| Site | Description |
|---|---|
| Geology365 |
Geology365.com is a versatile platform designed for mineral, fossil, and gem enthusiasts, as well as for clubs dedicated to these interests. The platform offers robust features for both individual collectors and clubs, aiming to simplify collection management and enhance community engagement. For individual collectors, Geology365.com provides tools to catalog and manage collections, create and print custom labels, and generate QR codes for specimens. These features help maintain detailed records and provenance of each item, adding value to the collection. Users can choose to keep their collections private or share them publicly through unique URLs generated by the platform. For clubs, Geology365.com offers comprehensive management solutions, including membership tracking, dues management, event scheduling, and website hosting. Clubs can create and maintain a professional online presence without the need for extensive technical expertise. The platform also supports article creation and a presenter database, enhancing the educational aspect of club activities. Overall, Geology365.com is a valuable resource for anyone involved in mineral, fossil, and gem collecting, providing tools to streamline management and foster community connections. |
| American Federation of Mineralogical societies (AFMS) | The American Federation of Mineralogical Societies (AFMS) is a non-profit educational organization founded in 1947. It consists of seven regional federations across the United States, all dedicated to promoting interest and education in earth sciences, particularly geology, mineralogy, paleontology, and lapidary arts. The AFMS facilitates coordination among various rock, gem, and mineral societies, encouraging greater international goodwill and fellowship through shared interests and activities. The AFMS offers numerous resources, including field trips, lapidary workshops, and educational activities for all ages. Clubs affiliated with the AFMS adhere to a code of ethics and can obtain liability insurance through their regional federations, providing access to field trip locations that might otherwise be inaccessible. |
| American Museum of Natural History Planetary and Earth Sciences | The Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) Department at the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) is a hub of scientific research and education focused on the physical sciences. The department's work encompasses a wide range of topics, including experimental petrology, crystallography, and meteorite studies. Their collections feature extensive samples of meteorites, minerals, and gems, offering valuable insights into Earth's processes and the history of our solar system. The department is also actively involved in public education through exhibits and programs that bring the wonders of Earth and planetary sciences to a broader audience. |
| Bob’s Rock Shop | Rockhounds.com is a comprehensive resource for rock and mineral enthusiasts. The site offers valuable information on finding, identifying, and tumbling rocks, making it an excellent place for both beginners and experienced rockhounds. Visitors can explore various sections that include state-specific guides for rockhounding locations, tips for using lapidary equipment, and advice on the best tools and gear for the hobby. The site also features educational articles, making it a go-to destination for anyone looking to deepen their knowledge and enjoy the rockhounding hobby to the fullest |
| Calvert Marine Museum Fossil Club (Solomons Island, MD) (CFFMC) | The Calvert Marine Museum Fossil Club, based in Solomons, Maryland, offers enthusiasts an engaging platform to expand their knowledge of Miocene fossils and participate in unique field trip opportunities. The club meets quarterly, featuring discussions on fossil-related topics and updates from the museum's paleontology staff on recent finds. These meetings are open to the public and often include a free lecture by a distinguished guest. Membership dues are $10 annually, and members must also be part of the Calvert Marine Museum. Benefits include access to "The Ecphora," the club's quarterly newsletter. |
| Cape Atlantic Rockhounds | The Cape Atlantic Rockhounds is a club dedicated to the interests of rock and mineral enthusiasts. Located in Mays Landing, New Jersey, the club meets on the first Thursday of each month from March to November. The meetings, held at 2641 Cologne Avenue, typically start at 7:30 PM. The club organizes annual shows in May and September. These events provide opportunities for members and the public to engage with vendors and participate in various activities related to gem, mineral, and fossil collecting. |
