This family-friendly show invites attendees to experience the world of gems, minerals, and fossils in a unique and interactive setting.
The Greater Detroit Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show is back for its 78th year, hosted by the Michigan Mineralogical Society, with presenting sponsor Cranbrook Institute of Science. The show will attract collectors, families, and school groups from all over the Midwest, featuring gem and mineral collections worldwide. It will be held Oct. 13-15, 2023, at Macomb Community College South Campus/Expo Center at 14500 E. 12 Mile Road, Warren, Mich.
Gem and healing crystal enthusiasts can observe specimens from the nationally recognized A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum, Cranbrook Institute of Science, Royal Ontario Museum, and more, and exhibits from some of the top mineral collectors in the country.
“All of our exhibitors, speakers, and collectors are passionate about sharing their knowledge with show attendees so they not only have a fun and entertaining time but are also able to walk away with a deeper understanding of gems and minerals,” said Dave Lurie, Michigan Mineralogical Society president. “We are thrilled to be back for our 78th year, and this year’s show features a ton of new hands-on and engaging activities that families of all ages will enjoy.”
Take a look at this: The first 200 attendees each day receive a FREE fluorite crystal!
Mineral Fluorescence Booth: Observe minerals under ultraviolet lights and watch them glow red, green, blue, and yellow. Activity is free with admission.
Himalayan Salt Lamps are sold directly from dealers.
Crystals of all sizes – look for beautiful amethyst cathedrals direct from Brazil, citrine and rose quartz, and a host of other semi-precious minerals. Buy DIRECT from dealers.
And back by popular demand, children can pan for real gold specks and take home what they find and will have the opportunity to hunt and dig for fossils. Panning for gold is free with admission, and there is an additional fee to dig for fossils. Adults can bid on minerals in the silent auction on Oct 14th and 15th.
The A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum and Cranbrook Institute of Science have donated all specimens in the auction.
Additionally, this year’s show will feature a profound lineup of speakers, including:
- Donald Baumgartner: Fossil dealer and scientist will share his knowledge on the science and movie magic that went into the making of Jurassic Park.
- Paul Bandes on his new book – Michigan Rocks!
- Erik Rintamaki: Hear from this Upper Peninsula resident about how he made the glowing rocks, Yooperlites, famous on the shores of Lake Superior.
In honor of the 78th Show, prizes will be given away every hour!
The Show hours are:
Friday, Oct. 13, from 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
and Sunday, Oct. 15, from 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased online in advance beginning Aug. 1 at: https://www.michmin.org/book-tickets-online. Ticket prices if purchased at the door: Adults $9, individuals 62+ $5, children ages 5-12 $4, uniformed scouts $3, and military with ID get in free. Parking is free.
For more information, please visit https://www.michmin.org/show-info or contact Dave Lurie at dlurie2001@comcast.net.
