CHILDREN can learn about the magic of crystals in a new exhibition at Oxford’s Botanic Garden.

Oxford University chemistry department is running the exhibition throughout June to celebrate the United Nation’s International Year of Crystallography.

The exhibition shows visitors crystals at the atomic level, and how they are used in dyes, medicines, minerals and sugar.

James Cooper, 10, of Northbourne School, Didcot, got a preview of the exhibition and got to make a sugar crystal.

He said: “I loved constructing crystals from sweets.”

His brother Matthew, seven, pictured examining a calcite crystal, said: “I like all the different shapes you can make.”

On Saturday, there will be a drop-in event from 11am to 2pm with activities for all ages.

The exhibition runs until June 28.

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