MARIPOSA — If you’re a rock hound or someone who loves jewels, prepare to be dazzled at the Mariposa Mineral & Gem Show this Saturday and Sunday, Apr. 13 – 14 at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds. The location is also the site of the State Mining and Mineral Museum, located about two miles south of Mariposa on Highway 49.
This family-friendly event lets guests enjoy the museum, check out the mine tunnel, explore rocks and minerals at the touch table and see a gold camp with real gold miners, along with a wide array of gemstone jewelry and rough mineral and rock specimens.
From benitoite to topaz, nearly all the gems and minerals an expert can name are featured in the annual show which includes jewelry, exhibits, speakers, demonstrations, and lots of gold.
In addition to the beautiful crystals and gemstones on display in vendor booths and in the Museum’s extensive collection, visitors can look forward to rock cutting, gold panning, kids’ activities, food, and a raffle.
Members of the Mariposa Gem & Mineral Club will be cutting geodes throughout the show to see what interesting surprises they can find inside, and the Club will run a raffle at their booth in Sequoia Hall.
Admission to the festivities is still just $3 and kids get in free. Parking is also free, and your paid admission to the Gem & Mineral Show covers museum admission as well.
On Saturday hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday hours are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Call the Museum at (209) 742-7625, follow on Facebook or visit the website.