Bring the entire family to the 28th Annual Rock & Gem Show, happening in the Estrella Building at the Paso Robles Event Center on Saturday and Sunday, April 13 and 14 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hosted by the Santa Lucia Rockhounds, the 2019 theme — “World of Crystals” — celebrates, reveals, and focuses on crystals while also showcasing a variety of minerals, rocks, activities, and demonstrations.
“Crystals are just so cool, and represent different things for different people,” Show Chairman Kim Noyes said. “Our show will have elemental aspects, minerals, rocks, and more in many forms and in all shapes and sizes from jewelry stones to home décor.”
Admission to the event is just $5 for adults and is free for children under 16 and active military members. Attendees of all ages are invited to enjoy the exhibits and interact with 35-plus dealers and demonstrators featuring rocks, minerals, fossils, artisan crafted jewelry, and lapidary materials.
This year’s activities and demonstrations include: Rock Cutting and Polishing; Diamond Testing; Sphere Making; Faceting; Gold Panning; Geode-cracking and, a favorite from last year, Rock Stacking. New for 2019, a Fluorescent Mineral Display and Rock Painting.
“This is a hands-on show by design and we try to engage people in as many ways as possible,” Noyes said. “There is something for all ages, but there is a strong focus on activities and displays for kids because they are our future and we want to pass on our knowledge to them.”
Kids will receive a free gift just for attending and are encouraged to participate in the always-popular Kid’s Treasure Hunt. The “Rock Doc” returns, so be sure to bring in those mysterious rocks and minerals and finally have them identified.
Awards will also be handed out for Best of Show, President’s Choice, and People’s Choice. In addition, proceeds from the annual fundraising drawing help ensure the continuation of kids’ programming and the Santa Lucia Rockhounds’ yearly college scholarship to local high school students pursuing studies in Earth sciences.
“We keep expanding and evolving so, for those who have attended our shows in the past, come out and experience new exhibits, activities, and demonstrations,” Noyes said.
“If you’ve never attended our Rock & Gem Show, please come out and see what we’re all about.”