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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
May 2005.

Table of Contents.

• PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE;
• WORDS TO LIVE BY;
• PROGRAM - MAY 25, 2005;
• The best part of life;
• REVIEW - April 27, 2005;
• MARK YOUR CALENDARS;
• IN MEMORY OF Eleanor Rising;
• CHIPS & BOULDERS;
• THE MUSEUM CORNER;
• Surfing the Web, Part Four: Museums;
• Rockhounding On the Internet;
• Web Sites;
• Program Schedule for Monthly Meetings;
• JUNE BIRTHDAYS;
• HOSPITALITY;
• PUBLIC OUTREACH;
• "FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN";
• Why is it;
• HINTS & TIPS FOR ROCKHOUNDS - (Use at your own risk);
• THE MIRACLES OF DRINKING WATER;
• MEMBERSHIP;
• VGMS MINUTES;
• Insurance - Umbrella Policies;
• Keep Your Eyes Open & Fossil News;
• Ingredients of an Arrowhead;
• IT'S ONLY A ROCK;
• ANOTHER BAD IDEA FROM THE GOVERNMENT;
• Test Your Gemstone Genius;
• SHOW DATES;
• EDITOR'S NOTE;
• CFMS SHOW IN ROSEVILLE;
• EDUCATIONAL CORNER;
• VGMS PHOTO ALBUM;
• Camp Paradise 2005 Application.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.

We are now halfway through the Spring season and the warmer weather has finally arrived. Many people are busy planning their vacations for the summer months. Don't forget to include a mineral show or a field trip in your travels. These are great ways to see new things and to meet new faces.

The VGMS Lapidary class, led by Wayne Ehlers, came to a successful conclusion after 5 weekly sessions. A word of thanks goes to Wayne and other members who assisted him in teaching the class. The class was well attended.

One of the most rewarding aspects of our club is the way in which members share information and knowledge regarding our hobby. The "exchange of ideas with friends" is the key to the growth of our club. This includes sharing information through personal conversation, making copies of interesting articles for distribution, giving lectures, offering tours of our museum, loaning books, exhibiting specimens at mineral shows and museums, leading field trips, giving away fossils, rocks, minerals, etc., to others who want to learn and, over all, being active in our club.

Ed Clark, President.

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WORDS TO LIVE BY.

Gray hair is a sign of age, not of wisdom.

Laziness may appear attractive, but work gives satisfaction.

When you see someone without a smile give him one of yours.

The bad thing about being a good sport is that you have to lose to prove it.

Collected by Wayne Ehlers.

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PROGRAM - MAY 25, 2005:
"Silent Auction Extraordinaire"
with Ray and Florence Meisenheimer.

Come and bring your pocketbook and your muscles to carry home all your treasures from the Silent Auction! Ray and Florence always have some very nice and interesting material that they have been hiding! They would also appreciate any items you would like to donate for this excellent cause. The competition is always keen and fun! Hope to see you there.

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The best part of life is when your family becomes your friends and your friends become your family.
Dancia Whitfield.

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REVIEW - April 27, 2005:
Mineral Identification by Ed Clark.

Our President, Ed Clark, gave a wonderful program on how to identify rocks, gems and minerals starting with the basics. He had a hands-on display of many of the different specimens which he passed around. He stressed that many factors are used to determine identity including color, crystal shape, luster (metallic, vitreous - glass like, greasy - i.e. serpentine), hardness (Mohs scale with talc being softest and diamond the hardest) and others. There are several guides on the market; Ed uses a couple different ones. The Eyewitness Handbook "Rocks and Minerals" is a regular for him and also the Audubon - Rocks is good but a little harder to use. This is a topic that is never ending and most interesting. Some members brought material to be classified which was challenging and a learning experience. This was a great program for our new members and also for the seasoned ones! Thank you Ed, it was most educational and we must do it again!

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS:

5-20, 21, 22-05 - Field Trip - Jade Cove.
5-25-05 - VGMS Regular Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Lexington. - Silent Auction with Ray & Florence Meisenheimer.
5-27 to 31-05 - Field Trip - McDermitt, NV.
6-2-05 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the I.B.E.W. Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura CA. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
6-10-05 - DEADLINE FOR JUNE Bulletin Articles to the Editor!
6-18-05 - VGMS Work Shop - Museum - Open - 9 to noon.
6-22-05 - VGMS Regular Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the Lexington.
7-7-05 - VGMS Board Meeting - 7:30 pm - At the I.B.E.W. Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura CA. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.
7-16-05 - VGMS Work Shop - Museum - Open - 9 to noon.

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IN MEMORY OF
Eleanor Rising.

Former member Eleanor Rising passed away at home May 1. She was in her nineties. Eleanor was very active all her life, working with girls at the old Girl School, City Recreation Department, and Ventura League for girls. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, as well as Ventura Gem and Mineral Society. She enjoyed very much her weekly bridge club. One of the important things to her was the Ventura County Fair. She often entered exhibits but spent more time volunteering as a judge for 45 years - sometimes judging floral arrangements, but usually arts and crafts. Myron, known as Curley preceded her in death in 1987. Curley was a member off and on before he and Eleanor joined in 1982. Eleanor served on several committees and enjoyed being refreshment hostess, as she liked to cook. She often brought tasty deserts from new recipes for members to enjoy.
     Florence Meisenheimer.

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CHIPS & BOULDERS.

HELP!! We are still in need of Programs - Check out the program schedule and consider volunteering for an open month. It is a great way to have a program that you have wanted to learn more about. The more we can schedule ahead, the better publicity we can get out for the meetings.

Field Trip Enthusiasts - Check out the CFMS website (www.cfmsinc.org/) under "field trips" and at the very end of the section they talk "About LA Rocks". There are a number of rock clubs in the LA area that are collaborating on a joint field trip schedule that would be open to all clubs. You can enter your email address to join the discussions. It is open to everyone. Sounds like a good way to keep abreast of what is going on in our area and be a part of planning.

Jewelry Equipment for sale - Leonard or Sara, Oxnard, 983-4984. Let the telephone ring; they may be out in the back yard.
1) 14" Lortone slab saw (LS14) chop type saw;
2) Silversmithing equipment;
3) Various other saws, buffers and sanders;
4) Turquoise;
5) Magnifying lamp;
6) Other types of equipment.
     Ron Wise.

Please Note: - Please start the subject with "VGMS (space)" when sending e-mails with Bulletin information. This will help Jim to sort them and, hopefully, not miss any! E-mails work great as we can just roll the information over and don't have to re-type it, so keep them coming!! jns@west.net; Thanks!

Hosts and Hostesses Schedule for 2005 Meetings - We are still in need of a volunteer for September. If you are able to help out in that month, give Sharon Cunningham a call at 805 649-3579. Thank you to all who have volunteered, many hands make tasks much more enjoyable!
     April: Jean & Ron Wise,
     May: Susan & Steve Mulqueen,
     June: Nancy & Jim Brace-Thompson,
     July: Shirley & Richard Bromser,
     August: Florence & Ray Meisenheimer,
     September: Open,
     October: Emma Mayer,
     November: Pumpkin Pies - Everyone,
     December: Christmas Party.

VGMS Workshops - They are held on the third Saturday of each month from 9:00 until noon unless otherwise notified. The Shop Supervisors are: Ron Wise (805) 647-4393 & Greg Davis (805) 647-9214. Stop and say thanks to these volunteers for the opportunity they give the rest of us. It is there for your use, take advantage of it.

