More than any other feature, Canada is best known for its snow, that great blanket of white that covers the landscape and influences everyday life across the nation; so much so, that extensive research has been undertaken to understand how this climatic phenomenon works. Canada¡¯s research scientists are known for developing the world¡¯s most accurate gauge for recording snowfall and automated sensors that measure snow accumulation and melt on major glaciers and ice sheets. However, most people will agree that snow¡¯s most breathtaking aspects have been brought to light by another long- established piece of equipment: the microscope. The esteemed glass will penetrate the great white expanse and distill a handful of snow down to a perfectly star-shaped snowflake; that iconic symbol that graces everything from winter woollens to jewellery and greeting cards. It falls in countless shapes and sizes but always maintains its basic six-sided structure. And while its star- like shape may appear perfectly symmetrical to the naked eye, the microscope will reveal just how intricate it is; and how each branch is slightly different from the others. Not all snowflakes are created equal. If it is very cold, they will fall as -dry¡¬ powder. Or, they may also take the shape of slender hexagonal columns that look like tiny wooden pencils under the microscope. The iconic star-shape people adore will only occur when the temperature is around -15¡ã C (5¡ã F) and the ice crystal can grow large and drift gently earthward without hitting any other crystals. With or without a microscope, the “six-sided dendrite ice crystal” is a beauty to behold. Special features: – The latest issue in this immensely popular series of Crystal Snowflake Coins. Each 99.99% pure silver coin perfectly showcases the intricate beauty of Canada’s most defining climatic feature, the snowflake. Coin enhanced with six Swarovski Elements for a stunning crystalline effect. Two spectacular crystal colours for 2010: Blue and Tanzanite. Product specifications: – Face Value: 20 dollars – Mintage: 15,000 (2 versions combined; 7,500 for Tanzanite; 7,500 for Blue) – Composition: 99.99% pure silver – Weight (g): 31.39 – Diameter (mm): 38 – Edge: Serrated – Finish: Proof embedded Swarovski Elements – Certificate: Serialized – Artist: Konrad Wachelko Packaging: – Coin is encapsulated and presented in a maroon clamshell case lined with flock and protected by a black sleeve. Thank you for loooking to my items any questions please ask.