Glass Gem Corn
Glass Gem Corn is one of the most astounding varieties in the plant kingdom — an heirloom flint corn developed by Cherokee farmer Carl Barnes that produces small, translucent kernels in an impossible array of jewel tones: ruby, amethyst, sapphire, turquoise, gold, and pearl, each ear a unique mosaic of color. Though too hard for fresh eating, the dried kernels grind into a richly flavored, colorful cornmeal and pop into a distinctively nutty popcorn. It is simultaneously a vegetable and a work of art.