The article summarizes information of the crystal morphological features of zircon from metamorphic rocks, its internal structure, crystal matrix chemism, and rare earth element distribution. These data make it possible to reveal discriminant features of zircon as depend on the origin of the substance crystallized and the conditions of its transformation during metamorphism. For a reliable assessment of the content of elements in zircon, it is necessary to perform a set of analytical methods, since the concentration of impurities varies significantly even in samples from the same rock. This makes it possible to determine the range of variations and to evaluate the dynamics of the distribution of elements in zircons from metamorphic rocks of various genesis.

Brief information about the author’s course dedicated to crystal growth is provided. The education program gives general information of the mechanisms of crystal growth, the main growing methods, crystal formation in nature and under home conditions. Issues of the origin of the first group gemstones, the specifics of their formation in the laboratory, methods of treatment and application are considered. A large amount of information is given, that’s why the course is divided into four sections and clearly structured within each of them. This helps to make it easier to perceive. Online course design allows the lecturer to effectively interact with the audience.

Here is a brief overview of the author’s lecture series — an additional general education program “Mineralogical Journey into the Depths of the Earth and Back” dedicated to minerals characterizing the main layers of the Earth, namely: the crust, the upper and lower mantle, and the core. The Program provides a general understanding of the Earth’s structure and minerals, their main properties, and natural formation processes. It covers key minerals of the Earth’s crust such as quartz, gemstones like ruby, sapphire, emerald, etc., as well as mantle minerals, including diamond. Information on the application of these minerals in technology and the jewelry industry is also presented. During the preparation and conduction of the online course, the author implemented an individualized approach, which helps enhancing the learners’ understanding and increase their satisfaction. This course was developed by the author and piloted at the Earth Science Museum of Moscow State University named after Lomonosov. To facilitate the absorption of a large amount of information, the series is divided into four sessions and clearly structured within each one. The online format enables the lecturer to interact fully with the audience at any time convenient for the participants.

Brief information about the author’s course dedicated to the world of gemstones is provided. Data of first-order gemstones (diamond, emerald, sapphire, ruby, alexandrite and pearl) are given. The questions of the discovery history of these gemstones, their classification, properties, formation in nature, methods of synthesis, methods of refining, as well as estimation systems are considered. Due to a large amount of information, the course is divided into four sections and clearly structured in each of them. This helps to make it easier to perceive. Online course design allows the lecturer to effectively interact with the audience.