specimen is unique, so size and shape will vary.\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mount-fuji-lava-macro-1-2_grande.jpg?v=1556922420\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Macro Image - Samples of Mount Fuji Lava, representative of the size and shape. These two fragments are roughly 19mm long (0.75\")\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14630850232355,"sku":"80-112-0005-201-36","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mount-fuji-in-hand-MAIN-003.jpg?v=1763047744"},{"product_id":"elephant-bird-eggshell-fragment","title":"Elephant Bird Eggshell Fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe island of Madagascar was the home of the now extinct Aepyornis, better known as the Elephant Bird. While these creatures themselves were massive, with some growing to 10 feet tall, their eggs were a spectacle to scientists. The largest known egg of any vertebrae, including dinosaurs, an Elephant Bird egg could have a volume as large as 1.9 gallons.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginally featured in the Fourth Edition of the Mini Museum, we are proud to present it in add-on form!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: This item is in very short supply and it is uncertain whether we shall have it again once it is sold out. Please limit your purchase to one (1) specimen per household in order to share with others. Thank you!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\u003c\/blockquote\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":39311647506515,"sku":"80-112-0004-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":39311647539283,"sku":"80-112-0127-201-36","price":69.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-elephant-bird-egg-1000.jpg?v=1556917188"},{"product_id":"steve-jobs-turtleneck","title":"Steve Jobs Turtleneck","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\"I want to put a ding in the universe.\" ~ Steve Jobs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/steve-jobs-front-no-logo_grande.png?v=1559677494\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of the Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis specimen is a swatch of fabric from a black turtleneck owned by Steve Jobs. One of the earliest examples of what would eventually become Steve's trademark style, this turtleneck was worn by Steve at the 1991 PC Forum gathering.  The turtleneck was sold by his personal assistant and purchased at a public auction.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe specimen first appeared in the \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/minimuseum.com\/third-edition.html\"\u003eThird Edition of the Mini Museum\u003c\/a\u003e. Now that specimen production for the Third Edition is complete, we are happy to offer the remaining material as a stand-alone item.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe specimen measures 1x1 cm and is enclosed inside an acrylic specimen jar. The jar is enclosed inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case. A small information card is also enclosed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e The back of the fabric has been treated to help prevent fraying over time while the front is soft. It is 100% cotton, at least according to the label.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14882099626019,"sku":"80-112-0007-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-steve-jobs-1000.jpg?v=1559679355"},{"product_id":"oldest-earth-jack-hills-zircon","title":"Oldest Earth - Jack Hills Zircon - Classic Riker Box Specimen","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\" mce-data-marked=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis specimen is a small piece of the Jack Hills formation north of Perth in Western Australia (\u003cem\u003epictured above\u003c\/em\u003e).  The rough, sedimentary layers of the Jack Hills formation are 3.3 billion years old, but they also contain much older zircon crystals across a range of time from 3.6 to nearly 4.4 billion years old.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe specimen measures 1x1 cm and is enclosed inside an acrylic specimen jar. The jar is enclosed inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case. A small information card is also enclosed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: \u003c\/strong\u003eThese specimens were collected in accordance with Australia's cultural heritage and mining laws. That said, this site is now \u003cstrong\u003epermanently closed \u003c\/strong\u003eto new mining and no further exports are expected. As such, it is likely these specimens are the \u003cem\u003eonly\u003c\/em\u003e pieces we will \u003cem\u003eever\u003c\/em\u003e see outside of Australia or available to the general public.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39757413548115,"sku":"80-112-0008-201-36","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/jack-hills-hero.jpg?v=1645812083"},{"product_id":"beatles-brick-the-cavern-club","title":"Beatles Brick Fragment - The Cavern Club","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is an authentic brick fragment salvaged from the original Cavern Club in Liverpool, England. From 1961 to 1963, the Fab Four played 292 shows in the Cavern Club. This is a great collectible piece for any Beatles fan!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\"The Cavern... Do I have memories of the Cavern?  Do I? Oh yeah.\" ~ Paul McCartney\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eBefore The Beatles played for millions of viewers on The Ed Sullivan Show, the Lads from Liverpool put in thousands of hours in clubs and lounges across the UK, Germany, Sweden, and France, yet few venues can be so closely associated with the earliest days of the Beatles as the original Cavern Club in Liverpool, England.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Beatles first played the Cavern Club in 1961, where they were soon noticed by talent spotter and future manager Brian Epstein. The venue was inspired by Parisian jazz clubs and boasted an iconic brick-laden cellar that served as the stage. As noted above, this specimen is a fragment of one of those bricks that first experienced the sound of the Beatles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen the original club was demolished in 1973, a selection of bricks was taken and placed at auction. Mini Museum's material comes from one of these 1973 bricks, meaning the sound of the first 1961 Beatles performance passed through these specimens.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach specimen is hand-cut by our technicians and is displayed in a cushioned acrylic jar. The jar is enclosed inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case that measures 4\"x3\"x1\". A small information card is also enclosed, which also serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: Color will vary widely on this specimen between red, gray, and swirls of both colors\u003c\/strong\u003e. The unique texture and coloring are the result of uneven firing and rough materials used at the time. This makes each specimen completely unique.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14883696869411,"sku":"80-112-0009-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/brickhand.png?v=1763911344"},{"product_id":"apollo-13-command-module-foil","title":"Apollo 13 Command Module Foil","description":"\u003ch2\u003eAbout the Apollo 13 Command Module Foil Specimen\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of mission-flown kapton foil which provided thermal protection for the astronauts aboard the Apollo 13 Command Module.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/apollo-13-cube-in-hand-01_grande.jpg?v=1566566484\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen \u003cstrong\u003emeasures approximately 1mm x 1mm\u003c\/strong\u003e and is enclosed in an acrylic cube with a magnified lid for easy viewing. The acrylic cube is housed inside a padded, glass-topped riker box display case measuring 5 1\/2\" x 6 1\/2\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/apollo-13-hero-1000-01_grande.jpg?v=1566568707\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAn \u003cstrong\u003einformation card\u003c\/strong\u003e is included with \u003cstrong\u003eimages from Apollo 13\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cstrong\u003edetails about the mission\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003cstrong\u003ea certificate of authenticity\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/apollo-13-product-images-13_grande.jpg?v=1566493602\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe card also features a centerline die-cut square matching the dimensions of the acrylic cube.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/apollo-13-product-images-14_grande.jpg?v=1566493575\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis allows you to showcase the specimen inside the display case with any one of four different designs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/front-coa-1x2_1024x1024.jpg?v=1566566639\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: The magnified lid is secured to the acrylic cube with special tape, but the specimen inside is directly accessible.\u003c\/strong\u003e If you choose to remove the lid to examine the specimen, please use extreme caution. \u003cem\u003eThis cannot be stressed enough. \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eKapton foil is very light and can easily escape.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e In addition, due to the delicate nature of the material, fragments can vary in shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSource:\u003c\/strong\u003e Acquired at auction, this material comes from the personal collection of retired NASA Production Control Engineer William R. Whipkey. Among space collectors, Whipkey is considered the most reliable source for kapton foil because he oversaw the decommissioning of the Command Modules from multiple missions. He was also responsible for making most of the commemorative displays for astronauts, VIPs, and others who worked on the Apollo Program.