The Reno Gem and Mineral Society (RGMS) is a non-profit. 501c3 organization, established in 1965 to create, develop, and encourage interest in earth sciences, and skills with gem and mineral crafts. Remember when you were a kid, found that pretty rock and put it in your pocket? We never outgrew that. We are a community of adventurers and artists, explorers and craftspeople, educators and lifelong learners. The Reno Gem and Mineral Society offers field trips, classes, education outreach, programs for kids, and presents 2 annual Artisan Festivals and an annual, 3-day Gem & Mineral Show.
As a member of the Reno Gem and Mineral Society (RGMS), you can discover the beauty of the Earth’s natural wonders and learn how to craft your own unique creations. It’s the excitement of finding treasure in the Nevada landscape, learning about its geology, rocks and minerals. It’s mastering new skills and making a rough rock that you plucked from the ground transform in your hands into a polished object of beauty, and making it into artisan jewelry.
At least once a month between April and October, members can go out in the field to collect and learn about rocks, minerals, and fossils. RGMS field trips often provide access to areas that are unavailable to the public. Day trips and multi-day outings are led by experienced members, knowledgeable about the dig sites. Field trips are a great way to meet other members and gain knowledge! We love to share finds with new members, where to go, and what to do with those finds. And there are amazing treasures to be found – geodes and agates, ammonites, jaspers, opals, turquoise, and so much more! You don’t need to be an expert or a geologist – you just need curiosity, an interest in rocks, and a sense of adventure!
RGMS offers jewelry making and lapidary classes to turn those rocks, gems, and fossils found right here in Nevada into handmade works of art. Classes are taught by RGMS volunteer instructors who have years of experience, some with Master’s level credentials. Classes include rock and mineral identification, lapidary (cutting/shaping/polishing stones), and jewelry making (silversmithing, lost wax, wire-wrapping, beading, etc.) We have all the equipment at the RGMS Building.
Located at 480 S. Rock Blvd in Sparks, the RGMS “Rock” Building has a full lapidary shop, a silversmithing work/instruction area, and tools for member classes and use. RGMS is in the process of expanding the facility and adding new classrooms, new equipment, and new opportunities.