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The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. (VGMS)
Rockhound Rambling
September 2009.

Rockhound Rambling Photo of the Month.
This month's photo is by Ed Clark.

Description: Photograph of a petrographic thin section through a polarizing microscope of an olivine gabbro specimen. Gabbro is dense, greenish, or dark-colored and contains pyroxene, plagioclase, amphibole, and olivine (olivine gabbro when olivine is present in a large amount).

See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gabbro.

The Rockhound Rambling Picture of the Month is photographed by a VGMS Member. The subject may be a specimen in their own collection or a rock, mineral, gem or lapidary creation of others, accompanied by subject documentation. Selection is at the discretion of the editor. Submit candidate photos to vgms_editor@roadrunner.com.

If proper credit is given permission is granted to quote any item.

Exchange Editors: email to vgms_editor@roadrunner.com or mail to 3063 Bayshore Avenue, Ventura, CA 93001-4125.

For the record, any unsigned articles are by the Editor.

Table of Contents.

• PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE;
• PROGRAM REVIEW & SCHEDULE;
• UPCOMING VGMS EVENTS;
• HOSPITALITY;
• BIRTHDAYS;
• GEMS FROM THE PAST;
• MEETING MINUTES;
• MEMBERSHIP;
• CHIPS AND BOULDERS;
• FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN;
• HINTS AND TIPS;
• LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE;
• EDUCATIONAL CORNER;
• FUN STUFF - CANADIAN MINERAL WORD SEARCH;
• FEDERATION NEWS;
• MINERAL MYTHS & MEANINGS - QUARTZ;
• LET'S GO TO A SHOW.

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE.

Need Officers, Need Rocks, Need You at Forthcoming Events!
Thank you Andy, Lowell, and Krishna for stepping forward so promptly and volunteering at our August meeting to serve as our Nominating Committee, charged with soliciting officer candidates for 2010. Now it's up to each and every one of us to help them by stepping forward and volunteering just as promptly when asked to consider taking a club office in 2010. Please be generous with your time and talents.

Speaking of being generous, the program for our September 23 meeting will be a Silent Auction. Our success will depend on the quality of material each and every one of us brings to the table. So look through your rock pile, sort through your mineral or fossil collection to find a nice duplicate piece, pick out a nice cab you've polished, and bring them to donate to the auction. And don't forget to bring your wallet or checkbook; then, bid high, bid often! Our club coffers have been drained due to ongoing development and maintenance work at our Ojai clubhouse. We need an infusion of income to allow us to continue the work. Let's make this our best Silent Auction ever.

Looking further at my calendar, I invite volunteers to help represent VGMS at the Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center on October 3, and I hope you'll cook up something good to bring to our Annual Fall Picnic on October 17. You'll find full articles on both events in this issue of Rockhound Rambling.

And speaking of Rockhound Rambling, we welcome Mary back from her varied travels and rambling-it's a pleasure to see her fine efforts on the bulletin once again!

Jim Brace-Thompson.

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PROGRAM REVIEW & SCHEDULE.

July and August Program: The Great Desert Railway Race.
I hoped you enjoyed the two parts of the movie, "The Great Railroad Race". From the woman who showered in the street to the tycoons who backed out on their word, there were memorable moments all throughout the saga. I would like to thank Steve Mulqueen for providing the video.

September Program - "Alms for the Club" (otherwise known as the Silent Auction).
Our Club is an awesome club, but it doesn't run on cold fusion. It takes money for our club to operate. We have expended quite a bit to salvage, store and move materials needed to run our show, and to clean, rehabilitate and furnish our incredible new museum/workshop.

That said, we have had tremendous help in all sorts of areas from donation of equipment, tools and materials, and invaluable donation of member elbow grease and talent. We thank you one and all.

Now we have a need to refill our coffers. To accomplish this, at our next silent auction, we need memorable material. We have seen some wonderful material in past auctions, and the Board is grateful for it. We now request something really "great." Cabs and polished material sell well, as do dinosaur bone and jewelry. I challenge you all to bring something that you believe will bring a price of $10 or more. What are you willing to donate for our mutual cause?

There will be a prize for the person who provides the piece that generates the highest revenue. (The only promise about the prize is that it won't be made in China, but hopefully I can drum up something unusual.)

Lowell Foster.

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UPCOMING VGMS EVENTS.

If omitted, time, location or address can be found on the VGMS Info Page.
(Close the new window to return here.)

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HOSPITALITY.

The August meeting refreshments were provided by Diane Cook, Lowell Foster and Sharon Cunningham. Thank you.

