Fossil, Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show at Prairie State College Oct. 17 and 18 [09/04/2015]

The Prairie State College (PSC) Natural Science Department is hosting the South Suburban Earth Science Club Fossil, Gem, Mineral, and Jewelry Show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 17 and 18, in the Prairie Center Gym on PSC’s main campus at 202 S. Halsted St. in Chicago Heights.

The event is co-sponsored by the South Suburban Earth Science Club (SSESC).

The annual show is an opportunity for gem and fossil enthusiasts to meet the experts, get a close look at the latest finds, learn about the geological history of the area, and purchase rare gems, fossils and artifacts. Exhibits will include fossils from Mazon Creek and Thornton Quarry, minerals, jewelry, lapidary, crystals, artifacts and Illinois meteorites. Additionally, Joel Knapper, NASA ambassador, will make a special presentation about Pluto on Sunday, Oct. 18.

“I am always amazed at the spectacular fossils and mineral specimens that are available at this show - everything from dinosaur bone to emeralds in one-of a kind settings,” said PSC Associate Professor of Earth Science Lee Anne Burrough. “It’s a great place to get questions answered about a rock you found and provides a unique opportunity to add some spectacular fossils and rocks to your collection at really reasonable prices.”

The family-friendly event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Burrough at lburrough@prairiestate.edu or (708) 709-3674, or Daniel Bolm at (708) 821-3674 or danielbolm096@gmail.com.