The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) and Wiley—a multinational publishing company—are partnering to digitize one of the world’s most significant mineral collections, creating a global database designed to expand scientific access and accelerate research across geology, chemistry, materials science, and related disciplines.

The initiative will transform more than 120,000 mineral specimens and 5,000 gemstones into comprehensive spectroscopic datasets, forming a reference-grade digital library for mineral identification and analysis. The first tranche of data is expected to be released this spring.

By converting physical specimens into accessible digital resources, the database aims to support both academic and applied research, including algorithm development and advanced materials modelling. Wiley says the platform will serve scientists, students, and industry professionals working across earth sciences, forensics, archaeology, and related fields.

“This project exemplifies Wiley’s commitment to advancing scientific discovery by making high-quality standard reference data accessible to researchers worldwide,” said Graeme Whitley, senior director, data science solutions at Wiley. “The AMNH’s minerals collection represents an extraordinary scientific resource, and by creating comprehensive spectral libraries, we’re enabling researchers everywhere to leverage this knowledge in their work.”