The Pinal Gem and Mineral Society
and the Pinal Geology and Mineral Museum
Arizona has a unique and fantastic geologic history. That history is told through the rocks, gems and mineral deposits from all over the state.
Many people have no idea of the richness that lies beneath their feet.
To bring that geologic history and the story of the earth in Arizona to life, we dedicate the Pinal Geology and Mineral Museum.
Created and maintained by the Pinal Gem and Mineral Society under the guidance of geologist Dr. Ray Grant, the museum tells the story of the Earth, with a focus on Arizona by with a worldwide scope, through displays and activities relating to geology, paleontology, and mineralogy.
The first meeting of the Pinal Gem and Mineral Society was held at the Artisan Village of Coolidge on December 3, 2014. The location for the new club was chosen because a lapidary shop and lapidary school were being started at the Artisan Village. The availability of the lapidary shop for club members made this a good location. Those facilities are now closed, but we're still happy to be here.
Membership in the Society is open to anyone. Though much of our membership lives in the Coolidge, Florence, and San Tan Valley. The club has met monthly since 2014 except during the summer months.
In April 2015 it was decided that a Geology and Mineral Museum would be a good addition to the Artisan Village. Donations from the Flagg Mineral Foundation of an Arizona Mineral Collection and a fluorescent exhibit, the loan of the Wicklund collection by David Scott, along with hard work by Gem and Mineral Society members the museum was open on a very limited basis in June 2015.
Since then we've grown and expanded.
We have expanded our Arizona mineral displays, and now feature paleontology as well - including our Allosaurus and Dilophosaurus models.
During the pandemic, begining in autumn 2020 we have had monthy online presentations during the school year (September-May). We hope to resume in-person meetings in September 2022, and then posting those presentations online as well.
Starting in 2022 we opened the museum with weekly hours year-round, and continuing growing displays, including activities for kids.
