The highly anticipated first season of Ruri Rocks (also known as Ruri no Hōseki or Introduction to Mineralogy), an anime adaptation of Keiichirō Shibuya’s popular manga, has officially wrapped, leaving fans to ponder the shimmering facets of its conclusion. Airing from July to September 2025, the series enchanted viewers with its unique blend of adventure, slice-of-life charm, and educational insights into the world of mineralogy. As the final episode aired on September 28, 2025, audiences were treated to a thoughtful culmination of Ruri’s journey of discovery and passion.
The Allure of Ruri Rocks: A Journey of Discovery
Ruri Rocks introduces Ruri Tanigawa, a high school student initially drawn to the aesthetic appeal of jewelry and shiny objects. Her fascination takes a scientific turn when she encounters Nagi Arato, a graduate student specializing in mineralogy. This serendipitous meeting sparks a profound interest in Ruri, transforming her casual admiration into a genuine pursuit of earth sciences. The series beautifully portrays their adventures, as Ruri, Nagi, and their friends explore mountains, rivers, and caves, armed with tools like panning dishes, rock hammers, and topographic maps, all in search of elusive minerals such as quartz, garnets, pyrite, and gold.
The narrative excels in making mineral collecting a captivating “modern-day treasure hunt,” filled with fascinating details and explanations about geological processes, plate tectonics, and the formation of various crystals. It’s a testament to the show’s charm that it manages to make academic subjects both accessible and exciting, fostering a sense of wonder for the natural world.
Episode 12: A Near-Finale of Generational Connection
Leading into the true conclusion, Episode 12 initially presented itself with many hallmarks of a season finale. This episode intricately wove a narrative around Ruri discovering a connection to her deceased grandfather through an old crystal radio and the minerals used in its construction. The story explored themes of intergenerational communication and how Ruri’s burgeoning knowledge of mineralogy allowed her to posthumously connect with her grandfather’s hobbies and legacy.
The episode was praised for its thematic depth, showcasing Ruri’s growth and her realization that studying one field can ripple out into broader interests and personal history. The placement of the opening theme song in a climactic context at the episode’s end further amplified its “finale-like” feel. However, in a surprising turn, a post-credits scene revealed that Episode 12 was not the actual season finale, but rather a lead-up to a thirteenth and final episode, setting up further adventures for the characters.
The True Season Finale: Episode 13’s Culmination
The actual season finale, Episode 13, aired shortly after Episode 12, bringing the first arc of Ruri Rocks to a close on September 28, 2025. While specific plot details of Episode 13 are yet to be widely detailed in available summaries, it is highly probable that the episode delivered on the overarching themes developed throughout the season.
Given the series’ trajectory, the finale likely focused on:
- Ruri’s Continued Growth: Consolidating Ruri’s transformation from a high schooler with a casual interest in “shiny things” to a budding mineralogist with a deep appreciation for the science and history embedded in rocks. Her journey has consistently highlighted the importance of active learning, curiosity, and the joy of discovery.
- Deepened Relationships: The bond between Ruri and Nagi, as well as with their other friends like Yoko, is a core element of the show. The finale would have likely showcased the strength of these mentorships and friendships, which have been instrumental in Ruri’s development and understanding of the world around her.
- The Beauty of Mineralogy: The series consistently emphasizes the awe-inspiring beauty and scientific significance of minerals. The finale would have undoubtedly delivered a final, impactful message about the wonders of geology and the endless discoveries awaiting those who look closely at the earth beneath their feet. The exploration of rare finds, and the human stories intertwined with them, have been recurring motifs.
- Looking to the Future: While concluding the immediate narrative, a series like Ruri Rocks often ends with a sense of open-ended possibility, hinting at further adventures and continued learning for its characters. This aligns with the thematic exploration of continuous scientific inquiry and the idea that discovery never truly ends.
The Lasting Impact of Ruri Rocks
Ruri Rocks has successfully carved out a niche as an engaging and educational anime. Its ability to blend “cute girls doing cute things” with genuine geological education has resonated with viewers, making complex scientific concepts enjoyable and accessible. The finale, in its closing notes, serves not just as an end to a season but as a celebration of curiosity, mentorship, and the hidden wonders of the natural world. Fans eagerly await news of a potential second season, eager to see where Ruri’s mineralogical adventures will lead her next.
