A stalactite is a mineral formation that hangs from the ceilings of caves, created by the slow dripping of mineral-rich water. As the water drips, it leaves behind tiny deposits of minerals, primarily calcium carbonate, which accumulate over time. This process can take thousands of years, resulting in the formation of these icicle-like structures. Stalactites are often found in limestone caves, where the conditions are ideal for their growth. They are part of a larger group of formations known as speleothems, which also includes stalagmites that grow upward from the cave floor. Together, these formations create stunning underground landscapes.