MINERALS IN MINECRAFT

A temporary mini-exhibition from April 1 to August 29, 2025

PRESENTATION OF THE MINI-EXHIBITION "MINERALS IN MINECRAFT"

Paris School of Mines (Mines Paris - PSL) presents a small exhibition in the permanent gallery of its Mineralogy Museum, showcasing the minerals and rocks used in the popular video game “Minecraft”. This “mini-exhibition” is displayed in the museum's main hall, and opens on the same day as the preview of the new movie “Minecraft, The Movie”, on April 1, 2025.

Humanity has shaped its world by harnessing natural resources. Today, Minecraft invites millions of players to explore, mine, and transform materials to build their own universe.

But how accurately does the game reflect the reality of the minerals around us? This exhibition takes you on a journey through the connections between the virtual and the real world, comparing Minecraft’s iconic blocks with the actual materials that make up our planet. A fun and scientific adventure not to be missed!

From Minecraft to the Hidden Treasures of the Earth

Dive into the fascinating world of minerals through Minecraft’s legendary pixelated blocks! This mini-exhibition offers a playful introduction to mineralogy by linking the virtual universe of the game with real-life natural treasures.

At the heart of the museum, within a 70m² space, ten display cases reveal a special selection of specimens: around forty minerals, rocks, meteorites, and gemstones mirroring Minecraft’s iconic blocks.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Each theme presented will lead you to other specimens scattered throughout the gallery, inviting you to further explore the world of rocks and minerals.

Discover the dazzling brilliance of gemstones like emerald and diamond, formed deep within the Earth, and look up to the stars with fascinating meteorites, messengers from outer space.

"Minerals in Minecraft", a small exhibit at the Mineralogy Museum of Mines Paris - PSL. Photo credit: Romain Bolzoni / Musée de Minéralogie Mines Paris - PSL.

One of the display cases dedicated to quartz and its purple variety: the amethyst. Photo credit: Musée de Minéralogie Mines Paris - PSL.

Exhibition Design

Organizer:

Mineralogy Museum, Mines Paris – PSL

Exhibition Curators:

Romain Bolzoni – Associate Curator

Marine Wavrant – Science Mediation Apprentice

both at the Mineralogy Museum, Mines Paris – PSL

Technical Support:

The team of the Mineralogy Museum, Mines Paris – PSL, composed of, Éloïse Gaillou (Museum Director), Romain Bolzoni (Associate Curator), Farida Maouche (Administrative Manager), Marius Aprile (Receptionist, Stage Manager/steward/bailiff), Marine Wavrant (Science Mediation Apprentice).

Lighting Design:

Loupi – Frank Hillereau – Philippe Mathias

Graphic Design & Scenography:

Romain Bolzoni – Marine Wavrant

Special Thanks:

Dylan Seguenot-Grapin and Mines Paris – PSL

"Minerals in Minecraft", a small exhibit at the Mineralogy Museum of Mines Paris - PSL. Photo credit: Romain Bolzoni / Musée de Minéralogie Mines Paris - PSL.