CFMS & AFMS Newsletters - Anyone interested in their own subscriptions to these, please contact Shirley Layton (805 717-9226). The cost for one year is $5.50 for the CFMS and $4.50 for the AFMS. I do share some information from these with you, but there is much more in each issue that you may be interested in.

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THE MUSEUM CORNER,
By Debbie Bunn, Chair, Museum Committee.

If you happen to be in the Sacramento area, and are interested in the history of gold mining; plan to visit the historic Kennedy Gold Mine in Jackson, CA. Take the above ground self guided tour and visit the 135 foot high head frame erected over the deepest vertical shaft in the Mother Lode. This is one of the most photographed sites in the gold country, so bring your camera. See the abandoned stamp mill and other mining equipment.

Take a docent-guided tour and visit the 3-story mine office building with its retort, assay, pay room, and third story bedrooms. Learn about the deadly fire that claimed 47 lives; bodies which remain in the mine to this day. The Change House has a simulated underground mining tunnel, mining displays, and several rock display cases organized by the Amador County gem & mineral club. There is a great gift shop with items for the kids and the serious gold rush collector. There is a good collection of gold rush themed books and CD's, including songs of the gold rush.

Jackson is 42 miles east of Sacramento on Highway 49, halfway between Placerville and Sonora. The mine is open on weekends March thru October. Hours are 10 am to 3 pm. The entrance fee is $9 for those 13 years and older, $5 for ages 6 thru 12, and free for those 5 and under. The entrance off the highway is a little tricky. One entrance is thru the Linda Vista motel and church. The other entrance is across from the rest stop/view site. If you enter the town of Jackson, you've gone too far.

Spring is a particularly lovely time to visit the gold country. But even in the summer, Jackson is usually several degrees cooler than Sacramento. There are many other gold rush sites in the area including the giant water wheel and the Amador county museum. Come and spend a weekend in the gold country and be sure to visit the Kennedy gold mine.
     CFMS Newsletter - May 2005.

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Surfing the Web, Part Four: Museums
By Jim Brace-Thompson, Juniors Activities Chair.

In my fourth and final column on using the web to tap into the interest of today's computer-connected kids, I provide annotated listings of Web sites for natural history museums. Museums are wonderful resources and make for great field trip destinations with kids. Unfortunately, not all of us are conveniently located close to a museum. The Web circumvents this problem, and today, pretty much every major museum - and most smaller, regional museums - offer a glimpse of their collections on-line, combined with additional educational resources and links. For instance, just a few seconds after typing "Natural History Museums" into the Google search engine, I found a long list of sites. I explore just a few for this month's column. Each offers excellent listings of other museums, complete with links that take you to them.

www.lib.washington.edu/sla/natmus.html:

An "Education Index Top Site," here you'll find direct links to local and regional museums, large and small museums, and university collections across the U.S. and around the world. One of the most comprehensive collections of museum links I've seen!

www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/:

The University of California, Berkeley, Museum of Paleontology is a research museum not open to the general public - except through this web site. Links allow you to explore the museum collections, enter a "paleoportal," and learn about exhibits and education on the history of life.

paleo.cc/kpaleo/museums.htm:

"Kuban's Guide to Natural History Museums on the Web" features annotated links to the larger, more famous museums and virtual museums that feature displays of fossils, paleontology, and related subjects.

www.clpgh.org/cmnh/exhibits/hillman/index.html:

Visit dinosaur exhibits and the Hillman Hall of Minerals and Gems at the Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh.

www.rom.on.ca/:

The Royal Ontario Museum of Toronto, Canada, is a true treasure from our neighbors of the North.

www.mnh.si.edu/earth:

"The Dynamic Earth" gives you an inside look at geology exhibits at Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History as well as info on geological processes. For instance, see how caves form or how minerals precipitate and change under heat and pressure.

www.amnh.org/education/resources/:

Online activities and resources are available through the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Lessons are written for primary through high school levels (and divided by grade levels) in five areas, including Earth Science, Paleontology, and Astronomy. You'll find 17 lessons on Minerals, 6 on Meteorites, and more than 25 on various aspects of Paleontology.

Museums are terrific places to take kids for "indoor field trips," but if the nearest museum is too far away, distance need not preclude a visit. Take your kids on a "virtual" field trip. The furthest museum is now just a mouse click away! As with the sites I shared last month, these sites scratch just the surface of what's out there. Make this into an activity for your juniors by exploring one museum's web site as a group and then encouraging them to surf the Web for interesting museum sites and having them share what they find with their fellow members at your next meeting. Let's capitalize on the tools today's kids use for learning while-as always-having fun!
     CFMS Newsletter May 2005.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

Rockhounding On the Internet.

     Rockhounding, and mineral and fossil collecting, can be fun and exciting on the internet. You are able to visit far away collecting locations without leaving the comfort of your home. Many people love to fill personal web sites with photos and even movies of their rockhounding experiences. You should consider doing this yourself - even if you don't have a scanner or digital camera, you can have the store that develops your photos put them on a disk, which you can use to put them on your web site.
     To start rockhounding on the internet, type up your favorite topic in the "search" box. Whether you are interested in garnets, wingate agate, marine fossils, or pyrite, you'll find hundreds of web sites to keep you occupied. Below are some suggested web sites to visit:
          www.nzrubyrock.com,
          http://rockhounding.com,
          www.fluorites.com,
          www.emeralds.com,
          www.sapphires.com,
          www.yuprocks.com.
Via Rock Chippings - January 2004.

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Web Sites.

AFMS web site - http://www.amfed.org/,
CFMS web site - http://www.cfmsinc.org/,
CA BLM web site - http://www.ca.blm.gov/.

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Program Schedule for Monthly Meetings,
Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, 2005.

We are working on the Schedule for 2005. Think about what you would like and volunteer for that month! It's a good way to get a program of your interest! The quicker we fill up the schedule, the more advance notice everyone will have of the program.

In the absence of a Program Chairman for the year 2005, the President is asking for volunteers to take responsibility for planning a program for at least one of the monthly meetings. Any vacancies remaining after this request will be filled by appointment.

*The designated "Speaker" is responsible for one of the following options during the assigned meeting:
     Present a lecture;
     Invite a guest speaker, introduce him/her at the meeting;
     Present a video related to our hobby.

Please Note: A good source for programs if you have signed up for a month and need material is the CFMS Slide and Video Library AKA "Podium People". For this and slide programs or CFMS Club rosters, please contact Florence Meisenheimer - CFMS website would also be of help.

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JUNE BIRTHDAYS.

Happy Birthday to all those born in June. We all wish you good health and hope you have a Great Day! With our new members (and some of the old ones), I have some gaps in my list. Help me out - please let me know if I have missed your birthday. Call Shirley Layton at 805-717-9226 and leave a message if I'm not there or an email will also do the trick, jns@west.net. Thanks!

June - Happy Birthday!!
     Steve Mulqueen - 1st,
     Wayne Ehlers - 3rd,
     Linda Clement - 10th,
     Matthew Beinar - 23rd,
     Shirley Layton - 23rd,
     Joe Bennett - 26th,
     Kathryn Davis - 27th,
     Esther Barshai - 28th.

The June birthstone is the Pearl and the flower is the Rose.