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small (1mm x 1mm)","offer_id":51782432424308,"sku":"80-112-0011-201-36","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium (2mm x 2mm)","offer_id":51782432457076,"sku":"80-112-0406-201-40","price":276.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/2mm-apollo-13-whipkey-01-front.jpg?v=1738878588"},{"product_id":"manhattan-project-shield-window-fragment","title":"Manhattan Project Shield Window Fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThe Manhattan Project was the codename for the research and development effort which allowed the United States to rapidly develop a series of atomic breakthroughs during World War II, including the first industrial-scale plutonium production reactor and the first atomic bombs. This enormous project involved over one hundred thousand scientists, engineers, technicians, and construction workers at more than 30 sites across the United States, including well-known locations such as Oak Ridge, Los Alamos, Trinity, and Hanford.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of a leaded glass shield window installed in the T Plant (221-T) Plutonium Recovery Building, the first and largest of two production bismuth-phosphate chemical separations plants used to extract plutonium from fuel rods irradiated in the Hanford Site’s reactors. The Plutonium produced here was used \u003c\/span\u003ein both the Trinity test on July 16, 1945 and in the \"Fat Man\" atomic bomb used over Nagasaki, Japan on August 9, 1945.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe glass was sold during a government surplus auction in the late 1980s as part of the long (and continuing) decommissioning process. The yellow color of the glass is due to a high concentration of lead-oxide (up to 70%), which blocks blue and near-UV spectral frequencies, and also gives the glass its protective qualities.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Size \"A\" (\u003c 3 grams)","offer_id":31998786404435,"sku":"80-112-0059-201-36","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Size \"B\" (~3-8 grams)","offer_id":31998787813459,"sku":"80-112-0060-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"10-19 grams","offer_id":31221378252883,"sku":"80-112-0024-201-36","price":89.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"20-29 grams","offer_id":31221378646099,"sku":"80-112-0025-201-36","price":139.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"30-39 grams","offer_id":31221378941011,"sku":"80-112-0026-201-36","price":179.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"40-49 grams","offer_id":31221380317267,"sku":"80-112-0027-201-36","price":229.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"50-59 grams","offer_id":31221380710483,"sku":"80-112-0028-201-36","price":269.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mpsdesk-MAIN-005_74bf9678-1829-4c9d-a75d-4b31982927af.jpg?v=1686166376"},{"product_id":"mount-everest-ladder-rung","title":"Mount Everest Ladder Rung","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a precision-cut segment of ladder rung from the Khumbu Glacier on Mount Everest, roughly 2mm thick.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDiameter, shape, and condition vary widely. Diameters range from just under 1\" (2.5cm) to 1.5\" (3.8cm). Some segments have significant crampon marks along the edges, while others are relatively clean. As shown, some segments have undergone tremendous stress.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe specimen comes in a classic, glass-topped riker display box measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also included, which also serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePlease Note: You should not expect to receive a perfectly round specimen. The ladder rung segments are all 2mm thick, but the diameter, shape, and condition vary widely. Diameters range from just under 1\" (2.5cm) to 1.5\" (3.8cm). Some segments have significant crampon marks along the edges, while others are relatively clean. As shown, some segments have undergone tremendous stress.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39551963856979,"sku":"80-112-0013-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-everest-ladder-rung-small-01.jpg?v=1702309018"},{"product_id":"libyan-desert-glass","title":"Libyan Desert Glass","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComet impact glass! 28,500,000 years old!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/libyan-desert-glass-front_1024x1024.png?v=1574367800\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of the Specimen Card.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn the southeastern spur of North Africa’s Great Sand Sea, there are several fields of luminous, yellow-green glass known as Libyan Desert Glass (LDG). Due to the lack of any visible impact crater, the most likely source is a low-density asteroid or comet airburst explosion leading to the fusion of silica-rich sands roughly 28,500,000 years ago.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31207188562003,"sku":"80-112-0023-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-ldg-05-1000.jpg?v=1574367775"},{"product_id":"tyrannosaurus-rex-bone","title":"Tyrannosaurus Rex Bone","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBones of a King!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/trex-bone-front_600x600.png?v=1575921219\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMeasuring 40ft (12m) in length and weighing upwards of 14 tons, Tyrannosaurus rex was one of the largest and most powerful terrestrial predators in history. The most advanced in an 80 million year chain of tyrannosaurid evolution, T. rex had heavy, deep skulls reinforced with sutures, lightened by hollow chambers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of Tyrannosaurus rex bone, recovered on private land in South Dakota from the Hell Creek Formation. Sizes and shapes vary widely on this specimen but they are all about 0.50\" to 0.75\" (1.25cm-2cm) in length. The specimen is housed within a glass-topped riker display case. The case measures 4\"x3\"x1\". A small information card is also included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore About Tyrannosaurus rex\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/30-TYRANNOSAURUS-REX_1024x1024.jpg?v=1575921656\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: How do you like your T. rex? With scales or fluffy like a baby chick? The science is still unsettled about adults as depicted here but juveniles definitely had feathers.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"We need to start thinking of dinosaurs as not just brutes and not just monsters, and not just things with sharp teeth and sharp claws, but as really active, intelligent, energetic animals that oftentimes had keen senses. An animal like T. rex was a predator that used brain and brawn: its big brain, its great sense of smell and its really keen sense of hearing were probably as important to it, if not more so, than its sharp claws and its sharp teeth and its big jaw muscles.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e~ Steve Brusatte, Paleontologist, University of Edinburgh, author of \"The Rise and Fall of the Dinosaurs: A New History of a Lost World\" (2018)\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVarious mechanical studies of T. rex power place the \"Tyrant Lizard King\" firmly at the top of the charts. Paired with this incredible power, T. rex also had some of the largest teeth of any carnivorous dinosaur, with the largest measuring 1ft (30 cm).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDespite popular depictions of poor depth perception, studies show that when compared to other giant theropods, tyrannosaurids had a wide postorbital skull which resulted in forward-facing eyes and acute binocular vision. The spine of a Tyrannosaurus Rex was subject to tremendous force. The size and strength of the vertebrae were essential to providing support for this enormous predator, but the entire apparatus also had to allow for rapid changes in movement and critical striking speed.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31268782637139,"sku":"80-112-0015-201-36","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/t-rex-bone-in-hand-MAIN-004.jpg?v=1762978604"},{"product_id":"triceratops-bone","title":"Triceratops Bone","description":"\u003cp\u003eTriceratops belongs to a large family of dinosaurs known as the Ceratopsids. Ceratopsids lived during the Late Cretaceous Period. All Ceratopsids are quadrupeds with bony frills, horns, and beak-like mouths.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of Triceratops bone, recovered on private land in South Dakota from the Hell Creek Formation. Sizes and shapes vary widely on this specimen but they are all about 0.75\" to 1.5\" (2cm-3cm) in length. The specimen is housed within a glass-topped riker display case. The case measures 4\"x3\"x1\". A small information card is also included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore About Triceratops\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"The observed instances of periosteal reactive bone and healing fractures are consistent with such non-random trauma, and the elevated rates of abnormal bone morphology within the frill bones are consistent with predictions from modeling of horn-to-horn combat. This suggests that the cranial ornamentation of ceratopsids, particularly Triceratops, was not only for visual display but that the horns also had a real role in physical combat.