| Delaware Mineralogical Society (DMS) | The Delaware Mineralogical Society (DMS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and educating the public about mineralogy, paleontology, and the lapidary arts. Based in Wilmington, Delaware, DMS holds monthly meetings at the Delaware Museum of Nature and Science, featuring speakers and programs that support the society's goals. Members also benefit from various field trips to fossil and mineral localities, including exclusive sites not open to the public and special events at major museums like the Smithsonian and the Museum of Natural History. One of the highlights of DMS is its Annual Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show, held the first weekend of March. This event showcases a wide range of treasures from numerous dealers, offering something for every budget. The show includes educational exhibits, raffles, and activities for all ages, making it a fun and informative event for the entire family. |
| Delaware Valley Earth Science Society | The Delaware Valley Earth Science Society (DVESS) is a non-profit organization founded in 1956, based in Berlin, New Jersey. It promotes interests in mineralogy, paleontology, lapidary arts, archeology, and location preservation. The society is known for its annual SuperDigg event and holds monthly meetings on the second Wednesday of each month at the Waterford Township Senior Citizen Building. DVESS also advocates for the conservation of natural resources and the availability of collecting sites. |
| Delaware Valley Paleontological Society | The Delaware Valley Paleontological Society (DVPS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the study and appreciation of paleontology. Established in 1978, DVPS focuses on the collection, preservation, and dissemination of fossil information. The society meets monthly, typically at the Academy of Natural Sciences of Drexel University, providing a platform for members to engage with fossil enthusiasts, participate in field trips, and attend lectures by experts in the field. DVPS is also known for its annual Fossil Fair, which helps fund scholarships and grants for graduate students pursuing degrees in paleontology in the Delaware Valley region. |
| Derek Yoost’s NJ Marine Fossil website | The New Jersey Fossil Web Site, found at njfossils.net, is a rich resource for fossil enthusiasts focusing on fossil identification and collection in New Jersey. The site, maintained by amateur fossil collector Derek Yoost, provides detailed information and identification guides for fossils found in notable locations such as Big Brook and Shark River. These guides help collectors identify various fossils, including shark teeth, fish, reptiles, and mammals from different geological periods. Additionally, the website offers insights into the geology of these locations, enhancing the educational experience for hobbyists and researchers alike. |
| Diamond Dan Publications | Diamond Dan Publications specializes in educational materials and resources for mineral collectors, especially targeting young rockhounds. They offer a variety of publications, including activity books, educational guides, and the popular "Mineral of the Month" series, which provides in-depth information on different minerals. Their goal is to make learning about minerals fun and accessible for all ages, fostering a love for geology and mineralogy. |
| Eastern Federation of Mineralogical and Lapidary Sciences | The Eastern Federation of Mineralogical and Lapidary Societies (EFMLS) is an organization established in 1950 to promote a closer association of mineral societies dedicated to the study of geology, minerals, earth sciences, and the practice of the lapidary arts and related crafts in the eastern United States. The EFMLS started with three founding and seven charter societies and has now grown to approximately 115 affiliated societies, with around 9,200 members. The EFMLS is a member of the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies (AFMS), joining in 1952, and participates in various activities, including annual conventions, educational programs, and events like Wildacres, which offers workshops and guest speakers in a retreat setting. |
| Fluorescent Mineral Society | The Fluorescent Mineral Society (FMS) is an international organization dedicated to the study and appreciation of fluorescent minerals. Founded in 1971 and incorporated in 1993, the FMS was registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in 2018. The society is entirely volunteer-run and has nearly 400 members worldwide, including professional mineralogists, gemologists, and amateur collectors. FMS aims to share knowledge about fluorescent minerals through research, seminars, and publications. They organize local chapters that host collecting trips, display collections at gem and mineral shows, and facilitate discussions on the latest technology and findings in the field. The society also supports STEM education by incorporating fluorescent minerals into the curriculum to enhance scientific learning. Membership in FMS offers access to their bi-monthly magazine "UV Waves," the annual "FMS Journal," and various other resources. The society provides several membership categories, including basic, patron, and sustaining memberships, to support their mission and activities. |