PEARL, gem.
     Pearl is a hard, rounded secretion formed inside the shell of certain bivalve mollusks, used as a gem. It is secreted by the epithelial cells of the mantle, a curtain of tissue between the shell and body mass, and is deposited in successive layers around an irritating object such as a parasite or grain of sand that gets caught in the soft tissue of the mollusk. The pearl is built up of layers of aragonite or calcite (crystalline forms of calcium carbonate) held together by conchiolin (a horny organic substance); its composition is identical to that of the mother-of-pearl, or nacre, that forms the interior layer of the mollusk shell. Pearls may be round, pear-shaped, button-shaped, or irregular (baroque) and are valued in that order. Pearls found attached to the inner surface of the shell are known as blister pearls. The best pearls are usually white, sometimes with a creamy or pinkish tinge, but may be tinted with yellow, green, blue, brown, or black. Black pearls, because of their rarity, are often highly valued. The unique luster, or orient, of pearls depends upon the reflection and refraction of light from the translucent layers and is finer in proportion as the layers are thinner and more numerous. The iridescence which some pearls display is caused by the overlapping of successive layers, which breaks up light falling on the surface. Pearls are not cut or polished like other gems. They are very soft and are injured by acids and heat; as organic products, they are subject to decay. Commercially valuable pearls are obtained from the pearl oyster (especially of the genus Pinctata) and from the freshwater pearl mussel (genus Unio). The largest natural pearl center is the Persian Gulf, which is said to produce the finest saltwater pearls. Other important sources are the coasts of India, China, Japan, Australia, the Sulu Archipelago, various Pacific islands, Venezuela, and Central America, and the rivers of Europe and North America. In ancient times the Red Sea was an important source. Nearly all of the world's supply of cultured pearls is produced by the Japanese, who have perfected the techniques of pearl cultivation. Pearls are commonly produced by placing a small mother-of-pearl bead enclosed in a piece of mantle tissue in the body of the oyster. The oysters are then placed in cages that are suspended into sheltered bays for the period of time (up to 4 years) required for pearl formation.
     The Columbia Encyclopedia, Sixth Edition. Copyright (c) 2001 Columbia University Press.

Pearl Care:
University of Wisconsin.

The following care advice pertains to all types of pearls, coral and mother-of-pearl (shell) material.

Pearl Care:
     Because they are an organic gem comprised of calcium carbonate, pearls require more specialized care than most other gem materials. They are particularly subject to deterioration from contact with chemicals, including components in household cleaners, perfumes, cosmetics and hair care products of all kinds.
     The surface of a pearl is soft and is easily damaged. Pearls set in rings and bracelets are more subject to scuffing and scratching than pearls set in brooches, earrings, necklaces or strands. A pearl ring or bracelet should be considered a special-occasion piece, not for daily wear and DEFINITELY not to be worn while working with the hands.
     A good rule of thumb is that pearls are THE LAST THING YOU PUT ON when dressing and THE FIRST THING YOU TAKE OFF when you get home. NEVER apply perfume or hairspray when you are wearing pearl jewelry, especially a strand of pearls.

Storage:
     Pearl strands should be stored separately from other jewelry because the surface of a pearl is soft and easily scratched by other gems. A silk bag, velvet-lined box or pearl folder (a satin-lined leatherette envelope with snaps to hold a strand in place) are all good places to store pearls. Your local jeweler is a good source for these items.
     NEVER store pearls in a plastic bag. Some types of plastic emit a chemical that will cause the surface of your pearls to deteriorate.
     Don't store pearls in a safe or safety deposit box for long periods. The same ultra-dry atmospheric conditions that extend the life of paper documents may dry out your pearls and cause them to craze (to develop small fractures in the surface).
     Pearl strands should be stored flat rather than hanging so the thread won't stretch out prematurely.

Stringing:
     Pearl strands should be restrung every one to two years or more often if the thread begins to bag or fray. Silk and nylon beading threads are the most commonly used materials for stringing pearls.
     Knotting between beads offers the most security for your pearls; no matter where the strand breaks, you only stand to lose a single bead. The look of the knotted strand is not to everyone's taste, however. Whether you string your pearls with or without knots, the first three or four beads on either side nearest the clasp should be knotted because this area takes the most wear and is the commonest place for a strand to break.

Cleaning Strands:
     Lay the strand flat on a clean soft cloth or towel. Make a mild solution of soap flakes (the author uses Ivory soap flakes) and warm water, and apply with a new pure natural bristle complexion or manicure brush, scrubbing gently. Being careful to support the strand so as not to stretch the thread, turn the necklace over and repeat. To rinse, submerge the strand in cool water, flush with cool tap water for a minimum of five minutes. Carefully remove the strand from the water and lay it on a fresh towel to air dry. Don't move it until it is completely dry.

Other pearl jewelry:
     The principle is the same: use only a mild soap and a natural bristle brush, then rinse with cool water for at least five minutes.
     NEVER USE DETERGENTS, HOUSEHOLD CLEANERS, COMMERCIAL JEWELRY CLEANERS OR TARNISH REMOVERS ON PEARL JEWELRY.
     Never use your pearl cleaning brush for anything else, and store it where it will not become dusty or soiled.
     Pearls will naturally darken slightly with age and wear. The golden or creamy tones that come with age cannot be removed.

Pearl = a dense variously colored and usually lustrous concretion formed of concentric layers of nacre as an abnormal growth within the shell of some mollusks and used as a gem.
     Breecia September 2002.
     MOROKS Monrovia Rockhounds Newsletter OCTOBER 2002.

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HOSPITALITY.

The April meeting was alive with 24 members, seven guests (one being a pebble pup) and one pebble pup. The guests were Dennis and Donna Goodenough, Candy Polhemus, Gary Baker, Ashley Patton, Jeremy Patton and Paul Polacek. Callie Stephens was our member Pebble Pup. We are so happy to have all of them with us and hope they come again. It was a great learning program with the identification of rocks/minerals. Ron and Jean Wise furnished some great refreshments, which were enjoyed by all. Door prizes were won by several, which is always fun. Hope you all can make it to the May meeting on the 25th. We missed our hostess Sharlyne Holloway and hope she will be with us in May as well.

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PUBLIC OUTREACH.

Nearly 1000 students, grades 6 to 12 gathered at the Ventura County Fairgrounds recently to take part in the 51st school science fair. All three Ventura County gem and mineral clubs were represented with displays and hand-outs. Ray Meisenheimer, representing VGMS, spent the day there, with a nice display of fossils from our museum. He talked, to the young people and teachers, (and parents, too) answered questions, and signed off their questionnaires when they were completed.

Our president, Ed Clark was one of the judges. He said it is his first time as judge there, and it was an interesting experience.

Contributed by Florence Meisenheimer.

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"FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN."

Field Trip - Holbrook, AZ.

Would you like some Wood? Some Petrified Wood from Arizona?

Brett, the Field Trip Coordinator of the Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society has an opportunity for you. A ranch owner on the western boundary of the Petrified Forest in Arizona is opening up his ranch to us for collecting the wood. A large portion of his ranch will be purchased by the United States Parks to expand the Petrified Forest and protect these treasures. So, this may be our last opportunity to get some of the most beautiful Petrified Wood in the world. The rancher will charge us just $1.00 per pound of material we collect. The collecting trip is scheduled for Saturday, May 28th.

This is the Plan. We will rent a vehicle large enough to take all those wanting to attend the Dig. Rental, Insurance, and Fuel will be divided amongst the group. We will drive to Holbrook, AZ on Friday, spend the night at a Reputable Hotel, and meet up with the other folks attending the Dig at 6 o'clock in the morning on Saturday. The day will be spent digging and collecting, later we will haul our treasures to be weighed and purchased.

