Rock hounds are gathering all kinds of loose stones when they meet in Lake Country this weekend for the 10th annual Gem, Mineral, and Fossil show and sale.
Hosted by the Vernon Lapidary and Mineral Club and the 1120 Rock Club, the show takes place at the Winfield Memorial Hall Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“The show theme this year is Canada rocks. If you’re curious about what good rocks can be found in the neighbourhood, stop by and check out our displays,” said Linda Zepic, with the Vernon club. “We are also very pleased to be hosting the Gem and Mineral Federation of Canada (GMFC) annual general meeting at this time.”
A not-for-profit organization comprising members (AKA crazy rock hounds) from all over Canada, the GMFC is focused primarily on public education.
In addition to printing educational materials for school children and putting on educational displays, the GMFC offers a number of scholarships each year. These are available to the children and grandchildren of anyone who has been a member in good standing of any registered lapidary club in Canada for six years or more.
Vendors at the Lake Country show will offer a wide range of materials, from rough rocks to crystals to beads to fossils and mineral specimens to jewelry created with metals and precious and semi-precious stones, and, of course, loose stones and findings for do-it-yourself jewellers, said Zepic.
“Many local dealers will be participating, along with dealers from Calgary, the Lower Mainland and Ontario,” she said. “There will also be a kids’ corner, with activities for the little ones, and a silent auction to raise scholarship funds.”
Show admission is $4 for adults and $2 for children six-to-12. Children under six are free with an adult.
The Winfield Memorial Hall is located at 10130 Bottom Wood Lake Rd. (one block east of Highway 97 at Berry Road). For more information, visit okanagangemshow.rocks/