| Frank Guggenheim Hall of Minerals | The Harry Frank Guggenheim Hall of Minerals at the American Museum of Natural History in New York is a remarkable exhibit showcasing an extensive collection of minerals and gems. This hall highlights the properties of minerals, the environments where they form, and systematic mineralogy. Visitors can explore impressive specimens, including a giant topaz from Brazil and a 4.5-ton block of azurite-malachite ore from Arizona. Additionally, the hall features educational exhibits on the chemical and physical properties of minerals, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in Earth sciences. |
| Franklin and Sterling Hill Mineral Information | The Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg, NJ, offers a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Once one of the world’s richest zinc ore deposits, the museum now provides guided tours of its historic mine, where visitors can explore the lamp room, shaft station, mine galleries, and the renowned fluorescent “Rainbow Tunnel”. In addition to mine tours, the museum features the Zobel Hall Museum and the Warren Museum of Fluorescence, which showcase an array of minerals and mining artifacts. For hands-on experiences, the museum offers mineral collecting on the Mine Run Dump, where enthusiasts can search for high-grade zinc ore and other fluorescent minerals |
| Franklin Mineral Museum | The Franklin Mineral Museum, located in Franklin, NJ, is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich mineralogical and geological history of the Franklin-Sterling Hill mining district. Known as “the greatest mineral locality on Earth,” the museum showcases an extensive collection of mineral specimens, including the famous local zinc ore minerals: willemite, franklinite, and zincite. Visitors can explore various exhibits such as the Fluorescent Minerals Room, the Fossil Room, and a life-size mine replica. The museum also hosts hands-on activities like gem panning and fossil digs, making it a great educational destination for all ages |
| Franklin-Ogdensburg Mineralogical Society (FOMS) | The Franklin-Ogdensburg Mineralogical Society (FOMS) is dedicated to promoting the study and appreciation of minerals and geology, specifically those found in the Franklin-Ogdensburg area of New Jersey. FOMS organizes various programs, field trips, and lectures to benefit the community and mineral enthusiasts. They meet regularly at the Franklin Mineral Museum and offer members access to events and publications like "The Picking Table." The society also emphasizes ethical collecting practices and aims to preserve mineral specimens for future generations. Membership is open to individuals and families, with meetings providing opportunities for education and fellowship among mineral collectors. |
| Friends of Mineralogy National Organization | The Friends of Mineralogy (FM) is a national organization founded in 1970, dedicated to promoting, supporting, and protecting the collection of mineral specimens. It operates through regional chapters across the United States and includes members such as collectors, museum curators, mineralogists, and earth science educators. FM is affiliated with notable organizations like Mindat.org, the Mineralogical Society of America, and the Mineralogical Association of Canada. The organization sponsors symposiums, awards, and educational exhibits at major gem and mineral shows, and offers memberships both through regional chapters and nationally. |
| Friends of Mineralogy PA Chapter- (Ron Sloto) | The Pennsylvania Chapter of the Friends of Mineralogy (FM-PA) is an organization dedicated to fostering a serious interest in minerals and related activities. It includes members such as mineral collectors, professional mineralogists, and curators of public and private collections. The chapter offers a range of activities, including field trips, symposiums, and educational programs, all aimed at promoting the study and appreciation of minerals. |
| Gem, Lapidary, Mineral Society of Montgomery County, MD (GLMSMC) | The Gem, Lapidary, and Mineral Society of Montgomery County, Maryland (GLMSMC) is a vibrant community dedicated to earth sciences, geology, mineralogy, paleontology, and lapidary arts. Established over fifty years ago, the society caters to a diverse membership, ranging from beginners to experienced enthusiasts, including families and juniors. GLMSMC hosts monthly meetings on the second Monday from September to June at the Rockville Senior Center, featuring guest speakers, educational programs, and show-and-tell sessions. The society is also known for its annual Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show, held in March, which includes exhibits, demonstrations, and activities for all ages. In addition to meetings and shows, GLMSMC offers field trips, educational outreach, and a library with an extensive collection of books and videos. The society's junior group, Future Rockhounds of America, engages younger members with activities and learning opportunities. |