If you are interested and wish to attend this great opportunity, email Brett with you name, phone #, and number of persons going at bj9709@yahoo.com. We need you to contact Brett before Friday, May 20th. He will need time to get this organized. He will be at our meeting for further questions but he needs to know how many are going by the 20th. Thank you.
     Brett Johnson, OGMS Field Trip Coordinator

JADE COVE FIELDTRIP,
May 20, 21, 22.

Fieldtrip: The May field trip will be to Plaskett Creek campground. I will be camping in the campground, look for the Orange and Blue colored stake. I will arrive Thursday afternoon. The campground is on the right side of the highway. The sign is small and hard to see, you may have to look hard for the sign. Our collecting efforts will be for Jade, but we will probably find a lot of serpentine.
     Take highway 101 north through Ventura and Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo, TURN on Highway 1. Travel on Hwy 1 north through Morro Bay and past San Simeon to Plaskett Creek National Forest Campground. We will meet at my campsite. The campground is about 220 miles from Camarillo. North of San Luis Obispo the highway road is curvy along the coast, about 60/65 miles to the campgrounds. Allow extra traveling time on the two-lane road.
Time: We'll meet at my camp site Saturday about 11:30 AM There will be an Orange & Blue stake at my site.
     We will focus our efforts on two locations:
The first one is across the highway near the campground. The trail starts at the day parking area where a good path leads down to the beach. We will meet again and drive and park near the second area on the beach. We will be looking for the low tide at both sites. REMEMBER bring clothing appropriate for the weather, it could be windy and overcast. Boots are recommended.
Camping Facilities: Plaskett Creek Campground is a National Forest campground, there is a camping fee. You can double-up on the sites. Tables, water, fire pits and toilet facilities are available. However, there are NO HOOK UPS.
Motels/Supplies: There are motels at Morro Bay and San Simeon. You might want to buy your gasoline at San Luis Obispo.
Tools: Bring a small hand garden rake (three tine claw type) and a bucket.
     Any questions? Telephone Don Asher, (805) 482-2510.

McDermitt, Nevada,
Triclub fieldtrip,
May 27-31, 2005.

      On the way home from the Texas Springs fieldtrip in 2003 we decided to check out the McDermitt area and were amazed by the number of collecting sites, variety of materials, and the area itself. The petrified bog, a.k.a....is amazing. There are numerous sites to dig for petrified wood. In addition there are other sites with possibilities of agates, jasper, wonderstone and even cinnabar, if you decide to attend please do not lick the rocks.
     Last year on our way home from Utah we wanted to stop and rockhound in the McDermitt area, because of time restraints we did not. At that time we decided to make that a priority trip for next year.

Directions: From Winnemucca, Nevada, on U S Interstate 80-take highway 95 north to McDermitt about 73 miles. Proceed through town, into Oregon and you will find the RV Park on the left side of the road. Depending on your route McDermitt is about 750 miles from Ventura. Just think about all those beautiful rocks hiding in Nevada just waiting to be found.

Camping - Note: We will be staying in the Mitchell State Line RV park in Oregon. The RV Park has full hookups, showers, laundry, and tent sites. Telephone number for the RV Park is 541-522-8101.

Motels: Motels available in are the Diamond A Motel, 775-532-8551, or McDermitt Motel, 775-532-8588.

Friday: We will leave at 8:00 am for an exploratory run to check out possible collecting sites and return early in the afternoon to welcome those who show up on Friday evening.

Meeting: We will leave at 8:00 am for various collecting sites each day.

Rockhounding: This area is rich in a number of minerals and rocks, geological marvels, and old mines. Rocks found within a few miles of our camping area include: petrified wood, cinnabar, purple agate, wonderstone, opalite and a petrified bog called Larsenite or Gary's green.

Equipment: A four-wheel drive is not necessary but you will need a high clearance vehicle on most of the roads to the collecting sites. Be sure to bring a shovel, good pair of gloves along with our regular rockhounding equipment. You will have to dig for the wood. Please bring a variety of clothing to meet whatever weather condition occurs. You might consider a small cooler for your lunch and drinks for the day, we will not return to the RV Park for lunch. DO NOT forget your hat, sunscreen and lip ice.

Other opportunities: It is a long drive to McDermitt, the state of Nevada and the area around McDermitt is rich in collecting areas. You may discover a site that you could stop and spend a few hours collecting.

TRI-CLUB FIELD TRIPS 2005:
Before going on a field trip PLEASE
contact field trip leader to confirm
that there is a field trip scheduled.

*** Please call your club field trip leader to confirm that there is a field trip scheduled in the event of changes.

Field Trip Chair - South Report:
Desert Safety Tips
By Bob Fitzpatrick, Field Trip Chair - South.

     Travel in the desert can be an adventure. It can also be a disaster if a breakdown or a sudden change in the weather catches you unprepared. Be aware of the hazards of desert travel, both in winter and summer. Harsh weather conditions can turn a desert outing into a tragedy. Acquire knowledge of desert survival skills. Travel in pairs for safety.
     Plan your trip carefully. Tell someone where you are going and when you will return. Stick with your itinerary and let them know when you return. Do not travel in the desert backcountry without taking along appropriate maps such as 7.5-minute USGS topographic maps with contours and specific features. Learn how to use a GPS system and topographic maps and compass before you hike cross county. It is easy to become disoriented in the desert where many landmarks and rock formations look similar.
     Dress properly. In summer, layered clothing slows dehydration and minimizes exposure. Good hiking shoes, loose-fitting natural-fiber clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are a must. Desert temperatures can reach over 90° F and drop below 50° F in one day. Summer temperatures can reach 125° F in some locations. In winter, temperatures can often drop below freezing. Bring extra warm clothing.
     Carry plenty of water. There are no dependable sources of water within the California desert. A gallon of water per person per day is the absolute minimum that should be carried. When planning a hike, remember that water weighs approximately eight pounds per gallon. When the water is half gone, it is time to turn back. Don't forget extra water for your vehicle. Do not ration your water. It will only do you good if you drink it.
          CFMS Newsletter May 2005.

  Table of Contents.

Why is it that a slight tax increase costs you $200 and a substantial tax cut saves you 30¢? Del Air Bulletin 05/04.

  Table of Contents.

HINTS & TIPS FOR ROCKHOUNDS,
(Use at your own risk).

Heat Treating Agates - Some agates respond well to heat-treating to restore colors. For example, many Lake Superior agates have lost their vivid reds and oranges. The structures are intact but the color has faded to almost uniform light tans and browns. Heating them restores much of their original vibrancy. Some other stones that especially benefit are Brazilian agate and Carnelian. To treat, place a layer of clean sand or kitty litter 1/2 inch deep in a Pyrex^TM dish. Place a layer of rocks (slabs) in the dish. Cover thinly with sand or kitty litter. Repeat until all rocks are used. Place in oven at lowest setting (150 degrees) for two hours. This drives out the moisture that could cause the stones to explode, then raise the temperature 50 degrees every 1/2 hour until 500 degrees are reached. Leave on for two hours at 500, then turn off the oven to let cool, preferably overnight ... NO PEEKING! Allow container to cool completely to room temperature before opening the oven door. This process takes approximately 10 hours.
     Author unknown, original source unknown, taken from Golden Spike News, Golden Spike G&MS Ogden, Utah, July 2004.

Have you polished a fine dark cab only to find white specks of oxide in the cab, after spending a lot of time on it? Dark materials (such as black agate, petrified wood and dark jasper) can be cleaned by using black jewelers' rouge and muslin buff. The buff will remove most of the white compound and the rouge will render it almost invisible.
     Author unknown, Source Pickin's & Diggin's Feb 2003.

