Teaching Resources

 Welcome to the MSSC’s mineral education page!

Our Society members are always eager to share the excitement of minerals with others, and we have few things that we would like to share with you below. If there are specific questions that you think we can help you with, contact us at president@mineralsocal.org


1. Crystal models to make.

Download 6 full-page files for printing these crystal models to cut out and paste together:

  • Cube
  • Tetrahedron
  • Octahedron
  • Dodecahedron
  • Hexagonal Prism
  • Rhombohedron

Directions for assembling the models are on the files. For best results, print the models on cover or card stock. It is easiest to stick the models together with double-sided tape. Kids love to decorate the models with crayons, markers, and stickers.

Who makes crystal models? Young children love learning about these shapes. It is an excellent exercise in 3-dimensional thinking for all ages. Beginning scientists study models such as these when learning about crystal symmetry. If this last is of interest to you, check out any standard mineralogy textbook.

2. “Crystal Quest” is a treasure-hunt style set of questions to be used by visitors to the  Gem and Mineral Hall of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Exposition Park. Two versions are available here (one with answers and one without):

Click to download