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BIRTHDAYS.

We wish all of you good health and hope you have a very, very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!

Chrysolite.
This mineral is known among the gems by many names. It is often called chrysoberyl by jewelers, while the true chrysoberyl is called chrysolite. It is also known by different names, according to its color, it being called peridot when of a deep olive-green, olivine when of a yellowish-green, and chrysolite when of a lighter or golden-yellow color. The [Greek origin] name chrysolite means golden stone. Again, some so-called emeralds are really chrysolite, a notable case being those shown in connection with the Three Magi in the Cathedral at Cologne. The so-called "Oriental chrysolite" is yellowish-green sapphire; "Ceylonese chrysolite" is olive-green tourmaline; "Saxon chrysolite" is greenish-yellow topaz; "false chrysolite" is moldavite; "Cape chrysolite" is prehnite, and so on. The various designations have evidently arisen by confounding different minerals similar in color, but it is an easy matter in any case to distinguish the minerals by a test of their physical and chemical properties. One feature distinguishing chrysolite from most other gems is its relatively low hardness, which is 6f. It will thus scratch feldspar, but is scratched by quartz and most other gems. It is relatively heavy; its specific gravity being between 3.3-3.4. Its luster, while vitreous, has a slightly oily character, which can be detected by a little experience. Chrysolite is easily dissolved by the common acids, especially if powdered and warmed. The silica separates in a gelatinous form, which is quite characteristic. In composition it is a silicate of magnesium and iron, the relative percentages of the two latter elements varying. In gem chrysolite the percentage of iron is usually low, and a typical composition would be: silica (41%), magnesia (49.2%), and iron protoxide (9.8%). Before the blowpipe chrysolite whitens, but is generally infusible. It crystallizes in the orthorhombic system, and is hence doubly refracting. The crystals have good cleavage in one direction and partial cleavage in another. The fracture is conchoidal. Chrysolite is a common constituent of eruptive rocks, but in grains too small and too opaque to be used for gems.

Whence the large, transparent pieces of chrysolite used for gems are obtained does not seem to be known. They are reported to come from Levant [Mediterranean lands east of Italy], Burma, Ceylon, Egypt, and Brazil; but the exact locality in [any] of these countries has yet to be ascertained by writers. Kunz states that all the chrysolite sold in modern times is taken out of old jewelry, often two centuries old, so that it is likely that the old localities are either forgotten or exhausted. Recently, however, quite an amount of good chrysolite has come from a locality in Upper Egypt, near the Red Sea, and this is doubtless one of the old sources of supply. The chrysolites at present available are not of very large size, rarely exceeding an inch in diameter. They are, however, of fine color and transparency, and make a desirable gem when not exposed to hard usage. For ring stones they scratch and wear away too easily. Excellent small chrysolites come from Arizona and New Mexico, being found in sand in connection with pyrope garnets. The chrysolite is locally called "Job's tears", on account of its pitted appearance. Chrysolite is an essential constituent of meteorites, and the grains sometimes occur in these bodies of sufficient size and transparency to be cut into gems of about a carat each. Such stones have a peculiar interest on account of their origin.

Chrysolite is frequently mentioned in the Bible and in ancient literature; but it is pretty certain that much of the chrysolite so named was topaz. If this is true, the chrysolite of the ancients was found on the island of Topazios, in the Red Sea. Diodones Siculus said of the stone there that it was not discernible by day, but was bright at night, so it could be seen by patrols. They would cover the luminous spot with a vase, and the next day come and cut out the rock at the place indicated, when, upon polishing, the gem would appear. The name chrysolite was also applied in former times to a number of other yellow gems, such as zircon and beryl, stones of a similar color being then usually classed together. Powdered chrysolite was used as a remedy for asthma, and held under the tongue was believed to lessen thirst in fever.
     Source: http://www.farlang.com/gemstones/farrington-gems-and-gem-minerals/page_150.

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GEMS FROM THE PAST.

A VGMS field trip to the Owlshead Mountains located in the desert southeast of Death Valley in San Bernardino County, CA, 1960. Opal Benson at the door of the camper.
Photo by Bruno Benson.

A VGMS field trip to Boron Dry Lake, Mojave Desert, Kern County, CA, 1962. Boron Dry Lake is famous for petrified wood collecting. Opal Benson at the door of the camper.
Photo by Bruno Benson.

Photos from the Bruno & Opal Benson Collection. All photos Copyright 2009 Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Inc., All Rights Reserved. Photos have been scanned from the original 35 mm color slides. Text written by Steve Mulqueen, September 2009.