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e~ Andrew A. Farke, Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology \"Evidence of Combat in Triceratops\" (2009)\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn adulthood, Triceratops measured 29ft (9m) long and 10ft (3m) tall, with the head comprising nearly one-third the overall length. Studies of the incidence of lesions in the cranium and frill suggest that the Triceratops used its horns in combat and the frill was an adaptation for protection. In other studies, it was found that about one-third of the adult horn was hollow at its base, thus making it unlikely that the horns would be used for combat when they could be easily damaged.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/09-DINO-FOOD_1024x1024.jpg?v=1576007201\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAssessments of progressive changes in horn orientation and shape during adolescence indicate the possible visual identification of juveniles, and eventually the onset of sexual maturity. Furthermore, the horns may have been important for sexual displays (sexual dimorphism) or even species recognition amid large herds.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31270378930259,"sku":"80-112-0014-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-dino-triceratops-02-1000.jpg?v=1748460743"},{"product_id":"dinosaur-eggshell","title":"Dinosaur Eggshell","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/dino-eggshell-front_4664cfee-6657-4c78-88f4-b2e2cf7d63d9_1024x1024.png?v=1649773181\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of Hypselosaurus eggshell from the Provence region of southern France. Recent studies suggest that the sauropod may have been a \"small\" titanosaur, measuring perhaps 12m (40ft) in length in adulthood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen comes inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also enclosed. As pictured, the eggshell is also enclosed in a small acrylic specimen jar.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31270387449939,"sku":"80-112-0020-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-dino-eggshell-01-1000.jpg?v=1576007637"},{"product_id":"hadrosaur-bone","title":"Hadrosaur Bone","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/hadrosaur-bone-front_600x600.png?v=1576008267\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHadrosaurs were a large family of ornithischian dinosaurs from the Cretaceous Period. Related to Iguanodons, they are known primarily for their \"duck-bills\" which are in fact elongated rostral bone structures that give the appearance of a beak, but actually housed hundreds of small teeth that allowed these giant herbivores to grind through all manner of plant material, including rotten wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a slice of Hadrosaur bone from an Edmontosaurus, recovered on private land in South Dakota from the Lance Formation. The specimen comes inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also enclosed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore About Hadrosaurs\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"Hadrosaurs grew rapidly, and quantifying their growth is key to understanding life-history interactions between predators and prey during the Late Cretaceous.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e~ Lisa Noelle Cooper, \"Relative growth rates of predator and prey dinosaurs reflect effects of predation.\" Proceedings of the Royal Society B: Biological Sciences 275.1651 (2008)\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHadrosaur fossils have been found on all continents. Evidence of their migratory nature has been recovered, but recent studies suggest that some species, those in polar regions, may have settled in place year-round.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese large herbivores ate twigs, berries and coarse plant matter. Much is known about their diet as fossilized stomach contents have been identified. They foraged on low-level foliage from conifers and deciduous shrubs and trees.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRecent studies suggest that Hadrosaurs, which could reach the size of a Tyrannosaurus rex, grew at phenomenal speeds, in part to avoid predation by therapods. Compare this with T. rex, which took three times that long to grow to full size.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs noted above, this specimen is a fragment of Hadrosaur bone recovered on private land in South Dakota from the Lance Formation. Once a coastal plain threaded with streams along the Western Interior Seaway, the Lance Formation is one of the most productive locations for Late Cretaceous Period fossils all the way up to the end of the Cretaceous. Studies indicate rainfall amounts increased dramatically after the K-Pg boundary event, with an influx of sediments and widespread swamps.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31270404882515,"sku":"80-112-0017-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-dino-hadrosaur-01-1000.jpg?v=1576008404"},{"product_id":"great-dying-extinction-event-siberian-traps-slab","title":"The Great Dying Extinction Event - Siberian Traps Slab","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/great-dying-front_600x600.png?v=1576008552\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eOur planet has gone through many different cycles of life and death over the last 4.5 billion years, from the rise and long-lasting reign of the dinosaurs to the endless variations of tiny cyanobacteria stretching back billions of years. While the fossil record holds a picture of many dramatic events, nothing quite compares to the Permian-Triassic Extinction Event, known as \"The Great Dying.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/species-extinction-rate-chart-smooth-line-smaller_1024x1024.jpg?v=1610986076\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: While there have been numerous extinction events scattered across time, the chart to the left highlights the \"Big Five\" events as well as a number of smaller events that have occurred in between: Ordovician–Silurian(441,000,000), Late Devonian (359,000,000), Permian–Triassic (252,000,000), Triassic–Jurassic (201,000,000), Cretaceous–Paleogene (66,000,000).\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a basalt slab from the Kuznetsk Basin in southwestern Siberia. The Kuznetsk Basin is also home to one of the largest coal deposits on earth, a remnant of the global destruction caused by the Siberian Traps during the greatest extinction event in the history of the planet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen comes inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also enclosed.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Specimens vary in shape and thickness. This material is very dense and difficult to cut, but we generally aim for a 1 x 1\" (2.5 x 2.5 cm) mini-slab. Some edges will be smooth and others will be sharp so do take care when handling this specimen. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore About The Great Dying\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"\"La vie a souvent été troublée sur cette terre par des événemens effroyables.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"Life has often been disturbed on this earth by frightful events.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e~ Georges Cuvier, Discours sur les révolutions de la surface du globe (1822)\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKnown as \"The Great Dying,\" the Permian-Triassic Extinction Event is the largest extinction event in the history of the planet. While studies point to several factors, the chief catalyst of this extinction event is a series of massive volcanic eruptions known as the Siberian Traps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/04-GREAT-DYING_1024x1024.jpg?v=1576008736\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOver the course of 1,000,000 years, these flood basalt eruptions covered over 7 million square kilometers (2,700,000 square miles) with as much as 4 million cubic kilometers of lava (~1,000,000 cubic miles). Carbon dioxide and methane releases triggered by the Siberian Traps caused runaway global warming, driving ocean temperatures to exceed 40C (104F) and killing nearly 95% of life on Earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eNickel released by the Siberian Traps triggered marine bacteria to produce massive amounts of methane. Combined with an injection of carbon dioxide and sulfate aerosols, runaway global warming pushed ocean temperatures over 40C (104F).\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSuch devastation on land and sea is unequaled in the fossil record. Nearly 95% of all life perished, and most studies indicate life took millions of years to rebound. As life returned, new species rose to the top. The Synapsids (mammal-like reptiles such as Dimetrodon) were replaced by Archosaurs. The Archosaurs descendants included birds, crocodilians, pterosaurs, and of course dinosaurs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/AdobeStock_169703303_1024x1024.jpg?v=1610985892\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: The rugged terrain of Putorana Plateau on the Taymyr Peninsula in Siberia, Russia is completely formed from the remains of the Siberian Traps. It lies more than 1,000 miles (1,600 km) away from the Kuznetsk Basin giving some sense to the massive scale of this formation.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFurther Reading\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eDavies, Clare, Mark B. Allen, Misha M. Buslov and Inna Safonova. \"Deposition in the Kuznetsk Basin, Siberia : insights into the Permian-Triassic transition and the Mesozoic evolution of Central Asia.