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A stalactite is a form that can be found on the ceiling of a cave. When a drop of water flows down the stalactite, the water evaporates and leaves a mineral deposit of calcite. This slowly increases the length and thickness of the stalactite.
The corresponding formation on the floor underneath a stalactite is known as a stalagmite. Given enough time, these formations can meet. The results are known as columns.
Demonstration of drip stone formation in a lab.
Shark tooth stalactites.
Calthemite soda straw stalactites under concrete building
Image showing the six most common speleothems with labels. Enlarge to view labels.
Concrete stalactites.
Stalactites at the Puerto Princesa Underground River, Palawan, Philippines.
Stalactite in Doolin Cave, Ireland measuring 20 ft (6.54m) long.
Mineralized water drop forming at bottom of stalactites.
Stalactites of the type called "soda straws" from the Choranche caves in the Vercors, France
A caver standing beside the column in Crackpot Cave
Splash stalactites
Tubular lava stalactites
A tubular lava helictite