| John Betts On-Line Mineral Museum | John Betts-Fine Minerals hosts an extensive online mineral museum, featuring a vast collection of mineral specimens from around the world. The website offers over 193,000 photographs illustrating more than 66,000 mineral specimens, making it a comprehensive resource for mineral enthusiasts and collectors. The virtual museum is designed to showcase the beauty and diversity of minerals, providing detailed images and information on each specimen. This site is a valuable resource for anyone interested in mineralogy, offering insights into the wide variety of minerals available globally. |
| Kids Love Rocks | Kids Love Rocks is a fantastic resource for young rock and mineral enthusiasts, their families, teachers, and hobbyists. The website offers a wealth of educational materials, including information on rocks, gemstones, and fossils. It provides fun and engaging activities such as panning kits, dig kits, and various educational books to spark the curiosity of young geologists. Additionally, Kids Love Rocks features an extensive Gemstone and Mineral Index, helping users identify and learn about different minerals and where they can be found. This site is an excellent starting point for building or expanding a rock collection and fostering a lifelong interest in geology. |
| Mindat.org | Mindat.org is the world's largest online database of minerals, mineral photos, and mineral localities. It serves as a comprehensive resource for professional mineralogists, geologists, and amateur mineral collectors. The platform offers detailed mineral descriptions, locality information, photographs, and scientific articles. Created as a community-editable website, it supports the global mineralogical community by providing open access to a vast array of mineralogical data. |
| Mineral and Gemstone Kingdom | Minerals.net, also known as The Mineral and Gemstone Kingdom, is a comprehensive online resource for anyone interested in minerals, gemstones, and jewelry. The site offers detailed information and high-quality photographs of a vast array of minerals and gemstones. Users can explore various sections such as mineral and gemstone details, image galleries, a news blog, and a glossary of terms. Minerals.net aims to serve as an educational guide, providing in-depth knowledge about the composition, properties, and notable localities of different minerals and gemstones. It's an invaluable resource for both amateur collectors and serious enthusiasts looking to expand their understanding of mineralogy. |
| Morris Museum | The Morris Museum, located in Morristown, NJ, is one of New Jersey's oldest and most prestigious cultural institutions. It offers a wide array of programs in arts, science, history, and more. The museum is housed in the Georgian-style Frelinghuysen mansion and features both permanent and changing exhibitions. A highlight is the Murtogh D. Guinness Collection of Mechanical Musical Instruments and Automata, which includes over 750 pieces and provides interactive, hands-on experiences for visitors of all ages. The museum also hosts live demonstrations of these collection pieces daily. |
| National Limestone Plaque | The Friends of Mineralogy - NJ (FMNJ) commemorated Eric Stahl of National Limestone Quarries with a plaque of appreciation. This gesture recognized his decade-long hospitality, allowing the society to collect minerals at the Middleburg and Mt. Pleasant Mills Quarries. Eric has also helped by providing mechanical assistance and safety briefings at the start of each collection day. The plaque presentation was a formal acknowledgment of his support and the valuable experiences provided to the mineralogical community. |
| NJ Earth Science Association | The New Jersey Society of Enrolled Agents (NJSEA) is an organization dedicated to supporting enrolled agents, who are federally-licensed tax professionals with the authority to represent taxpayers before the IRS. The NJSEA offers numerous resources for both members and the public, including educational events, newsletters, mentoring programs, and more. They focus on providing continuous education to ensure their members stay updated on tax laws and best practices. Members can benefit from networking opportunities, professional discounts, and access to exclusive content and events designed to enhance their careers and knowledge base. |
| Orange County Mineral Society (OCMS) | The Orange County Mineral Society, established in 1953 in Orange County, New York, is dedicated to promoting interests in earth sciences, including geology, mineralogy, paleontology, archaeology, and the lapidary arts. The Society organizes monthly meetings with guest speakers, educational programs, and hands-on activities for both adults and children. Membership benefits include participation in field trips, access to a monthly newsletter called "Shale Mail," and entry to their annual Rock and Mineral Show held at Museum Village in Monroe, NY. Additionally, the Society hosts an annual fall picnic and a holiday party with a mineral Chinese auction. Membership fees are $12 for individuals and $15 for families, which also provide necessary insurance for field trips. |