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MEETING MINUTES.

The following Meeting Minutes were respectfully submitted by Greg Davis, VGMS Recording Secretary.

VGMS Regular Monthly Meeting;
Wednesday, August 26, 2009:
     The regular monthly meeting of the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society was called to order by President Jim Brace-Thompson at 7:30 PM, on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, at The Ventura Senior Recreation Center.
     Jim introduced visitors and then asked for corrections, if any, to the previously printed board and regular meeting minutes. It was m/s/c to accept the minutes. Members were led in the pledge to the flag.
     Our next big push will be reorganizing the garage at our Clubhouse to maximize storage of show materials. All available weekends will be spent working there in order to vacate the facility in Santa Paula.
Jim Brace-Thompson: A Club picnic has been scheduled for October 17, following the workshop. More details later.
     Jim announced Ventura County Fair winners and that VGMS won the Best Publicity Case award.
     Jim next asked for 2010 nomination committee volunteers. Andy Anderson, Lowell Foster and Shana Juarez volunteered.
     Jim is also looking for help promoting our club during the Wheeler Gorge event on October 3.
Valli Davis: Contact Valli for membership patches and/or name badges. Membership is now at 101 members.
Ron Wise: Future field trips include: October - Trona and back to the desert this fall. Details will follow.
     Another work day is scheduled for September 12 & 13 at our Ojai workshop. Thank you Roy & Frank Boulch, they have put a lot of time into building storage shelves at the garage. Thanks to Andy Anderson who painted the library room.
Nancy Brace-Thompson: The treasurer's report was read and noted that our club is solvent.
Jean Wise: Camp Paradise raffle tickets are still available from the CFMS with the prize being a one week stay at the event. Zzyzx is now filled except for a few RV spaces.
Mary Polacek: The next bulletin won't come out until August as Mary will be taking a well deserved break and vacation.
Michele Quistad presented the Ways & Means raffle prizes to the lucky names drawn.
Lowell Foster presented the second half of the Desert Railroad Race. Next month we'll have a silent auction.
     Refreshments were provided by Diane Cook, Lowell Foster and Sharon Cunningham.
     The next board meeting will be held on September 3, 2009 at The Lexington. The next monthly membership meeting will be held September 23, at The Ventura Senior Recreation Center, 420 E. Santa Clara, Ventura.
     There being no further business, Jim adjourned the meeting at 9:15 PM.

VGMS Board Meeting;
Thursday, September 3, 2009:
Present: Nancy & Jim Brace-Thompson, Ron & Jean Wise, Andy Anderson, Lowell Foster, Valli & Greg Davis.
     The Ventura Gem & Mineral Society Board Meeting for September 3, 2009, was called to order by President Jim Brace-Thompson at 7 PM, at The Lexington, 5440 Ralston in Ventura.
Old business:
Further work at our new workshop will continue on September 12 & 13, starting at 9 AM. Specific areas of concern will be the garage, closet space and museum. October 17 will be our annual picnic following the workshop. Greg continues to pursue the Clubhouse property tax issue with the County.
New business:
Jim Brace-Thompson: Bulletin deadline is September 6. Show publicity goes out this month to magazines and publications for next year's show.
     It was m/s/c to nominate Rob Sankovich for the CFMS Education Through Sharing award.
     The October picnic will be a potluck with the Club providing hotdogs, hamburgers, buns, and bottled water.
     The Wheeler Gorge Open House will be held October 3 this year and Jim is asking for help with a display and publicity for our club during the event.
Nancy Brace-Thompson: The treasurer's report was given. It was m/s/c to accept as written and to pay the ongoing bills.
     Property insurance bill is due and will be paid. Hopefully we'll soon eliminate the extra expense for our Santa Paula storage locker.
Valli Davis: It was m/s/c to accept the membership application of Maria & Timothy McLaughlin.
     Valli suggested we start selling show raffle tickets sooner in the year to help with profits from the event.
Jean Wise: November will be the next Federation meeting. Marion Roberts, of the CFMS, is asking for help from anyone with experience writing grant requests. The CFMS is considering procuring their own land in the future. Please contact Jean or Jim Brace-Thompson if you have expertise in grant writing.
     The CFMS and Camp Paradise would like to thank Frank & Roy Boulch and Jim Brace-Thompson for their help in the donation of chairs.
Ron Wise: Next field trips include September 26 for sand dollars, north of Ojai; October - Trona; November - back to the desert (Hauser beds); December - Ant Hill.
Andy Anderson: It's application time for the Fairgrounds and first deposit will be made soon. Andy has also offered to lead the nominating committee for next year.
     The next general meeting will be September 23, 2009, at 420 E. Santa Clara in Ventura. The next board meeting will be on October 1, 2009, at The Lexington.
     There being no further business, Jim adjourned the meeting at 9:15 PM.