Cleaning Fragile Crystal - To clean fragile or hard to reach recesses in mineral specimens, try CREW, a product of Johnson's Wax. Spray the foam on the rock, let it set a minute, then rinse with water. It is safe on all materials including calcite and fluorite.
     Author unknown, taken from The Tumbler, Boeing Employees' Mineralogical Society, Seattle, Washington, July 2004.

When working with a soft stone such as onyx or marble, soak it in water for a couple of days before cutting. This will keep oil from soaking in to discolor the stone and will result in a higher polish.
     Author unknown, source The Stone Chipper Austin G&M.

All of the above were from Quarry Quips - Wichita Gem & Mineral Society 4/05.

  Table of Contents.

THE MIRACLES OF DRINKING WATER.

75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated (likely applies to half the world's population).

In 37% of Americans, the thirst mechanism is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger.

Even mild hydration will slow down one's metabolism as much as 3%.

One glass of water will shut down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied in a U. Washington study.

Lack of water is the number one trigger of daytime fatigue.

Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers.

A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen or on a printed page.

Drinking 5 glasses of water daily decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash breast cancer by 79%, and one is less likely to develop bladder cancer.

Are you drinking the amount of water you should every day????
     Via Gringo Gazette.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

MEMBERSHIP.

The 2005 directories were available at the April meeting and all those that weren't able attend were mailed. Everyone should have one at this point, if not let Shirley Layton (805) 717-9226 know and she will see that you get one. We are fortunate to have several new members included, be sure to welcome all of them. If you find any corrections or additions that are needed, please advise Shirley and they will be published in the next Bulletin.

New Member:

Esther Barshai, she is the wife of Avraham (Abe) who is already listed in the directory. Welcome Esther!

Attention New Members (or anyone needing a badge).
Need a Club Badge?
Blue Engravers is giving us a $.50 reduction per badge
for advertising space in the club bulletin!
Ventura County Shape badge $11.28 (includes. tax & ship).
ACCOUNT: Ventura Gem and Mineral Society, Inc.
Name (print clearly. It will be on your name badge):

_____________________________________________

Address:

_____________________________________________

_______________________________Zip: __________

Make check payable to and mail to (takes 5-7 business days):
Blue Engravers,
1375 Caspian Ave.,
Long Beach, CA 90813.
If ordering more than 2 badges call them for exact shipping
costs at (562) 983-5140, FAX (562) 983-5146,
E-mail BLUEGRAVR@aol.com.

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VGMS MINUTES.

Minutes of the VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting,
Wednesday, April 27th, 2005:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by Ed Clark at 7:30 pm on Wednesday, April 27th, 2005 at the Lexington, Ventura, CA.
     The March meeting and board meeting minutes were corrected and then m/s/c as shown in the bulletin.
Ed Clark welcomed everyone, introduced guests and began with our salute to the flag. The May general meeting program will consist of a silent auction, so come prepared with your check books.
Ron Wise - There'll be a field trip on April 29th - May 1st to the Cady Mtn. area led by Bob Fitzpatrick. See this bulletin for details. Jade Cove is scheduled for May 21st & 22nd and a possible trip to the Cerro Gordo area near Lone Pine, June 26.
Shirley Layton - The 10th of April will be the deadline for articles and photographs to be submitted for the bulletin. The new directories were issued and others will be mailed out.
Richard Bromser gave the treasurer's report and brought up for discussion, the possibility of having new show cases made this year. Specifics (mainly case designs) will be gathered and discussion continued at the next board meeting.
Shirley Bromser - Club dues were due the end of March and we now have 52 paid members.
Ray Meisenheimer - Ray awarded raffle prizes and reminded everyone of the upcoming Federation Show in Roseville this June. Ray also participated in the annual Science Fair held at the fair grounds which can be another way of notifying potential members of our club.
Wayne Ehlers - The spring cab class finished up and was a big success with as many as 9 students one evening. A lot of self-collected material was brought in by members and worked and a lot of people experienced the satisfaction of seeing their first polished cab. On the last evening of the session, Greg gave a brief introduction to silversmithing which so often is a next step with lapidary.
Jim Brace-Thompson - Don't forget the Conejo Show, May 14th & 15th and speaking of shows, we may be getting the agriculture building at the fair grounds for our show next year. The Ventura Hillside Conservancy is putting on a fundraiser/demonstration at Arroyo Verde park in Ventura on May 2-4. It will include displays of local rocks and could garner people's interest in our hobby.
Ed Clark next presented an excellent program on mineral identification, including the basics of color, hardness, crystal habit, luster, streak, specific gravity, fluorescence and magnetism used in determining the identity of our finds. It was well done by Ed and so valuable to new members, that perhaps it should become a regular presentation for the benefit of members.
     Refreshments were provided by Jean & Ron Wise.
     The next Board meeting will be Thursday, May 5th at the IBEW Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura, CA. All are welcomed to attend and the next regular meeting will be held May 25th at the Lexington.
     There being no further business, President Ed Clark adjourned the meeting at 8:50 pm.
          Respectfully submitted, Greg Davis.


Minutes of the VGMS Monthly Board Meeting,
Thursday, May 5, 2005:
     The Regular Board Meeting of the VGMS was called to order by Steve Mulqueen at 7:30 pm on Thursday, May 5, 2005, at the I.B.E.W. Hall, 3994 E. Main St., Ventura, CA.
Present: Steve Mulqueen, Ray and Florence Meisenheimer, Richard and Shirley Bromser and Jim Brace-Thompson.
Steve Mulqueen appointed Richard Bromser as Recording Secretary Pro-Tem and Ray Meisenheimer as Second V.P. Pro-Tem. This gave the Board a quorum.
Old Business: Ray reported he had contacted the fairgrounds about moving our show to the Ag. Building. We have had our shows there in years past. Ray said we can get the Ag. Building for our 2007 show and possibly get it for our 2006 show. It was m/s/c for Ray to reserve the Ag. Building for our 2007 show and 2006 if possible.
Jim Brace-Thompson reported on the status of ten new show cases. Jim said he would take his show cases to the CFMS show in June and ask Cal Clason if he could make 10 like his and get an estimate of the cost and time frame.
New Business: Jim Brace-Thompson said he still needed some chair persons. Ray volunteered to take the Dealers' Chair if Jim could not get anyone else.
Richard Bromser: It was m/s/c to accept the Treasurer's Reports for the months of February, March and April.
Shirley Bromser, Membership Secretary, submitted the following applications for membership: Avraham & Esther Barshai, Nancy Bogart, Sandra Oster, Gregory Slak and Donna Stephens. It was m/s/c to accept all the applications for membership.
Florence reminded the Board that there will be a Silent auction at our Regular Meeting on May 25, 2005.
     There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 8:30 pm.
     Respectfully submitted,
          Richard Bromser,
          Recording Secretary Pro-Tem.

  Table of Contents.

Insurance - Umbrella Policies
By Fred Ott, Insurance Chairperson.

