The 48 Special Crystal Forms

IMPORTANT NOTE:
Thingiverse files can't be sorted into folders (or I don't know about it), so it looks like a real mess here. If you want to see the models in a more organized way, you can visit the Maker World or Printables page
direct links:
https://makerworld.com/en/models/1105154#profileId-1100930
https://www.printables.com/model/1190361-the-48-special-crystal-forms

Hey, I'm a geology student at the University of Warsaw. During my studies, while learning about crystallography, I discovered that there are no downloadable 3D models of the 48 basic crystallographic forms available online. The only ones I found could either be viewed in 3D view or downloaded individually, but a complete set of whole group was missing. This really frustrated me and I couldn't believe something like this wasn't available online. Wanting to print my own collection, I decided to create the models myself.
To avoid making everything manually, I first tried generating the models using AI-generated code. That plan failed.
So, I started looking for software that could help me create them. After a long search, I found the perfect tool for the job, one that works in a browser. It’s an amazing program that I learned to use through trial and error. After a few hours, I had successfully created all 48 basic forms. The program is called Smorf, and here is the link: https://www.smorf.nl/draw.php. You’ll find that the author allows modification and commercialization of the downloaded models. I highly recommend trying it out yourself!
I believe that these crystallographic forms should be freely available to anyone interested and easy to find. That’s why I’m sharing these files on three platforms: MakerWorld, Thingiverse, and Printables. You can find links to other sites in my bio. (ps. by downloading from MakerWorld you can help me get some free filament)

I provide four groups of files:

  1. Unmodified models – 48 basic crystallographic forms with improved topology.
  2. Models optimized for 3D printing – Some files remain unchanged, while others (e.g., dipyramids) are split in half and include slots for connecting pins. Theirs names ends with „(halves)”.
  3. 48 basic forms with thickened edges – I created this version to make the models more visually appealing and easier to label. These models are also optimized for printing, just like in point 2. Their names ends with "bicolor".
  4. Additional elements – Connecting pins with different tolerances and stands for few models.
    INFORMATION ABOUT THE MODELS:
    • Ensure good bed adhesion and avoid warping. Even a slight edge distortion can significantly affect the final look, especially for models printed in two parts. I recommend using PETG filament.
    • A smooth plate will give the best first-layer finish, but a textured plate won’t interfere with model assembly.
    • Stands for Pedion and Pinacoid are designed so the models can simply slide into them.
    • Stands for Dome and Sphenoid require instant glue for attachment.
    • If you can use a pin with the smallest tolerance, you probably won’t need glue. However, for larger tolerances, a few drops of instant glue might be necessary.
    • The .3mf file containing bicolor models already has the edges painted.

I’ve spent quite a lot of timeon this (probably too much). I’d really appreciate constructive or simply positive feedback. If you know any geologists who use 3D printers, feel free to share this with them!
If you notice any errors, please let me know in the comments. I’ve checked everything multiple times, but I’m only human.