Mariposa’s Gem and Mineral Show will rock the fairgrounds April 13-14

The 29th annual Mariposa Gem and Mineral Show will be held at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds on April 13 and 14 featuring dozens of vendors and activities.

Meredith Meehan, past president of the Mariposa Gem and Mineral Club and show chairperson, said, “We’re planning on around 40 vendors right now, but that is a moving target. There will be a wide selection of gems, minerals, fossils, and jewelry. The jewelry that’s available will range from inexpensive up to really nice pieces, and we believe there will also be two gold dealers on hand.”

Dealers from far and wide gather to share their knowledge and stock of minerals and demonstrations of lapidary techniques at this event.

The show will be held in both Building A and B at the fairgrounds, and parking is free. There is a $3 admission fee and kids under 14 are free. The event is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.

“We usually have 1,400 to 1,500 people attend from all over central California and some from farther away,” Meehan explained.

One of the highlights of the show will be geode cutting, plus there will be a raffle and silent auction during the two-day show. “There will also be a rock-around-the-clock game for the kids where they can win prizes. We’re hoping to get youngsters interested in rocks, and keep them interested,” Meehan added.

At least two food vendors, L&J Tacos and Lemon Drop, will be on hand.

“All our vendors are more than happy to offer details and answer questions,” Meehan said. The local club is a member of the California Federation of Mineralogical Societies.

The California State Mining and Mineral Museum, also located at the fairgrounds, will be open during the event, but there is an admission charge.

For complete details, visit mariposagemclub.org.