In this super fun, easy, and inexpensive tutorial, we are going to make a Ruby and Sapphire Mine Edible Excavation that the young Excavating Adventurers in your life will love. This Ruby and Sapphire Mine Edible Excavation is a spin on good old fashioned Rice Krispies Treats recipe, but we add a fun Excavating Adventures activity to take this treat to a whole other level of fun. We’ll take this tasty treat and turn it into a delicious ruby and sapphire mine to explore and discover the yummy edible rubies and sapphires we have hidden inside.
Excavating Adventures Pro Tip: Use this edible excavation to create some fun and excitement around topics or lessons concerning gemstones, rubies, sapphires, and more!
Find real rubies, sapphires, topaz, emeralds and more in our Gemstone Journey Extreme Excavating Adventure.
Materials:
6 Tbsp salted butter
6 cups mini marshmallows – Mini marshmallows melt easier than the larger ones.
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
4 cups Cocoa Rice Krispies cereal
Several packs of M&Ms
13 x 9 x 2-inch pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula
Cooking spray
Plastic spoons, forks, and knives. These will be the excavation tools.
- Remove all the red and blue M&Ms. These will be our edible rubies and sapphires.
- In large saucepan melt butter over low heat.
- Add the mini marshmallows and stir until completely melted. Remove from heat.
- Add the Cocoa Rice Krispies cereal. Stir until well coated.
- Coat the 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan with cooking spray.
- Using a buttered spatula or wax paper, evenly press a thin layer of mixture into the pan.
- Quickly scatter the red and blue M&Ms in the pan and press another layer of Rice Krispies mixture on top.
- Allow to cool.
- Cut into 2-inch squares. The Ruby and Sapphire Mine Edible Excavation is best if served the same day.
- Distribute the “excavation tools” and encourage the Excavating Adventurers to dig in and discover the rubies and sapphires as they become gem miners for the day.
Sparkling Gems: Fun Facts About Rubies and Sapphires!
Fun Facts about Rubies and Sapphires:
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Rubies and sapphires are both varieties of the mineral corundum, with different colors resulting from impurities in the crystal structure.
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Rubies are known for their intense red color, while sapphires come in a range of colors, although blue is the most famous.
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Rubies and sapphires are both valued for their durability and hardness, ranking 9 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, second only to diamonds.
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Rubies were historically associated with passion, courage, and protection, while sapphires were believed to symbolize wisdom, loyalty, and nobility.
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The largest ruby ever found weighs over 18,000 carats and is named the "Star of Bharany."
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Sapphires can come in various colors, including blue, pink, yellow, green, and even colorless, depending on the presence of different impurities.
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Both rubies and sapphires are commonly used in jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, and bracelets, to create stunning and vibrant pieces.
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Rubies and sapphires are found in many countries around the world, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Madagascar, and Australia.
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In ancient times, rubies were believed to possess protective powers, and warriors often wore them into battle to grant them strength and courage.
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Sapphires have been historically linked to royalty, with many famous royal families adorning themselves with these stunning gemstones.
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The value of rubies and sapphires is determined by factors such as color, clarity, size, and origin.
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Rubies and sapphires are not only beautiful gems but also hold cultural significance in various traditions and folklore around the world.
Remember, rubies and sapphires are dazzling gems that have captured hearts throughout history with their brilliant colors and rich symbolism!
Excavating Adventures Pro Tip: Planning a geology themed birthday party? These Ruby and Sapphire Mine Edible Excavations are always a huge hit. Your birthday party guests will love digging into these delicious treats and discovering the edible rubies and sapphires inside. You may also want to consider including our Rocks and Minerals Birthday Digs in your celebration. Each no-prep kit is designed to excite and entertain birthday guest and is filled with real rocks and minerals for your guest to discover and collect! We also have tons of DIY blog posts if you wanting to make your own geology excavation activities. Check them out and Happy Excavating!
Question 1: Which gemstone is known for its intense red color? A) Sapphire B) Diamond C) Ruby D) Emerald
Correct answer: C) Ruby
Question 2: What is the primary color associated with sapphires? A) Green B) Blue C) Red D) Yellow
Correct answer: B) Blue
Question 3: What is the mineral that forms both rubies and sapphires? A) Diamond B) Quartz C) Corundum D) Topaz
Correct answer: C) Corundum