\" Palaeogeography, palaeoclimatology, palaeoecology 295.1 (2010): 307-322. dro.dur.ac.uk. Web. 13 March 2018.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eKolbert, Elizabeth. The sixth extinction: An unnatural history. A\u0026amp;C Black, 2014.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eHallam, Tony. Catastrophes and Lesser Calamities : The Causes of Mass Extinctions. Oxford University Press, 2005. EBSCOhost.com. Web. 13 March 2018.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eSaunders, Andy and Marc Reichow. \"The Siberian Traps and the End-Permian mass extinction: a critical review.\" Chinese Science Bulletin 54.1 (2009): 20-37. Ira.le.ac.uk. Web. 13 March 2018.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31270408355923,"sku":"80-112-0018-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/great-dying-in-hand-MAIN-004.jpg?v=1768321656"},{"product_id":"pterosaur-tooth","title":"Pterosaur Tooth - Classic Riker Box Specimens","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is an individual Pterosaur tooth. It comes from the Kem Kem beds of Morocco and is associated with\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003eColoborhynchus\u003c\/em\u003e, a Pterosaur from the Early Cretaceous with an estimated wingspan of 5m (15ft).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePterosaur Tooth Sizing:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSmall\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 1.5 cm and smaller\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMedium\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 1.5cm to 2.5cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e- 2.5cm to 3.5cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":39485969498195,"sku":"80-112-0187-201-40","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":39485961994323,"sku":"80-112-0016-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large","offer_id":39485969727571,"sku":"80-112-0188-201-40","price":79.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-pterosaur-01-1000.jpg?v=1649158418"},{"product_id":"dinosaur-gastrolith-gut-stone","title":"Dinosaur Gastrolith - Gut Stone","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/gastrolith-front_600x600.png?v=1576009264\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlso known as gut or gizzard stones, gastroliths are common digestive aids among amphibians, reptiles, birds, and dinosaurs. their primary function is to help grind food matter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn dinosaurs, gastroliths are usually associated with sauropods, though they have also been discovered in ornithomimids, oviraptors, and some ornithischians. This Jurassic period gastrolith comes from the Morrison Formation in Colorado.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThere are two different sizes of gastrolith:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmall: 1-2\" (2.5-5cm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge: 2\" to 4\" (5-10cm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/gastrolith-large-small-01_480x480.jpg?v=1576009546\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Large (left) and Small (right) Gastroliths\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth sizes ship in a sturdy carton and include a small information card about the specimen.\u003cimg\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/dinosaur-gastrolith-small-2026-MAIN-009.jpg?v=1778594647\" alt=\"\" width=\"435\" height=\"435\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":31270443778131,"sku":"80-112-0019-201-36","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large","offer_id":31270443810899,"sku":"80-112-0022-201-36","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/dino-gastrolith-desk-MAIN-039_548aeca7-d0b3-40f6-b79d-719974b1f919.jpg?v=1778594620"},{"product_id":"mammoth-meat","title":"Mammoth Meat","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRadiocarbon-dated to 19,551 years old!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mammoth-meat-front_1024x1024.png?v=1591199850\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003csmall\u003eAbove: Front of Specimen Card\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"Various legends exist about frozen mammoths. It has been said that the scientists who excavated the Beresovka mammoth, discovered in the year 1900, enjoyed a banquet on mammoth steak. What really appears to have happened is that one of them made a heroic attempt to take a bite out of this meat but was unable to keep it down, in spite of a generous use of spices.\" ~ Björn Kurtén in \"How to Deep Freeze a Mammoth\"\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of a woolly mammoth muscle tissue, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eradiocarbon dated to 19,551 years old. \u003c\/span\u003eThe specimen comes from a well-preserved wooly mammoth leg discovered near the Indigkra River in Siberia, Russia. It first appeared in the Second Edition of the Mini Museum. We're pleased to offer it once again as a single specimen.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mammoth-leg-with-marker_1024x1024.png?v=1591203722\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: The original leg as discovered in Siberia. This piece is now displayed in a museum in Japan.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs you might expect, each tissue fragment is unique. The pieces vary widely in size, shape, color, and texture. We do not recommend or endorse the consumption of this item. It is not food. It is a display piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/meat-01_1024x1024.jpg?v=1591204786\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A close-up of a large section of mammoth muscle tissue.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen comes in an acrylic jar, which housed inside a glass-topped Riker display box measuring 4x3x1 (inches). A small information card accompanies the specimen and serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: We have not stabilized this material with resin.\u003c\/strong\u003e It is very firm, like leather, but we recommend treating it as fragile as it can shed dusty bits. For this reason, we've placed each specimen in an acrylic specimen jar. We recommend keeping it in the jar at all times as it can be fragrant when exposed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Woolly Mammoth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRoughly the mass of a modern African elephant, the woolly mammoth evolved some 400,000 years ago in Siberia from the steppe mammoth widespread on that continent, and ultimately spread westward into Europe and eastward into North America via the Beringian land bridge that once connected modern-day Russia and Alaska. This event may have been the second mammoth invasion of the New World, as the steppe mammoth forayed to North America about 1.5 million years ago and evolved there into the endemic (and enormous) Columbian mammoth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn Pleistocene North America, woolly mammoths primarily roamed the cold, treeless tundra-grasslands immediately below the continental ice sheets—the American reach of the mammoth steppe—while Columbian mammoths occupied a more southerly, temperate range encompassing most of today's Lower 48 States and which extended deep into Mexico.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThey shared this territory with fellow Pleistocene grazers, subsisting mainly on grasses and sedges along with willows, alders, and other stunted trees that grew sparsely in the high-latitude steppe lands, far more diverse biomass than the modern Arctic tundra.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter disappearing from continental ranges roughly 10,000 years ago, small, isolated populations of woolly mammoth survived on Alaska's St. Paul Island until about 5,600 years ago and on Russia's Wrangel Island until perhaps 4,000 years ago. All of these pockets eventually died out due to the lack of genetic diversity that comes from metropolitan interactions with larger populations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mammoth-meat-back_1024x1024.png?v=1591206256\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003csmall\u003eAbove: Back of Specimen Card\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31880989147219,"sku":"80-112-0038-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/mammoth-meat-MAIN-001.jpg?v=1760037381"},{"product_id":"first-transatlantic-cable","title":"First Transatlantic Cable","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/transatlantic-cable-front_1024x1024.png?v=1591213472\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003csmall\u003eAbove: Front of Specimen Card\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"What hath God wrought?\" ~ Samuel F.B. Morse, 1844\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of the First Transatlantic Cable carried aboard the U.S.S. Niagara. Originally part of the Third Edition of the Mini Museum, we're excited to offer the remaining fragments as stand-alone items.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: Due to the fragile nature of the material the size will vary widely. Single wires are the most common, but there are also bound pairs from our original prototype work and selections of smaller pieces.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen is enclosed in an acrylic specimen jar with a removable top which arrives in a handsome, glass-topped riker box case measuring 4x3x1.  A small information card is included, which also serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the First Transatlantic Cable\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/20-TRANSATLANTIC-CABLE-CONTEXT-NEWSPAPER_1024x1024.jpg?v=1591216944\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eTen years after Samuel F.B. Morse sent the first telegraph message in 1844, the world was hooked on the new form of rapid communication.  