News

Exhibition features rare jewellery, opals, fossils

CONSIDERED to be lucky, even magical, gems, rocks and minerals have been a source of fascination since the Stone Age, with lapidarists or artists who fashion them into items still flourishing today.

Operating for more than half a century, the Bankstown Lapidary Club – comprising near 100 members – is a hub of enthusiastic collectors who meet to swap treasures and learn skills from traders and specialists in the field.
Adding extra sparkle to their efforts this month, the group is gearing up for their biggest show of the year at Arena Sports Club, Yagoona, on June 5 and 6 (9.30-5pm).
Described as ‘huge’ by lapidary club president Beverley Hodder, the exhibition will feature rare jewellery, gem stones, fossils, opals, healing crystals, mineral specimens from around the world, lapidary supplies, carving demos and a lucky door prize, with bistro meals and refreshments also available.
Beverley, who specialises in silver work, said it was a busy time of the year for the club members.
“There is a lot of work building up to the weekend of our exhibition,” she said.
“Club members will be offering some beautiful, hand-made items that are a lot more affordable and unique than what you would find in a store.”
One of the traders attending the exhibition, Peter Beckworth, said there would be plenty of amazing pieces to see.
“There’s mammoth tusks, rare diamonds, a stunning amethyst egg and amethyst spheres which are really quite something,” he said.
A great day out for the family, tickets cost $7 for adults and free for those aged under 18 (with a parent).
For more info: Beverley, 9642 1267.