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A Gem of A Show in Hickory

Catawba Valley Gem and Mineral Club Show is March 22-23, 2019

By Iris Hartness, Publisher of Hickory - W Piedmont Macaroni Kid March 21, 2019


This weekend, you are invited to the 49th Annual Unifour Gem and Mineral Club Show at the Hickory Metro Convention Center.  Last year, my family was able to attend this great event.  Along with dealers offering mineral specimens, jewelry, and gemstones, there were many opportunities for kids to get a close look at several different fossils and gems. The dealers were more than happy to answer our questions, and there were a few items that the kids were invited to handle. In the Children’s Corner, there were many hands-on exhibits where the kids could truly explore.  Since we had been studying geology, it was a perfect time to apply some new found knowledge. We also noted that chaperoned scout groups in uniform were invited to attend for free to work on Geology or Mining Merit Badges. 

My kids enjoyed two features of the show in particular: the mini-mine and a fantastic fossil display.  The mini mine is manned by members of the Catawba Valley Gem and Mineral Club.  After sifting out some special gems to take home, the club members were able to help the kids identify their findings.  Finally, the kids enjoyed fossils that were on display, gathered by a couple whose hobby and passion was discovering fossils across the Southeast.  They were able to share many interesting facts about their journeys and even gave the kids a tiny fossil to take home.  This year’s show theme is “Gems, Minerals & Fossils: From the Mountains to the Ocean.” There are sure to be many great items to discover with your family.  Check out the Catawba Valley Gem and Mineral Club Show and Sale on March 22-24, 2019. On Friday and Saturday, it is open from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. On Sunday, it will be open 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.  A 3-day adults pass is $5, and children ages 12 and under are admitted for free. The show is located at the Hickory Convention Center (1960 13th Ave Dr SE, Hickory, NC 28602). 

Find out more information about the show on our Event Calendar!

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