Minerals occur naturally all around us, and humans have been finding ways to use them in our daily lives for centuries. Over the years, some applications have definitely proven more helpful than others, which begs the question: what mineral infusions actually work and improve our lives? And which ones are simply a marketing ploy? As geos, we can use our expertise to help us decide which mineral-based products are worth our time and money.
Where We DO Need Minerals
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We’ve all heard about how minerals and metals are used in electronics like cellphones, but have you heard of these unique uses for common minerals?
Barite in X-ray imaging:
Barite, a mineral composed of barium sulfate, is crucial in X-ray imaging as a contrast agent due to its high density. Prior to imaging, powdered barite is ingested or injected into the body to enhance the visibility of internal organs.
While barite also has many other commercial uses, its use in medicine allows us to see the inside of the body and how it functions, ultimately aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Halite in water softening:
Halite, also known as rock salt, is essential for water softening—removing calcium and magnesium ions that cause hard water. This removal process happens through a series of chemical reactions in which sodium ions react with hard minerals.
Not only does it make our hair and skin feel better after bathing, the process of softening water also prevents limescale buildup in pipes and appliances, improving their efficiency and lifespan.
Mica in makeup:
Mica, a sparkly, flaky sheet silicate, is often used in cosmetics such as eyeshadow to add a natural shimmer. It helps reduce the environmental and biological impact of microplastic-leaching materials like glitter.
Mica is not particularly harmful to life unless large quantities are inhaled or ingested. In standard water treatment, it’s removed along with sediment and other fine, natural particles.
It’s worth noting that the global mica market is known to have a dubious supply chain, so buying cosmetics from companies who prioritize safety and transparency can help shift the industry toward better practices.
… And Where Minerals are Just a Marketing Tactic
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Minerals (especially crystals) are a bigger part of mainstream marketing than ever before. More often than not, they’re just baseless gimmicks meant to hook unsuspecting consumers … but we geos are not to be fooled!
Crystal water bottles:
These bottles feature a crystal glued to the bottom, which companies claim infuses the water with healing energy. Not only is it just another one of those hack metaphysical fads, but it can be seriously harmful to the body.
“Healing energy” isn’t the only thing seeping into that water… it’s also dissolving parts of the mineral, some that are toxic to humans and react dangerously to acids (such as those found in the stomach).
On top of doing more harm than good, there is no scientific evidence supporting these purported health benefits, so the concept of crystal-infused water remains purely pseudoscientific.
Gold skincare:
Skincare products made with gold claim anti-aging benefits, but there's little scientific evidence to support these claims. While some research has found that gold nanoparticles can seep into the skin, it hasn’t been proven that they do anything particularly beneficial.
On the contrary, gold can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. It’s important to remember that just because something is natural, doesn’t mean it’s going to be safe or useful.
Despite what the Kardashians say, the high cost of these products is not justified by any significant results.
Copper-infused clothing:
You may have seen late-night infomercials touting the benefits of copper-infused clothing for circulation and pain relief, but what the on-screen salesman won’t tell you is there’s just no scientific proof for these claims.
One popular company, Tommie Copper, was actually penalized by the U.S Federal Trade Commission for this deceptive advertising! They have since dialed back what their product promises.
The truth is that the copper content in fabric does not penetrate the skin effectively enough to offer the claimed health benefits. You’re essentially paying more for slightly heavier clothing, but that’s really it.
A reader wrote in to share this article on the harmful consequences of crystal culture and mining for “healing” crystals to keep up with the western world’s insatiable desire for the next big fad. I found this really insightful, and it inspired me to write this week’s edition.
I hope you find this edition informative and consider where minerals may fit best in your life. If you’re using minerals in a unique way, I’m interested! Drop me a line at editorial@aapg.org.
Thank you all for reading!
Cate Larsen
Editor, GeoLifestyle
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