We all know that gems are formed deep within the earth’s surface. It is important for kids to know the layers of the earth in order to fully understand where and how gems are formed. When you teach the earth's crust, mantle and core, show some images on a PowerPoint presentation, but to really bring the lesson to life you can give each student a hard-boiled egg and instruct them to carefully saw it in half. Explain that the shell is the crust, the white part is the mantle and the yolk is the core (rightfully colored to represent magma). And while students get a good visual aid to complement your lesson, they can enjoy a snack rich in protein.
Gems form through interactions between minerals and water found near the earth’s surface. The chemical reaction that takes place causes the minerals to harden and form into gemstones. Different gemstones are formed in various parts of rock cycles. For example, gems like emeralds and amethysts are formed in igneous rock while jade and turquoise are formed in metamorphic rock. A fun way to teach this to children is to pick up some fake gemstones at a teaching supply store, number them, and bury them in the schoolyard. When each student has found a gem, have them identify it and write a short report on where that gem forms and where it is typically harvested.
Many children don't know that a gem is related to one’s birth month. The American Gem Society reminds us that the origin of birthstones is estimated to date back to the breastplates of ancient Israel and that birthstones are said to have various healing powers. You can assign each student a fun research project where they learn about their birthstone, the legends behind it, and its origins. Depending on the school’s budget or the parent’s willingness to participate in financial contributions, small pieces of gemstones can be purchased for very little money. Children could receive a small piece of their birthstone for their research assignment and to hold on to as a keepsake.
When teaching kids about the formation of gems, consider contacting your local county museum. Most county museums have a gem and rock collection in their geology exhibition and are generally very accommodating when school groups visit. They will often make arrangements to let children handle a gem and various mineral samples. Most county museums employ educational guides that coordinate with teachers to provide their students with specific lesson plans. When teaching kids about the formation of gemstones, a field trip to the local county museum can be very beneficial.