Welcome!

The Tar Heel Gem and Mineral Club was formed in 1974 as a nonprofit educational organization for people who enjoy the lapidary arts, earth sciences, and related subjects. The main objectives of the club are to investigate, preserve, and share knowledge of rocks, minerals, and precious stones, and to promote interest in mineralogy, paleontology, earth sciences, and lapidary techniques, among club members and among the general public. The club pursues these goals through publications, meetings, lectures, field trips, exhibits, demonstrations, and other activities. There is a diverse assortment of interests among the members, who include people of all ages. Levels of involvement and knowledge range from beginners with a budding interest in the hobby to experts who have explored the field for decades. Some members have won awards for their lapidary talents. Others have extensive collections of minerals, crystals, and fossils. Many simply enjoy the camaraderie and the field trips. The only prerequisite for membership is an interest in the club's objectives. This website provides complete information about the club's activities. Enjoy your visit!

panning for gold

septarian nodule