Fundy Geological Museum Hosts Gem and Mineral Show

Rocks, fossils, minerals, and precious and semi-precious stones from around the world will be featured at the 39th annual Nova Scotia Gem and Mineral Show in Parrsboro. Sponsored by the Fundy Geological Museum, the show is the only event of its kind in Eastern Canada.

Formerly known as the Rockhound Round-Up, the Gem and Mineral Show, will be held at the Lion's Arena from Friday, Aug. 20 to Sunday, Aug. 22. The show attracts participants from across Canada and the United States. Several dealers, including World Wide Minerals and Rock of Ages, have been attending the show for more than 25 years.

The displays and material for sale will include rocks, fossils, minerals, precious and semi-precious stones, jewelry made from precious and semi-precious stones, as well as items carved from agate and marble, amethyst and other stones. Several dealers will also have beads, beading supplies and jewelry for sale.

"The mineral and fossil treasures found along the shores of the Bay of Fundy have attracted many visitors to this region," said Ken Adams, director of the Fundy Geological Museum. "More than one visitor's trip to this show has resulted in a lifelong interest in these natural resources. This includes some of the geologists who will be attending the show, as well as several of the dealers and exhibitors who continue to return each year."

Visitors can take part in workshops and demonstrations of rock cutting, polishing agate, faceting, silver and gold wire wrapping and jewelry making. While some dealers will be demonstrating at their tables, a special area has also been set aside for workshops.

Information about the geology of Nova Scotia will be available through exhibits, guided walks and presentations. The Atlantic Geoscience Society, the Nova Scotia Prospectors Association and several other geological museums will also take part in the show.

Children will have an opportunity to learn more about the region's rocks, fossils and minerals. They can visit the activity and learning centre to make their own jewelry or a mineral specimen card, and to find out how they may already be using minerals and rocks each day.

For more information on the show, visit the museum's website at http://museum.gov.ns.ca/fgm/mineralgem/show.html .