Method and kit for growing cross-shaped crystals

Abstract

The present invention provides a method for growing crystals in a gel matrix by reacting tartrate anions with cations, the cations selected from the group consisting of K+, Ca2+, Na+, Mg2+ and Li+. A method particularly adapted for crowing cross-shaped crystals includes forming a gel matrix through cooling of a mixture of potassium bitartrate, boiling water and gelatin to less than 65° F. until the matrix solidifies, adding calcium chloride to the gel matrix to react the calcium chloride with the potassium bitartrate at a temperature of preferably less than 65° F. until crystals form, and separating cross-shaped crystals that have reached a desired size from the gel matrix by warming the gel to a liquid state and removing the crystals.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.