The University of Arizona’s Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum is excited to host its first-ever event, “A Day at the Alfie,” on Saturday, February 4th. This event is open to the public at no cost, offering a full day of expert talks and networking opportunities, capped off with an evening reception. Unlike many gem show events, this one is accessible to all, with no need for invitations or tickets.
Throughout the day, attendees will have the chance to attend presentations by leading researchers, rock enthusiasts, and jewelry specialists. The museum will also debut new exhibits, ensuring a fresh experience for all visitors. Due to limited seating, those interested in the presentations are encouraged to arrive early.
Event Schedule
Morning Presentations (9:30am-2:45pm)
10am: Aaron Palke from the Gemological Institute of America will discuss “Sapphires from Montana: Gemology, Geology, and History.”
11am: Bruce Bridges of Bridges Tsavorite will present “The Discovery and Faceting of The Lion of Merelani Tsavorite.”
12pm: David Smith from Faceters Paradise will talk about “The United States Faceters Guild.”
1pm: Les Presmyk, Chairman of the Flagg Mineral Foundation, will share insights on “Underground Collecting: Adventures in Arizona and Mexico.”
2pm: Wim Vertriest from the Gemological Institute of America will cover “Mozambican Rubies: News from the Field.”
Afternoon Presentations (3-6:45pm)
3pm: Jeff Morrison of Havey Quarry will discuss “Mining the Havey Tourmaline Quarry.”
4pm: Robert Weldon from the Gemological Institute of America will present “Rediscovering the Chivor Mine: In the Footsteps of Peter Rainier.”
5pm: Jesse Fisher will explore “Fluorite from the Weardale Region, Northern England.”
6pm: Justin Prim, a Faceting Apprentice, will talk about “Pioneering the American Faceting Movement.”
Evening Reception (7-9:30pm)
The day will conclude with an evening reception featuring live music, refreshments, and a chance to explore the museum’s new exhibits.
Additional Museum Events
In the lead-up to “A Day at the Alfie,” the museum will host various events, including free faceting demonstrations and extended hours on select days. Visitors can also attend continuing education seminars by the Gemological Institute of America, which will cover topics such as colored stones, jewelry forensics, and pearl evaluation.
This event is a unique opportunity to engage with experts and enthusiasts in the fields of gemology and mineralogy. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, “A Day at the Alfie” has something to offer everyone.
