The latest Inside the Image feature illustrates a specific application of CrystalMaker: understanding the highly-complex crystal structure of the mineral faujasite. Faujasite has a framework silicate structure, with an interconnecting network of cages and channels, providing miniature "reaction chambers" in which organic molecules can be brought together. The structure also provides service as a micro-porous material, the tiny channels acting as the holes in a sieve.

CrystalMaker is ideal for understanding the structures of complex, inorganic materials. The program's elegant interface provides easy access to powerful visualization features, such as depth fading, the ability to quickly isolate crystal or molecular groups, and customize model display settings so as to "see the wood for the trees".

Whilst other programs can provide pretty pictures, CrystalMaker goes beyond this, to allow the user unprecedented ability to isolate groups of atoms via atom type or selection tools, as well as instant switching between different representations including powerful polyhedral model display.

Originally launched as a Mac program, back in 1994, CrystalMaker continues to be at the forefront of Mac development. It was the first program of its kind to be released for PowerPC, the first to run on Mac OS X and the first to run natively on the new Intel-based Macs.