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The Geode was designated as the official rock of Iowa in 1967 to promote tourism in the state. Iowa is known worldwide because of the large number of rare and beautiful geodes found in the state. The Latin word "geodes" means earthlike, and geodes are shaped like the earth with a hard outer shell that when cut reveals a core of sparkling mineral crystals (usually quartz and calcite).
Southeastern Iowa is one of the state's best Geode collecting areas. Geode State Park, in Henry County, is named for the occurrence of the Geode.

Close-up photo of polished geode © Ryan Salsbury 2004:
from The Best Links.com - Geode
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