October 2019 Program Information
October 2019 Program
Thomas Hale, a graduate of VT, is organizing a state initiative called the Virginia Mineral Project (VMP) in cooperation with George Mason University, Virginia mineral clubs, and people who have professional ties with collecting minerals, as well as amateur collectors.
The impetus of the project is to “collect, preserve, and educate”.
The last major publication about VA minerals was in 1990 (Mineralogy of Virginia by R.V. Dietrich). Previous publications have included only black & white photos and/or sketches of minerals.
There are over 400 known varieties of minerals in VA and many of them have only been recently discovered so there is much information to be updated. Thomas envisions a new publication with colorful modern photographs and in-depth details about the minerals & their locations.
Beryl Crystals
Photo: Virginia Mineral Project
Thomas is traveling around VA promoting this project and has a Facebook page where people can share information or just browse. It is here: “Virginia Mineral Project”
He is especially interested in logging information about minerals that were collected from mines that are now closed – he is compiling photos of these, as well as stories about people who have been to these mines to preserve their history.
He mentioned that as collectors we must be respectful of the land owners, and to never collect on private land without permission.
Thomas is very excited and is willing to dedicate many hours to the VMP. If anyone has information to share – stories, photos, or even collections – please email him at virginiamineralproject@gmail.com.
Turquoise crystal
Photo: Virginia Mineral Project
A sideline of this project is “ROCKS”:
• Recognition – it is important to recognize the preservation of stories and information about minerals.
• Outreach – engage others, especially youth and individuals.
• Communication – share information with clubs and community.
• Knowledge – what do I know, or what information do I have to share.
• Sharing – providing photos, stories and collections with others.
We’d like to thank Thomas for his enthusiasm and for working on this project so that we and future generations can gain an appreciation of what Virginia has to offer to the wonderful world of minerals!