Transmission lines crossed mountains, rivers, and national boundaries.  Even 20 miles of the English Channel could not hold back the constant flow of messages.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eYet even with this breathtaking progress, overcoming the Atlantic Ocean seemed an impossible task.  Nearly two thousand miles of open ocean separated the closest two points between Europe and North America, and the depth along the route often exceeded two miles.  Spanning this enormous gap would require the will of a person of immense vision and grit, and perhaps even a touch of madness.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eBorn in 1819, Cyrus West Field was one of eight children.  He began an early career in business as a dry goods merchant in New York, leaving to become a paper salesman.  Still young, he joined a paper manufacturing partnership, then nearly fell into financial ruin when the business collapsed and he somehow came out personally responsible for the debts of his partners.  Not to be held down, Field went out and started a new paper manufacturing business, becoming a primary supplier to the burgeoning penny presses of the day.  Field sold his business and found himself incredibly wealthy.  He and his brother purchased matching mansions in New York's hottest new private development: Gramercy Square.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eBut Field was still a young man and he hungered for adventure.  Along with a friend, painter Frederic Edwin Church, he traveled to South America following in the footsteps of 18th-century scientist Alexander von Humboldt.  Field had Church paint sweeping landscapes and volcanoes to capture the incredible vision left behind by von Humboldt in his book \u003cem\u003eCosmos\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eReturning home to New York, Field became very excited by a new technology: the telegraph.  Lines for the telegraph were appearing everywhere, but Field had the idea that a line stretching from Europe to America might change the world.  Without hesitation, he set out to make it happen.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eIn 1854, Field raised a fund among his wealthy New York friends equivalent to $40M in today's currency to develop the technology needed to draw the cable across over 2,000 miles of ocean.  Three years later, the US Government also authorized annual payments of nearly $2M per year to help fund the development.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThen in August 4th, 1858, after already suffering one failed attempt to connect the line, Cyrus Field and the USS Niagara reached Trinity Bay, Newfoundland, connecting the First Transatlantic Telegraph Cable.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\"I have no words to express the feelings which fill my heart tonight -- it beats with love and affection for every man, woman, and child who hears me. What God has joined together, let no man put asunder.\" ~ Cyrus West Field, 1858\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eWithin days, messages began flowing between the two continents at a rate never before imagined.  The world had become smaller in what seemed like an instant.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eCharles Tiffany of Tiffany \u0026amp; Co. purchased the remaining cable from Field with the intent of selling souvenirs.  However, the wonder of this advancement was not to last, as the cable failed within just a few weeks.  Tiffany was unable to sell more than a few of the finished pieces before the world turned against Field with a fury that was just as intense as their initial excitement.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/20-TRANSATLANTIC-CABLE_1024x1024.jpg?v=1591216181\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAbove: Tiffany Cable Segments used in the Third Edition of the Mini Museum\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eField was not to be put off.  He set back to work immediately, creating a new company.  It would be hard work, but ten years later a new, sturdier cable would be set in place.  This cable would not fail, and Field would be treated to awards and accolades from across the world.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/transatlantic-cable-back_1024x1024.png?v=1591217160\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003csmall\u003eAbove: Back of Specimen Card\u003c\/small\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31882315399251,"sku":"80-112-0040-201-36","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-transatlantic-cable-01-1000.jpg?v=1591218915"},{"product_id":"ankylosaurus-dermal-armor","title":"Ankylosaurus Dermal Armor - Scute Fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/ankylosaurus-front_1024x1024.png?v=1591300593\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCovered in rows of bony plates and wielding a powerful clubbed tail, the Ankylosaurs are one of the most distinctive and successful of all dinosaur families. Spread across more than 90 million years of the fossil record, various species of this sturdy dinosaur can be found on every continent on earth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of an Ankylosaurus dermal plate from the Hell Creek formation in South Dakota. It was recovered by paleontologists working on private land. Large and oval in shape, these \"scutes\" are consistent with the armor that protected the neck and shoulders of Ankylosaurus from the sharp teeth of predators. Ankylosaurus first appeared in the Third Edition of the Mini Museum. It is also featured in Age of Dinosaurs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen comes inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also enclosed that also serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e The fragments vary widely by size and shape. They are roughly 1\/2\" (2cm) in size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore about Ankylosaurus\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"The armor are bones that form within the skin, just like crocodiles.\"\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e~ Ken Carpenter, Director USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe plates of an Ankylosaurus were not part of the skeleton, but rather formed within the skin. This type of growth is called an osteoderm. Osteoderms usually begin with small nodules of cartilage around which more dense material forms.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/23-ANKYLOSAURUS-08_1024x1024.jpg?v=1591300886\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOsteoderms are found in many different and unrelated species from reptiles and amphibians to mammals, fish, and of course dinosaurs. They sometimes form fantastic structures such as the shells of the armadillo and glyptodon, or the tall, dorsal plates and tail spikes of Stegosaurus. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnother interesting aspect of Ankylosaurus's evolution is a progressive widening of the \"hindgut\" over time. The hindgut is broadly referred to as the lower part of the digestive system. In certain animals, this feature is highly developed, allowing for the extraction of nutrients from cellulose via microbial fermentation. An increase in the size of this feature over time might speak specifically to competitive pressure between different herbivorous dinosaur species such as the ceratopsids and hadrosaurids.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/ankylosaurus-back_1024x1024.png?v=1591300610\" alt=\"\"\u003eAbove: Back of Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31886006616147,"sku":"80-112-0042-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-ankylosaurus-01-1000.jpg?v=1591301708"},{"product_id":"venice-brick","title":"Venice Brick","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"I stood in Venice, on the Bridge of Sighs...\"\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e~ Lord Byron, 1812\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe City of Canals, the City of Bridges, the City of Masks... The city of Venice has been known by many names and ruled by many hands. Yet, despite its legendary history at the center of a long-lived republic, the ever-present Adriatic Sea has defined the fortunes of Venice, and it is to those waters that the city may eventually return.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen comes from an early 14th-century paving brick uncovered in the \u003cem\u003eCannaregio sestiere\u003c\/em\u003e during a recent renovation. It first appeared in the Third Edition of the Mini Museum, and we're pleased to offer the remaining material as a single item.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe brick was acquired directly from the architectural firm performing the renovation. We are extremely grateful for Mini Museum Backer N. Lugato's assistance in identifying and securing this specimen so that we can share it with the world.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: Sizes and shapes of this specimen vary widely. Keep in mind it is a 14th-century paving brick so it is a bit fragile. Handle with care.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe specimen is enclosed in an acrylic specimen jar with a removable top, which arrives in a handsome, glass-topped riker box case measuring 4x3x1.  A small information card is included, also serving as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31886177894483,"sku":"80-112-0043-201-36","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-venice-brick-01-1000.jpg?v=1591385982"},{"product_id":"alcatraz-penitentiary","title":"Alcatraz Penitentiary -  Classic Riker Box Specimens","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb data-stringify-type=\"bold\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is an authentic fragment of concrete from Alcatraz Penitentiary. Yes, an actual piece of “The Rock!