Gem Mineral Fossil Show this weekend

by Rustie Dimitriadis
Tribune, Dispatch, Sentinel, March 30 - April 1, 2006

The Buffalo Geological Society announces the natural science education event of the year. The BGS, an affiliate of the Buffalo Museum of Science, is holding its 38th annual Gem Mineral Fossil Show, April 1-2, at the Agri-Center on the Erie County Fairgrounds, 5600 McKinley Parkway in Hamburg.

Exhibits will include mastodons, dinosaurs, giant prehistoric sharks, a fool’s gold display to test your knowledge and private collections of gems, minerals and fossils from around the world.

Local artisans will give hands-on demonstrations of lapidary arts, fossil preparation, sphere making, stone carving and glass blowing. In addition, world-class soapstone carver Sandy Cline will be displaying her artistry at the show.

Another attraction at the show is the famous “mini mine,” where scientists of tomorrow can experience the excitement of the hunt. Children will get to identify and take home a treasure trove of minerals and fossils that they themselves find. They can also visit Grandpa’s Corner, where they will learn bead-stringing, sand art, and more.

The Gem Mineral Fossil Show is a great place to shop for gifts from more than 25 commercial dealers in gems, jewelry, minerals, lapidary and fossils.

Show hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Children 12 and under are free, and there is no charge for parking.