| Pennsylvania Earth Sciences Association | Mineralfest is a biannual mineral, fossil, and gem show sponsored by the Pennsylvania Earth Sciences Association (PESA). Held at the Macungie Memorial Park in Macungie, Pennsylvania, this event features over one hundred tables loaded with minerals, fossils, gemstones, jewelry, crystals, and geodes from around the world. The show includes both indoor and outdoor vendors, with a special darkroom area for fluorescent mineral displays. Mineralfest emphasizes mineral specimens, which make up about 65 to 75 percent of the displayed material, but it also includes a wide range of fossils, gemstones, and jewelry. The event attracts a diverse group of dealers, from high-end specimen sellers to collectors looking to downsize their collections. The show is designed to be family-friendly, with free admission and plenty of parking, ensuring an enjoyable experience for attendees of all ages. |
| Philadelphia Mineral Society | The Philadelphia Mineralogical Society (PMS) is dedicated to promoting the study and collection of minerals, fossils, and other geologic materials. As the second oldest mineral society in the United States, PMS offers monthly meetings, educational programs, and field trips. Their activities include lectures, silent auctions, and social events, making it a vibrant community for enthusiasts of all ages. The society also hosts two major shows each year, the Spring Mineral Treasures and Fossil Fair, and the Fall Outdoor Mineral Treasures show, featuring vendors, kid-friendly activities, and educational displays. |
| Rock and Gem Magazine | Rock & Gem Magazine is an excellent resource for enthusiasts of rockhounding, lapidary, and mineralogy. The magazine offers a wealth of information, including expert insights on mineral science, lapidary techniques, and field trip destinations. Regular features include in-depth examinations of minerals and gem materials, as well as short, engaging articles and projects for kids. Celebrating over 50 years, Rock & Gem also hosts monthly contests, showcases club profiles, and revisits timeless articles from their archives. |
| Rocks and Minerals Magazine | The Rutgers Geology Museum is a free educational facility offering a variety of exhibits, collections, public lectures, tours, and virtual programs. Its mission is to enhance visitors' understanding of the natural world through unique learning experiences. The museum hosts events and provides resources to engage the community, including accessible options for all visitors. |
| Rutgers Geology Museum | |
| Sterling Hill Mining Museum | The Sterling Hill Mining Museum is a premier destination for learning about mining and minerals. Located in New Jersey, it offers tours of the historic zinc mine, exhibits on geology, mining history, and fluorescent minerals. The museum provides educational programs and hands-on activities suitable for all ages, making it a valuable resource for both casual visitors and serious enthusiasts. |
| The Lapidary Journal | The Lapidary Journal provides a wealth of information on gems, beads, jewelry arts, and minerals. It offers articles, guides, and tutorials for enthusiasts and professionals interested in lapidary arts. The site features detailed instructions on crafting various items, insights into different materials, and the latest trends in the field. It serves as a comprehensive resource for those passionate about the intricate and creative world of gemstone and mineral art. |
| The Mineral Forum | The Mineral Forum is an online community for mineral enthusiasts to discuss and share information about minerals, geology, and related topics. Members can participate in discussions, ask questions, share photos of mineral specimens, and stay updated on mineral shows and events. It's a valuable resource for both amateur collectors and professional geologists. |
| The Mineralogical Record | The Mineralogical Record is a comprehensive resource for mineral enthusiasts, offering an extensive collection of articles, journals, and books on mineralogy. The site includes digital and print issues, educational resources, and features on fine minerals and mining collectibles. It is a valuable tool for researchers, collectors, and anyone interested in the field of mineralogy. |
| The Vug | They serve as a valuable resource for rock hounds, mineral collectors, geologists, hobbyists, and anyone with a passion for minerals. With a longstanding presence in the mineral community, their mission is to provide both novices and experts with opportunities to learn, discover mineral shows, connect with clubs, and find sellers of mineral-related items. |