Our Club

Member of the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies and the South Central Federation of Mineralogical Societies

Mission

The goals of the Ark-La-Tex Gem and Mineral Society are to create and stimulate interest in the study of gems, minerals, fossils, beading, geology and the lapidary arts. The organization sponsors gem, mineral and fossil hunting field trips, lectures on the lapidary arts, demonstrations and workshops for the membership and community.

Community

The club hosts the annual gem and mineral show with special exhibits, demonstrations and dealers with fine jewels, gems, minerals, fossils, etc. to be purchased.

The club is able to provide speakers and demonstrations on the earth sciences and lapidary arts for local schools, scout troops and other organizations upon request.

History

The Ark-La-Tex Gem and Mineral Society was officially incorporated in Louisiana as a 501C3 non-profit educational organization in April 1971 by a small group of 6 members interested in the lapidary arts. Our members include a dedicated group of lapidarists with strong yet varied interests in stone and gem cutting, faceting, flint knapping (making tools, arrowheads, etc. from rocks), gem and mineral hunting (rock-hounding), and fossil hunting.