Natural History Museum

一个被纠结的坎

5/5

Outstanding

Revisiting the Natural History Museum in London The Natural History Museum in London, formerly the Natural History Department of the British Museum, officially became independent in 1963. Climbing the magnificent spiral staircase, the mineral exhibition area on the right side of the second floor resembles a subterranean palace. Among the over 5,000 mineral specimens, the most stunning is the 3-meter-high amethyst wall—a perfectly cut amethyst cave from Brazil, shimmering with a dreamy purple glow under the light. Here, nature is the greatest artist: 1️⃣ The legendary Hope Blue Diamond (replica), this 45.52-carat blue diamond carries a cursed legend. 2️⃣ The 563-carat "Princess of Brazil" topaz, like a beam of frozen sunlight. 3️⃣ The pigeon's blood rubies from Burma, each one a frozen flame. Most magical are the fluorescent mineral displays: the stones, gray under ordinary light, suddenly burst into neon colors under ultraviolet light! The meteorite exhibition hall houses the world's most complete collection of meteorite specimens. The most precious of these is the 4.5-ton Bakubiri meteorite, discovered in Namibia, Africa in 1902. Local tribes used it to forge spearheads. Touching these rocks from outer space allows you to feel the mysterious pulse of the universe. -Don't forget to look up at the ceiling during your visit; the intricately carved botanical patterns are also part of the exhibits. - Free guided tours are often offered on weekend afternoons; check the official website for specific times. - From crystal palaces deep within the Earth to stardust gifts from the vast universe, this museum offers a glimpse into nature's most extravagant treasures. Here, every stone tells the story of Earth's 4.6 billion years.