A new look at the ‘mineral kingdom’ may transform how we search for life
Research also shows Earth may have been ready for life to form earlier than typically thought
![yellowish white calcite crystal that formed in a cave](https://i0.wp.com/www.sciencenews.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/063022_AS_mineral-kingdom_feat.jpg?fit=1030%2C580&ssl=1)
Calcite can form in 17 different ways, more than almost any other mineral. This calcite, which formed in a cave, got its distinctive shape from changing water levels.
Rob Lavinsky/ARKENSTONE