Friends of Mineralogy
New Jersey
Friends of Mineralogy NJ Chapter

A Geology Club for All

Regarless of Your Knowledge, from Newbie to Professional Geologist, You are Welcome

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About

Who we are

“Friends of Mineralogy of New Jersey is the NJ Chapter of the national Friends of Mineralogy organization whose objective is to promote, support, protect, and expand the collecting of mineral specimens, while furthering the recognition of the scientific, economic, and aesthetic value of minerals and mineral collecting.”

Club Meetings

Monthly meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month at 7pm at 37 Vanderburg in Marlboro.

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Field Trips

Field trips are for club members only. We go on several trips a year in surrounding states. Be sure to join so you don't miss out

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Rock Shows

There are a number of rock shows in the area. Check back regularly to stay up to date with upcoming shows

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From the club

Recent articles

Looking back

Past events

Nov 10, 2026

Sphalerite: The Colorful Fluorescing and Critical Mineral

Discover the fascinating world of fluorescent sphalerite in this presentation exploring its mineral properties, importance in everyday life, and extraordinary colors and patterns under ultraviolet light.

We’ll explore the unique geology and history of several localities known for world-class fluorescent sphalerite specimens. Along the way, we’ll examine the stunning variety of fluorescence these minerals display, from striking colors to intricate patterns.

This updated presentation includes expanded information and new slides featuring additional sphalerite varieties and locations. Whether you’re a longtime fluorescent mineral collector or new to the hobby, join us for a closer look at this remarkable mineral.

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Nov 7, 2026

Hewitt Gem Mine

Join us for a day of collecting at the Hewitt Gem Mine in Haddam, Connecticut. This privately owned fee-dig site is known for a variety of pegmatite minerals, including beryl, tourmaline, garnet, quartz, feldspar, mica, torbernite, fluorite, and more.

Meetup

Hewitt Gem Mine Parking Area
202 Turkey Hill Road
Haddam, CT 06424

Meet at 8:40 AM SHARP

The trip will begin no later than 15 minutes after the meetup time. Look for a small roadside sign marked “HEWITT.”

Collecting Hours: 9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Attendance & Age Requirements

Limited to 35 people maximum. Groups of 2–3 people are preferred.

Minimum age: 8 years old
All attendees age 17 and under must remain under full parental supervision.

Fees

Standard Dig: $30 per person
With Power Tools/Drills: $40 per person
Children age 10 and under: FREE

A cooked lunch will be available for a requested $10 per person contribution. Please bring a separate $10 bill for lunch.

What to Bring

Bring plenty of water, food and drinks, along with your collecting gear. Recommended equipment includes:

  • Rock hammer and chisels
  • Sledgehammer
  • Pry bars
  • Shovel
  • Rock pick
  • Buckets
  • Newspaper/wrapping material
  • Backpack
  • Jackhammer or saw, if desired

LONG PANTS REQUIRED — NO SHORTS

Safety

Proper safety gear is required on all trips, including safety glasses, sturdy footwear and gloves.

Hard hats are not required but are strongly recommended for anyone using equipment such as jackhammers or saws.

Additional Information

There is plenty of parking at the site, so carpooling is not necessary.

The property is now under new ownership, and the new owners are continuing to allow clubs to visit and collect.

All attendees are required to sign a Hold Harmless Agreement.

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