\"\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff0000;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen, from the famous Alcatraz island, saw some 1,500 prisoners pass by it during the prison's operation. An informational card that serves as certificate of authenticity is included.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31890475450451,"sku":"80-112-0044-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-alcatraz-01-1000.jpg?v=1591389172"},{"product_id":"jurassic-tree-araucaria-fossil","title":"Jurassic Tree - Araucaria Fossil","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/jurassic-tree-front_1024x1024.png?v=1591389740\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDating to the Jurassic Period, the \"primitive\" look of the Araucaria hasn't changed much over the last 200,000,000 years. Averaging 30-60 meters in height, these conifers feature straight, columnar trunks and branches covered in overlapping, scale-like leaves. It should come as no surprise that scientists believe this conifer was a favorite food for long-necked sauropods.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/jurassic-tree-wide_1024x1024.jpg?v=1591391948\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a highly polished, fragment of petrified Araucaria wood recovered in Queensland, Australia. \u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eIt was collected in accordance with Australia's cultural heritage and mining laws. This specimen first appeared in the Third Edition of the Mini Museum. It also featured in Age of Dinosaurs. These particular fragments were too large for inclusion in acrylic but their beauty is undeniable and must be shared!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e The size, color, and patterns of this specimen vary widely. They are all highly polished.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike our polished Pangea fragments, Jurassic Tree is housed inside an acrylic specimen jar and presented in a classic, glass-topped riker display case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also enclosed, which also serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMore about Jurassic Tree\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/modern-tree_1024x1024.jpg?v=1591390432\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Modern Araucaria\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThough well suited to subtropical climates, there are only pockets of Araucaria in the southern hemisphere today, primarily in Chile, Argentina, Australia, and the island of New Caledonia. Yet, during the Jurassic Period, Araucaria could be found in great abundance across the world along with other gymnosperms and ferns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecent digestive studies suggest that Araucaria is capable of yielding a surprising amount of energy when fermented for long periods. Taken together with Araucaria's former range and physical characteristics, it should come as no surprise that scientists believe this conifer was a favorite food for long-necked sauropods.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/jurassic-tree-main_1024x1024.jpg?v=1591390664\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Fossilized Araucaria\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike many modern herbivores, sauropods are thought to have been ruminants. Ruminants acquire nutrients in cooperation with various microbes through a multi-step process of fermentation in a series of stomach-like chambers. This process allows the host animal to consume plants that would otherwise be indigestible to animals with simple stomachs.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGiven their size, we can expect that sauropods would have longer digestive cycles, and a longer fermentation period opens up the range of possible plants, including the tough but surprisingly energy-rich Araucaria.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/jurassic-tree-back_1024x1024.png?v=1591389778\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAbove: Back of Specimen Card\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31890554421331,"sku":"80-112-0045-201-36","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-jurassic-tree-01-1000.jpg?v=1591390715"},{"product_id":"tyrannosaurus-rex-tooth","title":"Tyrannosaurus Rex Tooth Fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003eMeasuring 40ft (12m) in length and weighing upwards of 14 tons, Tyrannosaurus rex was one of the largest and most powerful terrestrial predators in history. The most advanced in an 80 million-year chain of tyrannosaurid evolution, T. rex had heavy, deep skulls reinforced with sutures, lightened by hollow chambers... and of course,\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ebig, sharp teeth!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of a Tyrannosaurus rex tooth, recovered on private land in the Hell Creek Formation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31986293669971,"sku":"80-112-0057-201-36","price":69.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/t-rex-tooth-outside-MAIN-001.jpg?v=1762978815"},{"product_id":"ammolite-gem-quality-ammonite-fossil-fragment","title":"Rainbow Fossil Ammolite - Gem Quality Ammonite Fossil Fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note: ALL ammolite specimens will exhibit multiple colors depending on the angle of the light. The color choices reflect the dominant color of each piece.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/ammolite-front_1024x1024.png?v=1596744671\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAmmonites are an extinct group of cephalopods that entered the fossil record 400 million years ago.  They survived several mass extinction events, including the Permian–Triassic \"Great Dying\" which wiped out 96% of all marine species.  They finally succumbed during the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event 66 million years ago, which also wiped out the dinosaurs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAs with other mollusks, the shells of ammonites had an inner layer known as the nacre or \"mother of pearl\". The nacre is rich in aragonite, a crystal form of calcium carbonate, which produces an iridescent sheen. Over tens of millions of years, aragonite tends to convert to calcite, the most stable form of calcium carbonate. However, in the Bearpaw Formation, the fossils have undergone a unique process of mineralization that both preserved and intensified the natural aragonite resulting in a colorful gemstone we call \u003cstrong\u003eAmmolite\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/ammolite-blue-closeup_1024x1024.jpg?v=1597327384\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a large fragment of ammolite from the Bearpaw Formation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e of southern Alberta, Canada. \u003c\/span\u003eThe specimen comes inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also enclosed that also serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIMPORTANT NOTE ON COLOR:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ammolite comes in a wide variety of colors and the colors shift depending on the angle of the ambient lighting. We have classified these specimens based on their \u003cem\u003edominant\u003c\/em\u003e color, but please know that all specimens will exhibit \u003cem\u003emultiple\u003c\/em\u003e colors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/ammolite-group-colors-with-text_1024x1024.jpg?v=1597327280\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach specimen is unique in size, shape, and thickness. They are also coated in a layer of acrylic enamel. This coating protects the iridescent sheen and enhances the shine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/ammolite-multi-in-hand_1024x1024.jpg?v=1597327303\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e Above: \"Multicolor\" in-hand\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Multicolor","offer_id":32119133372499,"sku":"80-112-0074-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Red","offer_id":32119133175891,"sku":"80-112-0070-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Orange","offer_id":32119133306963,"sku":"80-112-0073-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Green","offer_id":32119133274195,"sku":"80-112-0072-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Blue","offer_id":32119133241427,"sku":"80-112-0071-201-36","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/ammolite-multi-in-hand.jpg?v=1756134335"},{"product_id":"burmite-cretaceous-amber-from-myanmar","title":"Burmite Cretaceous Amber","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/burmite-front_1024x1024.jpg?v=1597695599\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAmber is a beautiful substance used by humans for thousands of years. Beginning as plant resin, amber forms very slowly under tremendous heat and pressure for millions of years, eventually becoming a low-density, amorphous solid. The process of molecular polymerization also preserves traces of climate and life in nearly perfect condition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/after-hours-amber-market_1024x1024.jpg?v=1597697147\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Hans inspecting a large piece of Burmite after hours in the amber markets of Téngchōng, China.