The Create Your Own Crystal Garden Kit from British Fossils contains pieces of limestone which when dipped in distilled white vinegar produce real crystals similar to those shown in the photo. Limestone is calcium carbonate and reacts with vinegar (acetic acid) to form calcium acetate. Historically called acetate lime, calcium acetate has a number of uses including as a food additive and in the production of tofu. Completely safe for children when instructions are followed.

Instructions

Place the stones in a container, if you want them to be the same color they can stay together, otherwise place them separate.
Add enough distilled white vinegar (available in all supermarkets) just to cover the stones.
Leave the container in a warm place (window sills are not recommended). For very fast results, place a radiator or heat source on top.
Crystals will begin to grow in the first two weeks; growth usually continues until all the vinegar has evaporated.
The crystals will be white. You can add food coloring if you like for a pop of color. This must be done before all the vinegar has evaporated.
Once all the vinegar has evaporated, do not add more and wait a few more days for the crystals to harden before handling.

Contains 1 kit Create your Crystal Garden (basin, vinegar and food coloring not included).
Dimensions package 8cmX8cmX3

Stones