tippukivi

Tippukivi is the Finnish word for stalactite. Stalactites are mineral formations that hang from the ceiling of caves. They are formed by the slow dripping of water that contains dissolved minerals, most commonly calcite, which is a form of calcium carbonate. As water drips, it leaves behind a small amount of mineral deposit. Over long periods, these deposits build up to form the characteristic icicle-like or conical shape of a stalactite. The growth rate of stalactites is very slow, often measuring only a few centimeters per century. The appearance of a stalactite can vary greatly depending on the mineral content of the water and the environment within the cave. They can be white, brown, or even red, and their texture can range from smooth to rough. In caves where stalactites are found, it is also common to find stalagmites, which are formations that grow upwards from the floor of the cave, formed by the mineral deposits from dripping water.