     Many people have heard the term "umbrella" policy and have wondered what such policies actually "do". Simply stated: an "umbrella" policy provides "excess" (or "additional") liability protection in the event of a major claim that exceeds the limits of liability that you carry on your current policies (automobile, home, boat, etc.).
     Here's an example: suppose you carry 100/300/50 limits of liability on your automobile insurance policy which, for the longest time, were very good limits. Now, unfortunately, it's much more common to see claims above these limits! These three limits mean that your insurance company will pay up to $100,000 per person but no more than $300,000 per accident (involving 3-or-more persons) in which you caused "bodily injury" to others. Additionally, the policy would also pay up to $50,000 for any "property damage" that you may have caused (such as damaging the fender on another vehicle or causing a chain-reaction of several vehicles). But what happens if you cause a "major" accident and are liable for more than these limits? That's where an "umbrella" policy comes into play. Such policies typically pay up to an additional $1 million for your legal obligations should you exhaust the limits of your "underlying" policies (autos, home, boat, rentals, etc.).
     There are several requirements that you must meet in order to qualify for such "umbrella" policies, but you may find that, in your situation, it may cost as little as $20 to $30 per month for $1 million of coverage. Call your current automobile or homeowner's insurance agent or broker and ask for a quote.
          CFMS Newsletter May 2005.

  Table of Contents.

Keep Your Eyes Open
&
Fossil News.

I love it when two things can be combined and a local story has brought together two of my favorite things-Keep Your Eyes Open and Fossil News.

New housing developments have been claiming rock hounding sites daily in Southern California. Well-known fossil locations and agate beds are rapidly being covered over by new homes. However, a developer in Moorpark did just the opposite in April. Excavations for a new housing tract revealed large fossil bones.

Fortunately, the developer was keeping his eyes open and recognized they had uncovered something of scientific value and reported the find to authorities. Currently, paleontologists in Moorpark are digging up a well-preserved specimen of an ancient mammoth species. They believe approximately 50% of the skeleton is intact, including two large tusks.

A mammoth in Moorpark is an unexpected and exciting find. When we think of mammoths we generally think of a large relative of an elephant with long shaggy hair. However, there were over 20 different species in the prehistoric elephant family. Today there are only 3 remaining species of elephant-African, forest, and Asian.

Most elephant-family fossils found in Southern California are Columbian or Imperial mammoth, or on occasion mastodon. The majority are from the La Brea Tar pits, the Hemit area, or the pygmy mammoth remains found on the Channel Islands. These are all typically late Pleistocene, some as recent as 20-15,000 years ago.

The Moorpark mammoth is a different species altogether. Only a handful of specimens representing this type of mammoth have been found in North America. It is also thought to be much older. It has been roughly dated between 1 million and 400,000 years old, close to the time when mammoths are believed to have first migrated to North America from Asia. The Moorpark specimen may turn out to be the oldest mammoth fossil found so far in North America. Pretty exciting stuff.

Keep Your Eyes Open, you never know what you might find.

Keri Dearborn, Del-Air Rockhounds via Del-Air Bulletin - 5/05.

  Table of Contents.

Ingredients of an Arrowhead.

     The American Indian wasn't fussy about what he used to make an arrowhead as long as the material would suit his need.
     Throughout the ages, the Indian's choicest material for arrowheads was flint and flint related rocks such as chalcedony, agate, novaculite, jasper, opal, etc. He liked obsidian, too. These are silicon dioxide glass rocks of nature and, like glass, they flake beautifully in conchoidal fractures and shape easily into sharp cutting edges. Quartzite, which is more granular silica, was used extensively, but was more difficult to shape.
     The Indians of the eastern seaboard were starved for good flint-like rocks and their arrowheads are the ugliest of all since they are made of slates, quartzite, traprock, schist's and other forms of rocks, which a Wyoming Indian would have written off as junk.
     There are rumors of Wyoming jade arrowheads, but they probably aren't true. The Indians of the Valley of Mexico made beautiful jadeite sacrificial knives, but they weren't flaked. They abraded, honed and polished them into shape.
     Probably the most spectacular arrowhead ever found was a fabulous fluted early-man Clovis Point struck out of a large quartz crystal. This diamond clear point was found by a farmer in North Carolina who then took it home and used it to strike against steel to start kitchen fires. The now damaged point rests in the Smithsonian.
     Some arrowheads and spear points were made of wood, especially the stunning arrow. Many were made of bone, antler and tusk. The Indian tribes bordering the Gulf of Mexico used Garfish scales extensively. Everywhere bottles, insulators and other glass articles were popular. Best of all, Indians liked the white man's iron. Barrel hoops were a favorite source.
     The Indians also traded fur pelts to the white man for steel arrowheads.

Author unknown, From The Petrified Digest, Ginkgo Mineral Society - 7/03, via Quarry Quips, Wichita Gem & Mineral Society - 4/05.

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IT'S ONLY A ROCK!

     It's only a rock...Have you heard, that phrase, But...what if there were no rocks or stones upon the earth? If you stop and try to picture a world, without stones and rocks, it is nearly impossible to imagine. Every man, woman and child is a rockhound whether they know it or not, for we are all dependent in some way on the beautiful and useful rocks, stones and minerals that the "Maker" saw fit to place in and on the earth's crust.
     Try to picture, if you can, a world in which anything made of or containing stones and rocks were removed. There would be no architecture, statues, fountains, bridges, monuments, dams, natural wonders; no gems or minerals and it makes one wonder if there would be vegetation for vegetation is dependent on the minerals of the areas for growth.
     Would the earth be covered by a bog, or would the earth exist at all, for without the rocks and stones and mountains of rocks and natural damming action the streams and lakes and oceans would be able to run in any direction over the land.
     Gone would be the Rock of Gibraltar, the Rocky Mountains, Mount Whitney and the Alps, for example. What would Italy be without the cathedrals, statuary and fountains? Egypt, without the Pyramids? Greece, without the Acropolis? India, without the Taj Mahal? Did China's dynasties survive because of the Great Wall? How would fortresses, walls, castles, even cities have been built to withstand the ages without stone?
     From the "Stone Age" through the modern nuclear/space age, man has been dependent on stone or rock for his very existence. Where would the cave man have lived but for the rocky cave? If we are all descendent from an ape-like man who at some point in time was dependent on the use of stones as tools and weapons, would we be in existence today or extinct as other ape-like contemporary ancestors?
     Many uses of rocks and minerals have been passed down to us from early times in the form of pigments, medications, building materials and fuels, and with the industrial age, nearly every mineral has found a utilization to a point where man has had to synthesize many which are inaccessible, rare, or cost prohibitive to obtain the quantity needed in today's society.
     Except for the fabled "Fountain of Youth" which man still seeks, all the other treasures of the earth...gold, silver, jade, topaz, diamonds, rubies, emeralds, lapis lazuli, turquoise, platinum, copper, iron and all the rest that man has sought, lusted for and coveted since pre-historic times are stones or rock or found in the stone and rock layers of matrix.
     Many of the physicians' remedies for ailments from early days have been rocks or minerals in some form.
     The Geologist studies the rocks and rock layers to ascertain the earth's makeup and is able to predict where faults lie and where to drill for certain rocks, gems, minerals and oils and gasses.
     The Paleontologist can determine the age of earth layers by the fossil remains in the layers of shale and limestone.
     We, as Rockhounds, just enjoy digging the rocks and stones for a mineral collection, a fossil collection or to create new beauty from a rock or stone by cutting it and polishing it and exhibiting it in a jewelry setting.

Rockhound Rambling l/86 via Napa Gems 1/05.

  Table of Contents.

ANOTHER BAD IDEA FROM THE GOVERNMENT?