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a polished bead of Cretaceous amber from the Hukawng Valley of Northern Myanmar (Burma). It was acquired personally by Hans Fex during a trip to the amber markets of Téngchōng, China, which sits very close to the border of Myanmar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e Seeds, small leaves, and pollen grains are abundant in all specimens. One \u003cem\u003emay\u003c\/em\u003e also find small arthropods (i.e. insects and arachnids). This is not guaranteed, and in most cases, the creatures will be quite tiny if they are present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/Amber_Inspection_Andrea_1024x1024.jpg?v=1597697593\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Inspecting amber.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs with any amber specimen, the smaller pieces tend to have the most clarity but they are all incredibly beautiful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/large-burmite_1024x1024.jpg?v=1599239845\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A selection of Large Burmite pieces showing the range of colors and shapes.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll specimens ship inside our classic, glass-topped riker boxes cases. The cases measure 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also included. As pictured, smaller sizes will be enclosed in acrylic specimen jars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/small-burmite_1024x1024.jpg?v=1599239891\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A selection of Small Burmite pieces showing the range of colors and shapes.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Burmese Amber\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"Originally sought as a precious substance, Burmese amber retains its mystique, but now scientifically as a window to a unique, highly diverse Mesozoic microbiota worthy of intense exploration.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e~ David A. Grimaldi, Curator, American Museum of Natural History \"Fossiliferous Cretaceous Amber from Myanmar (Burma): Its Rediscovery, Biotic Diversity, and Paleontological Significance\" (2002)\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eIn the northern Burmese Hukawng Valley, amber has been mined from seams of lignite interbedded with clay and shale. However, these sediments are much younger in age (Eocene) than the amber, which is Mid-Cretaceous. Here the amber has been reworked from older sediments and redeposited in these younger layers of sediment.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAmber which has been dated to be older than 65 million years is a significant treasure trove where inclusions of ancient extinct small flora and fauna are frozen in time. Dating the amber itself is the challenge.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eThe sediment layer from which amber is mined can be dated radiometrically using zircons. In these deposits, where the amber has been reworked, it can be dated by the included biota themselves. However, amber from the Hukawng Valley was found to have a clay matrix that encased the unprocessed amber pieces. It was possible to extract zircons from the matrix and these were dated to the Mid-Cretaceous.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/amber-01_1024x1024.jpg?v=1597697267\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eKnown as Burmite, Cretaceous Burmese amber has been found to have inclusions of a high diversity of terrestrial fauna and flora. At least 228 families of organisms have been recorded, including many new taxa. Arthropods (insects) are predominant, with mites, ticks, termites, and lice being the most abundant. The amber beetle collection is very rare and significant.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/burmite-back_1024x1024.png?v=1597696255\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAbove: Back of Specimen Card\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":32168904327251,"sku":"80-112-0077-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Medium","offer_id":41983385239635,"sku":"80-112-0342-201-40","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Large","offer_id":32168904360019,"sku":"80-112-0078-201-36","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"XL","offer_id":41983385763923,"sku":"80-112-0343-201-40","price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-burmite-01-1000.jpg?v=1599239590"},{"product_id":"golden-gate-bridge-suspender-rope","title":"Golden Gate Bridge Suspender Rope","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/golden-gate-front-02_1024x1024.png?v=1598907643\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of Specimen Card (Classic San Francisco Post Card c. 1930-1945, \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/boston_public_library\/7683993800\"\u003eBoston Public Library\u003c\/a\u003e)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eOn May 27th, 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge opened to the public, fulfilling a decades-long dream of \"Bridging the Gate.”  Spanning 1,280 meters (4,200 ft), the Golden Gate Bridge was the longest suspension bridge in the world.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/GOLDEN-GATE-smaller_1024x1024.png?v=1598909120\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Image of the bridge from \"The Golden Gate bridge: report of the chief engineer to the Board of directors of the Golden Gate Bridge and Highway District, California, September, 1937.\"\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe main support cables of the Golden Gate Bridge consist of 27,572 galvanized wires, bundled by custom cable bands. Across the entire structure, the cable wires have an average tensile strength of 235,600lbs per square inch. From time to time, the main cables are tightened but unlike the suspender ropes, they can never be replaced.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/21_-_golden-gate-macro_1024x1024.jpg?v=1598909653\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A suspender rope bundle.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a fragment of one of the \u003cem\u003eoriginal\u003c\/em\u003e 250 pairs of vertical suspender ropes attached to the main cables. The ropes were replaced in the mid-70s, and the State of California sold some of the material to help pay for the work. The process took four years and was itself considered a major engineering feat.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are two sizes available. Both sizes ship inside our classic, glass-topped riker cases. The cases measure 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also included. The smaller specimen is also enclosed in an acrylic specimen jar. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout the Golden Gate Bridge\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"At last, the mighty task is done.\" ~ Joseph B. Strauss\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/golden-gate-perspective_1024x1024.jpg?v=1598910014\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAbove: The Golden Gate today \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eOn May 27th, 1937, the Golden Gate Bridge opened to the public, fulfilling the decades-long dream of \"Bridging the Gate\".  Today, the bridge remains a marvel of engineering, representing the will to achieve what others said could not be done.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eDeveloping the political support necessary to build such a monumental structure, fell to Chief Engineer Joseph B. Strauss.  For nearly a decade, Strauss worked to promote the bridge.  He wrangled financing, fought lawsuits, and oversaw the execution of the project.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eWhen it came time to build, Strauss put just as much hard work into the construction, delivering just five months beyond the promise date and $1.3M under budget.  Less than a year after the Golden Gate Bridge opened to the public, Strauss passed away, suffering a massive stroke while recuperating in Arizona.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eWhile Strauss is rightly credited with giving so much to the Golden Gate Bridge, this structure is also the work of many thousands of men, including designer Charles Alton Ellis.  Ellis and Strauss had a difficult falling out during the early stages of construction, which led to Ellis' expulsion from the project.  The State of California recognized his contribution in 2007.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/golden-gate-back_1024x1024.png?v=1598908608\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Back of the Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Small","offer_id":32201672491091,"sku":"80-112-0075-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false},{"title":"Large","offer_id":32201672523859,"sku":"80-112-0082-201-36","price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/golden-gate-small-context-suspender-ropes-03.jpg?v=1682089036"},{"product_id":"ammonite","title":"Ammonite","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/ammonite-front_1024x1024.png?v=1598985919\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003eAmmonites are an extinct group of cephalopods that entered the fossil record 400 million years ago.  They survived several mass extinction events, including the Permian–Triassic \"Great Dying\" which wiped out 96% of all marine species.  They finally succumbed during the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event 66 million years ago, which also wiped out the dinosaurs.\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis specimen is a fossilized ammonite shell from Madagascar\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003eThere are two styles: split and whole.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/ammonite-selection_1024x1024.jpg?v=1599239170\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A sampling of all available sizes and styles.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSplit specimens are precision cut to reveal the interior spiral. