Osmium is fast emerging as the sexiest element to collect. This precious metal has historically been known basically only to scientists, its primary “real world” use being the deadly compound known as osmium tetroxide which has the ability to very densely stain tissues. This makes it useful for adding contrast when examining samples of these tissues under a microscope. Outside of the not-at-all exciting world of histology though, osmium has historically shared the same chemical doldrums as the Rare Earth Elements. And just as with the REEs, of late osmium’s star has begun to shine given its innate beauty, record-setting density and extreme rarity: perfect ingredients for inspiring high end jewelry and investors looking for the next hot market.

Here on offer for the first time is osmium in its crystalline form. Unlike the powdery origins of the cheaper sintered type, osmium’s crystalline nature is unleashed in the Sun-like temperatures reached in arc melting furnaces. Unlike ordinary furnaces, these laboratory devices don’t depend on heating elements but rather harness the property of electrical resistance to do the job. Absent any other path, passing a current that is forced to go through a little of that osmium powder generates intense resistance which, in turn, results in crazy hot temps that can render even this notoriously high melting metal into a puddle in short order. Cut the power and the white hot lump is allowed to cool slowly and in the absence of air its atoms settle down into an orderly pattern; a crystal.

Whether you’re a collector, a leading edge investor or simply enjoy science here’s a great opportunity to own a little of this truly rare and exotic substance in a beautiful format. Each crystal will come with its weight meticulously recorded with sub-milligram accuracy.