Chimp Crystals Hint at Deep Evolution of Humans' Fascination with Shiny Stones

Encultured chimpanzees showed a strong attraction to quartz crystals, preferring them over ordinary rocks, carrying crystals to sleeping areas, and even selecting crystals from a pile in tests, suggesting a possible deep evolutionary pull toward shiny minerals. The findings could shed light on why humans have long valued crystals and gems, hinting at cognitive roots for value, though results must be interpreted cautiously since the chimps were not wild and replication in wild populations is needed.