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/large-sliced-ammonite_1024x1024.jpg?v=1599239198\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A large split specimen.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhole specimens are suitable for tabletop display. They range in size from 3cm to 5cm in diameter. The outer surface is polished to reveal the sutures in the shell.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/whole-ammonites_1024x1024.jpg?v=1599239226\" loading=\"lazy\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Two whole specimens.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAll specimens \u003c\/span\u003ecome inside our classic, glass-topped riker display cases. The cases measure 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also enclosed that also serves as the certificate of authenticity. \u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Split (Small)","offer_id":32203025088595,"sku":"80-112-0079-201-36","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Split (Large)","offer_id":32203025121363,"sku":"80-112-0080-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Whole","offer_id":32203025154131,"sku":"80-112-0081-201-36","price":39.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-ammonite-small-01-1000.jpg?v=1599238521"},{"product_id":"dracula-soil","title":"Dracula Soil 🦇","description":"\u003cblockquote\u003e\u003cem\u003e\"He was deathly pale, just like a waxen image, and the red eyes glared with the horrible vindictive look which I knew so well.\" ~ Bram Stoker, Dracula (1897)\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a vial of earth from Cetatea Poenari, one of the favorite haunts of Vlad Tepes III, Prince of Wallachia, and member of the house of Drăculești. The soil was collected in person and with permission by our co-founder and the creator of the Mini Museum. The soil is contained in a small, glass vial with a cork stopper. The vial is enclosed in a handsome, glass-topped riker box case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also included, which serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlease see our website for even more information about this specimen, Vlad Tepes, and Cetatea Poenari.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32246001860691,"sku":"80-112-0084-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-dracula-soil.jpg?v=1601410460"},{"product_id":"abraham-lincoln-springfield-brick","title":"Abraham Lincoln Springfield Brick","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/lincoln-front-03_1024x1024.png?v=1601905340\" loading='lazy\"'\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of the Specimen Card\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDuring his life, Abraham Lincoln only owned one home: 413 South Eighth Street in Springfield, Illinois. The Lincoln family moved to the property in 1844 and the building would be their home through highs and lows in both family and political life. This specimen is a fragment of brick from the walkway of that home. The brick was removed during renovation work in 1954. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOriginally, part of the First Edition of the Mini Museum we are proud to offer it once more as a stand-alone item.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/process-lincoln-brick_1024x1024.jpg?v=1601910103\" alt=\"\" loading='lazy\"'\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Macro image of brick specimen preparation in-process\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach hand-cut brick fragment is encased inside an acrylic specimen jar and presented in one of our classic, glass-topped riker display boxes. The size varies but o\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003en average the fragments measure 1 x 0.5 x 0.5 cm. \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThe riker display box measures 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also included, which serves as the certificate of authenticity.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32256941523027,"sku":"80-112-0085-201-36","price":29.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/abraham-lincoln-MAIN-001.jpg?v=1762978564"},{"product_id":"bismuth-crystal","title":"Bismuth Crystal with Iridescent Oxide","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/bismuth-front_1024x1024.png?v=1602509491\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Front of specimen card.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\"The Philosopher takes pleasure in the contemplation of the nature of these compounds while the miner takes pleasure in the profit and use he obtains from the metals he extracts from them.\" ~ Georgius Agricola, 1546\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis specimen is a complete bismuth crystal. They are hand cast in Colorado by a family that specializes in creating bismuth crystals for the jewelry industry. We loved them so much that we had to share them with you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/bismuth-crystals-in-hand_1024x1024.jpg?v=1602707235\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A pair of Bismuth crystals in hand.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eA classic piece for every natural history collection, Bismuth, element 83, is known best for its multicolor formations of a deep, staircase-like structure. These fractal patterns are known as hopper crystals, identifiable by their hollow step lattices. When bismuth cools it forms in a rhombohedral structure with the edges of the formation crystallizing at a much faster rate than the center of the faces. This pulls material away from the interior and leaves gaps in the structure, causing the final product to appear hollow. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/bismuth-crystal-pinch_1024x1024.jpg?v=1602707663\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: Close-up of a specimen displaying the intricate lattice pattern.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe crystal’s uniquely iridescent shine also occurs during its formation process. While the metal’s true color is a white silver, it can oxidize during the cooling process to form a thin layer of film.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/bismuth-ingot-detail_1024x1024.jpg?v=1602707304\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A pure Bismuth ingot. We've used this material to make some of our bismuth crystals and it is a fun challenge!\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis film interferes with light waves, giving bismuth its colorful appearance, similar in process to the rainbow glimmer of a soap bubble. While these formations do not appear often in nature, bismuth’s relatively low melting point of 520 °F means it is possible to create synthetic bismuth crystals at home with the right materials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cimg class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/bismuth-wide_1024x1024.jpg?v=1602707388\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eAbove: A selection of Bismuth crystals\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs you can see, each crystal is a unique and beautiful natural art object. No two will be alike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/bismuth-closeup_1024x1024.jpg?v=1602511664\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThe specimen is contained inside an acrylic specimen jar. The jar is enclosed inside a classic, glass-topped riker display case measuring 4 1\/2\" x 3 1\/2\". A small information card is also included.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e This specimen is 100% safe to handle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eWhile it can be used as a replacement for lead or as a pigment in cosmetics, Bismuth is most commonly used for medicinal purposes in the compound bismuth subsalicylate, known under the brand name Pepto-Bismol. It is not well understood how bismuth subsalicylate operates when ingested, but it is thought that it stimulates the absorption of fluid and electrolytes within the intestine while inhibiting inflammations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eLong thought to have been the heaviest nonradioactive element, researchers in 2003 discovered that the naturally occurring isotope of the bismuth did in fact undergo alpha decay and calculated a half-life of 1.9×10^19 years. Luckily, this half-life is about a billion times longer than the current age of the universe, meaning that you won’t have to worry about any radioactivity from Pepto-Bismol or this specimen. 😎\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFurther Reading:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAgricola, Georgius. De Natura Fossilium (Textbook of Mineralogy). Geological Society of America, 1955.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ede Marcillac, P., Coron, N., Dambier, G. et al. Experimental detection of α-particles from the radioactive decay of natural bismuth. Nature 422, 876–878 (2003)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" class=\"lazyload\" data-src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/files\/bismuth-back_1024x1024.png?v=1602509532\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e Above: Back of specimen card.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mini Museum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32271339585619,"sku":"80-112-0088-201-39","price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/products\/add-on-bismuth-01.jpg?v=1602511422"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0709\/1715\/collections\/back_to_school_sq_v3.png?v=1755274879","url":"https:\/\/shop.minimuseum.com\/collections\/backtoschool-30-off-sale.oembed?page=7","provider":"Mini Museum","version":"1.0","type":"link"}