     The National Park Service, at the request of Congress, is considering converting a major portion of the Angeles National Forest to National Park Service jurisdiction.
     What does this mean for you as a person who recreates in the forest? The answer to this may be found in your opinion of the NPS's management of, for example, Yosemite, or Death Valley, or Sequoia National Park, or Joshua Tree National Monument, or the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. Having the ANF turned over to NPS could mean more and higher fees, more "private concessions" (i.e., campgrounds you previously camped at for free or for a small fee) contracted out to private companies, the public restricted to concentrated areas, restrictions on travel within the park, restrictions on where and how long you can camp, expensive "entrance fees", trails and entire areas closed to equestrians (as happened in Joshua Tree) with no end in sight to the restrictions on our access and DEGRADATION to the forest from COMMERCIAL CONCESSIONS (recall Edward Abbey's prophesy about the commercialization of public lands in his book "Desert Solitaire").
     Not only is this a bad idea, it's expensive too. The Angeles National Forest is ALREADY in the public domain, overseen by a governmental agency; changing the jurisdiction to NPS will cost millions--money better spent on catching up on the backlog of trail maintenance, for instance.
     Speak up now while there's still a chance to stop it.
     This bad idea was proposed by Congressperson Hilda Solis. The original "study", P.L. 108-042, can be found at: http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/getdoc.cgi?dbname=108_cong_public_laws&docid=f:publ042.108.

From Patti Tostenson and a friend on the internet.
Del Air Bulletin - 5/05.

  Table of Contents.

Test Your Gemstone Genius
By Sharon Goldman Edry.

JUNE 13, 1997 - How well do you know your gemstone lore? If you want to communicate the romance of colored stones to your customers, you'd better know your history, myths and legends. Here is a challenge for you: Can you answer the following gemstone questions? Take the quiz and check your answers at the end (no peeking!) to see what kind of gemstone expert you really are.
1. What gemstone name comes from the Greek term meaning "without wine"?

a. ruby,

b. tourmaline,

c. amethyst,

d. emerald.

2. What gemstone was believed to cure bleeding?

a. sapphire,

b. topaz,

c. emerald,

d. ruby.

3. What gem was discovered by the Egyptians in 3000 B.C.?

a. emerald,

b. turquoise,

c. zircon,

d. peridot.

4. Which stone was most often mistaken in the past for other gemstones such as ruby?

a. red beryl,

b. spinel,

c. topaz,

d. garnet.

5. Which gemstone is also sometimes known as olivine?

a. peridot,

b. tourmaline,

c. emerald,

d. jade.

6. Which stone was worn by Scandinavian women to protect their hair from going gray?

a. garnet,

b. pearl,

c. opal,

d. onyx.

7. What gem is often ground up and sold as medicine components?

a. aquamarine,

b. pearl,

c. coral,

d. amethyst.

8. Which stone inspired Hindu legends that said the gem was actually solidified moonbeams that reached earth?

a. onyx,

b. white sapphire,

c. moonstone,

d. ruby.

9. Which gemstone was fashioned into a lens used to view the gladiators, because he found the color to be calming?

a. amethyst,

b. sapphire,

c. aquamarine,

d. emerald.

10. Which gemstone was named in honor of the birthday of the Russian czar?

a. alexandrite,

b. iolite,

c. kunzite,

d. agate.

Answers: 1. (c); 2. (d); 3. (b); 4. (b); 5. (a); 6. (c); 7. (b); 8. (c);
9. (d); 10. (a).

If you had 8-10 correct answers: Gemstone Genius. You really know your gemstone trivia! Your customers will be beguiled by your colorful gem anecdotes, which will translate into big, bigger and the biggest sales.

From the Palomar Gem - 4/04 via The Petrified Log 4/05.

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SHOW DATES.

Virgin Valley Gem, Mineral, Fossil and Jewelry Show - An invitation is extended to your club to attend the 1st annual Virgin Valley gem, mineral, fossil and jewelry show over the Labor Day week end to be held at the Opal Negra Mine millsite.
     There is no fee to buyers or sellers.
     There is plenty of space to set up a booth or to tailgate.
     Free camping is available at the nearby CCC campground. Or, if needed, there are full hookups at the Royal Peacock's RV Park at http://www.royalpeacock.com/mining01.htm. Reservations are recommended.
     If you have ever wanted to dig at one of the world famous opal fee digs here's another reason to go!
     More information is available on the Opal Negra Mine website, including maps, driving directions and links; at this address:
     http://thegemdealer.com/gemshow/virginvalleygemshow.htm.
     For questions not answered at the web site contact Scott Ryals at gemshow@thegemdealer.com or call 1-800-803-7601.
     Hope to see you there!
          Scott Ryals,
          Opal Negra Mining.

2005 CFMS SHOWS.

MAY 20-22; ANDERSON, CA - Superior CA Gem & Mineral Association, Shasta County Fairgrounds, Five Miles South of Redding. Hours: Fri. & Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4. Steve Puderbaugh (530) 365-4000.
MAY 28-30; WEAVERVILLE, CA - Trinity Gem & Mineral Society, Lowden Park. Hours: Sat. & Sun. 10-5, Mon. 10-4.
JUNE 4-5; GLENDORA, CA - Glendora Gems, Goddard Middle School, 859 E. Sierra Madre. Hours: Sat. 10-5; Sun. 10-4. Bonnie Bidwell (626) 963-4638. Email: Ybidwell2@aol.com.
JUNE 4-5; LA HABRA, CA - North Orange Community Center, 101 W. La Habra Blvd. Hours: 10-5 both days. Don Warthon (626) 330-8974. Email: warthen@earthlink.net.
JUNE 10-12; ROSEVILLE, CA - CFMS & Roseville Gem & Mineral Blast, Roseville (Placer County) Fairgrounds, 800 All American City Blvd. (916) 630-1000. Web Site: www.rockrollers.com. Show: www.rockrollers.com/show.html.
JUNE 19-20; CAYUCOS, CA - San Luis Obispo Gem & Min. Club. Cayucos Veteran's Hall (@the end of the pier in Cayucos). Hours: Sun. 9-6, Mon. 9-5. Bob Hurless (805) 772-7160. Email: sandlehurless@yahoo.com.
AUGUST 5, 6, 7; NIPOMA, CA - Orcutt Mineral Society, St. Joseph's Church, 298 S. Thompson Avenue. Hours: 9-5 Daily. Lucky Virgin (805) 929-4525. Email: lvirgin@impulse.net.
SEPTEMBER 17-18; PASO ROBLES, CA - Santa Lucia Rockhounds, Pioneer Park and Museum, 2010 Riverside Ave. Hours: 10-5 both days. Joyce Baird (805) 462-9544. Email: liljoysee@webtv.net.
SEPTEMBER 17-18; REDWOOD CITY, CA - Sequoia Gem & Mineral Society, Community Activity Building, 1400 Rosevelt Ave. Hours: 10-5 both days. Carol Corden (650) 776-5990. Email: ccorden@earthlink.net. Preston Bingham (650) 368-6351.
SEPTEMBER 24; LOS ALTOS, CA - Peninsula Gem & Geology Society, Rancho Shopping Center, Corner of Foothill Expressway & Springer Road. Hours: 9:30-4:45. Dave Smith (650) 967-7392. Email: rdsmeks@sbcglobal.net.
SEPTEMBER 25-26; DOWNEY, CA - Delvers Gem & Mineral Society, Downey Women's Club. 9813 Paramount Blvd. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4. Earl Liston (562) 865-1348. Email: ejliston5@juno.com.
OCTOBER 8-9; TRONA, CA - Searles Lake Gem & Mineral Society, 13337 Main Street. Hours: Sat. 7:30-5, Sun. 7:30-4. Bonnie Fairchild (760) 372-5356. Email: jbfairchild@verizon.net.
OCTOBER 15-16; ANDERSON, CA - Shasta Gem & Mineral Society, Shasta District Fairgrounds. Five Miles South of Redding. Hours: 10-5 both days. Alex Stoltz (530) 474-4400.
OCTOBER 22-23; SANTA ROSA, CA - Santa Rosa Mineral & Gem Society, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, 1351 Maple Avenue. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Shirley Mottson (707) 795-1730.
OCTOBER 22-23; STOCKTON, CA - Stockton Lapidary & Mineral Club 54th "Earth's Treasures Show". San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, Bldg. 2, 1658 South Airport Way (corner of Charter Way & Airport Way). Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Laure Haines (209) 838-0108 or Jim Dunlap. Email: jimsopals@Comcast.net.
NOVEMBER 11-13; SACRAMENTO, CA - Sacramento Mineral Society, Scottish Rite Temple, 615 H Street. Hours: Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4. George Sterpka (916) 984-9730. Email: sterpka@comcast.net.

