The Lethbridge Gem and Mineral Show is on now until Sunday at the Agri-food Hub and Trade Centre. Its emphasis in 2024 is old private collections and old mine sites, that have long since closed in the United States and Canada.
“This year encompasses a wider variety of gems and minerals we’ve ever had before,” says show co-owner Chris Robak.
Robak says the show features minerals from the Tanco Mine in Manitoba, “that shut down in the mid-1980s” and minerals from Bisbee, Arizona, “which is a now a tourist attraction.”
“We’ve got a lot of rarities this year, that’s for sure,” adds Robak.
Historically, the event started in Chris’ basement and grew into the show it is today.
“It started off as a way to bridge our income as a small business owner and it grew into this huge show,” says Robak.
According to Robak, this year, the event has 375 tables and 15 exhibitors. “It’s a thing to see.”
“It’s definitely hands-on and interactive. We all love rocks. We are all like-minded when it comes to this industry. We’re all here to answer questions and let people look, touch and experience what Mother Nature has to offer,” says Robak.
Robak adds the show also features beads, jewelry, gemstones and mineral specimens. “Anything related to the gem and mineral industry you’ll find here at the show.”
Hours for the show are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.