AMERICAN FEDERATION / REGIONAL
SHOW SCHEDULE - 2005.

CALIFORNIA FEDERATION,
June 10-12, Roseville, CA.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN,
June 17-19, Colorado Springs, CO.

NORTHWEST,
August 5-7, Albany, OR.

MIDWEST / AFMS,
August 16-21, St. Louis, MO.

SOUTH CENTRAL FEDERATION,
December 2-4, Austin, TX.

  Table of Contents.

EDITOR'S NOTE:

     Just for the record any unsigned articles are by the Editor. We all enjoy articles from you members. Why not make a New Year's resolution to write up your thoughts about the show, vacation experiences, rock-collecting trips, Great Finds or anything of interest to share. Contributions from you members keep the Bulletin interesting and I thank you for them.

Trili - The Editor's Pet Trilobite.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

CFMS SHOW IN ROSEVILLE.

Time is Short!!!
By Gloria Tomczyk, 2005 Show Chair.

I would like to offer an update on the progress of the CFMS show, with the hope that ALL of you reading this will attend. If you haven't done so yet, please submit your reservations for camping or for the Best Western in Roseville, if you plan to stay in town. Remember to mention the Gem Show to get the reduced rate. Same goes for the banquet, this is one banquet that you may wish you had attended when all is said and done! There is still time! If you are coming just for the Directors meeting, please make sure that you have submitted your show registration form(s). This needs to be done so that we know you are attending, and it allows us to have a pass ready for you at the gate, allowing you into the meeting room and show, later if you choose. (You can download forms from the website at www.rockrollers.com/.)

As I have mentioned before, the show keeps improving with each passing week. We now have added a 70,000-year-old standing Cave Bear from Russia to the show lineup of attractions, thanks to perseverance by the show committee, and the willingness of the owner to display it. This new addition will be a very nice compliment to the various museum displays already lined up, along with the 5 foot fulgurite and 123 pound meteorite.

Are there any pin collectors out there??? If you are one of those folks that love to display these unique little things all over your vest, well the Roseville Rock Rollers have got you covered! At this show we will offer pins as a remembrance of the "Roseville Gem & Mineral Blast 2005." Quantities will be limited so make sure you pick one up when picking up your admission packet upon entering the show. And by the way, what better way could there be to show off that lovely new pin except to be on your club's vest! With that said, I offer a challenge to each and every one of the CFMS Directors and Board Members out there. The challenge is: Fly your club's colors, by wearing your vest and nametag, Show pin or no Show pin! Let's have a colorful show this year in Roseville! I have gone to shows in the past where visiting club members were clearly represented, by visitors wearing their jackets from all over California. Attend the meeting on Saturday, collect your ticket stub for the drawing on the gold nugget, and lets see your colors!

CFMS Newsletter May 2005.

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EDUCATIONAL CORNER.

Definition of the Month.

Optical calcite - A crystalline form of calcite exhibiting exceptional clarity and a well-pronounced optical quality known as "double refraction". Calcite is a common mineral often referenced by its chemical name "calcium carbonate". High quality optical calcite is relatively rare in nature.

In a petrographic microscope, a double wedge of optical calcite is the key ingredient that enables thin slices of rock (called "thin-sections") to be analyzed under "cross polarization". This is a method of detailed visual analysis of minerals. When polarized light is transmitted through a specific transparent mineral in thin-section, an "interference figure" emerges in the microscope as a cross-shaped diffraction pattern. Each mineral has a unique diffraction pattern. As a result, the geologist can identify the mineral by its pattern. Polarized light, diffracted by the calcite wedge, will also create prismatic colors in all transparent minerals. This will be seen in the petrographic microscope as a mosaic of colors, each color representing a unique mineral.

During World War II, optical calcite was applied to American made antiaircraft gun sights and to bomb sights for improving accuracy. In gun sights, calcite wafers were affixed inside the optics enabling the gunner to see concentric rings instead of the conventional "cross hairs". This sight became known as the "Optical Ring Sight" (ORS), developed by the Polaroid Corporation. After the development of the ORS, the U.S. Government was urgently seeking deposits of optical calcite. Edwin Land of the Polaroid Corporation personally contacted Professor Harry Berman, a mineralogist at Harvard University, to locate a source for the crystals. Berman immediately checked the mineral collection at Harvard and found a calcite crystal that appeared to have the superior optical qualities. Fortunately, the specimen was properly identified as to the location and the donor who gave it to Harvard. The specimen was originally donated by John Hilton of Thermal, California. Hilton collected it from an area well known among mineral collectors and rockhounds. The deposit became known as the Palm Wash Calcite Field or the Hilton Deposit. The calcite crystals occurred in pockets and veins placed by hydrothermal fluids along faults within the Palm Springs Formation. This deposit is in the Colorado Desert area of eastern San Diego County, within the present-day Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Mining production at this deposit ended in 1944. Approximately 10,500 pounds of crystals were sent to the Polaroid Corporation during the War. This is an example of how one mineral collector, John Hilton, shared information learned from other collectors and in doing so, made a significant contribution to the War effort in the early 1940s.

Reference: "Visit a Historic Mine in Anza-Borrego State Park", an article by Robert Beard, Rock & Gem Magazine, April, 2002.

The "Definition of the Month" features words related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history. Written by Steve Mulqueen for the VGMS, May 2005.

Illustration of the Month.



Coenothyris vulgaris: A nautilus fossil.

A pen & ink illustration from the book "Lehrbuch der Geologischen Formationskunde", by Dr. Emanuel Kayser, printed by Verlag von Ferdinand Enke, Stuttgart, Germany, 1902, page 289, illustration #9.

The "Illustration of the Month" features a drawing, sketch, pen & ink rendering, engraving print or any form of art rediscovered in books, maps, manuscripts and many other sources related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history. This illustration was chosen for its educational content by Steve Mulqueen for the VGMS, May 2005.

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VGMS PHOTO ALBUM:
2005 Show - Some of Our Dealers - All Photos by Editor.
Meet Some of Our Demo/Dealers In A Future Issue!

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Camp Paradise 2005 Application.

Go to "applications/Camp-paradise-application-2005.pdf". NOTE: You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view and print it. If you do not have the Reader you may download it free from the Adobe Web Site.

Proceed as follows to get the Reader:
     Copy everything between the following parentheses, paste it in the address line of your web browser, and press the ENTER button on your keyboard. Alternately, you may type the address in the browser and press ENTER - (http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep.html). It will take you to a page on the Adobe Web Site. Follow the directions on this page to get the free Reader.

  Table of Contents.

SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

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