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MEMBERSHIP.

Welcome New Members.

Let's extend a warm welcome to our newest members:

Our 2009 VGMS Scholarship recipient automatically became an honorary member:
     Debra (Debbie) Bereki,
     P.O. Box 390,
     Filmore, CA 93016,
     (805) 524-2471,
     berekid@education.ucsb.edu.

     Timothy and Maria McLaughlin,
     17550 Lanark Street,
     Northridge, CA 91325,
     mfcapurro@aol.com.
     Interests: CMR, CS, F, FP, LJ, MH, SS.

Please add these names and information to your VGMS directory. This gives us 104 members including pebble pups and juniors.

CORRECTION FOR VGMS DIRECTORY: It's been brought to my attention that Shirley Layton's phone number is incorrect in the 2009 directory. Please correct the phone number to read (805) 717-9226.

I have VGMS patches to sell for $7.00 each at our meetings and functions. You may also order a name badge for $9.00. This is an increase to cover actual cost of recent orders for one or two badges. Place your order with me, with specific spelling of your name as you want it to appear on the badge.

We'd sure love to see our newer members become involved in our club including allowing your name to be placed in nomination for one of our leadership positions. We NEED your help. Taking a leadership role is the best way to get to know our members, while providing a much-needed and appreciated service to the club as a whole. It takes a group effort to make a club the great club we all enjoy and the results are well worth it!

Again, welcome to our new members. Thank you for becoming a part of our club. Hope to meet you soon at one of our upcoming events. We look forward to getting to know each other better.

Valli Davis,
Membership Secretary.

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CHIPS AND BOULDERS.

Thank You, Diane, for a Nice Donation.
Thank you to Diane Wondolowski of Carpenteria, who works for the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History. Diane found out about us on our web site and recently donated three wonderful Orthoceras fossil slabs from Morocco that will soon grace our club museum and/or outdoor grounds. They are really big, showy pieces a couple of feet across, and you may see one showing up at a fund-raising club auction, as well!
Jim Brace-Thompson,
Museum Committee.

Annual VGMS Fall Picnic: See You October 17 at the VGMS Clubhouse!
Our regularly scheduled Workshop Day at our Ojai Clubhouse is the third Saturday of each month, so next month that means Saturday, October 17. On that particular day, we invite you to come for the rocks, but stay for the food! The workshop itself will be open for the normal hours of 9:00 AM to Noon, and then the fun continues. We'll be hosting our Annual Fall Picnic. The Club will provide hot dogs, hamburgers, buns, and bottled water. We encourage members to pack along a side dish to share (chips and dip, potato salad, carrot strips, salads, deserts, etc.). In addition, bring your own service of plates, silverware, cups, and napkins. Come share the fun and fellowship and get a glimpse of the continuing improvements being made at our club home.
Jim Brace-Thompson.

Help Promote Our Club and Help the Community at Wheeler Gorge on October 3.
     From 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM on Saturday, October 3, the Wheeler Gorge Visitor Center on Route 33--the "gateway to the Los Padres National Forest"--will hold an open house fundraiser to raise money for improvements to the center, and they've invited various outdoors groups to participate. This includes the three Ventura County gem and mineral societies. If you can spare even an hour that day, I invite and welcome your help during this event.
     They'll have an outdoor space for us to highlight what we do and, hopefully, thereby attract new members. To demonstrate rock grinding, shaping, and polishing, I'll be bringing a Genie, along with Wayne Ehler's framed display of steps in making a cab. I'll also have a small display case, to show our state rock, fossil, mineral, and gemstone. Ahead of the event, I'll be helping Mike Havstad (the organizer) cut five geodes, which they'll be giving out as hourly raffle prizes, using the VGMS club raffle drum. We'll also have our Treasure Chest of tumble-polished stones to let each child go home with a free treasure. The Oxnard club will be bringing a display of "Cinderella Stones" (ugly on the outside, but a beauty on the inside). Rob Sankovich will bring his big pieces cut and polished with an angle grinder, on behalf of the Conejo club. We did this last year, and it was a fun event that attracted a lot of visitors. See you there!
Jim Brace-Thompson.

Support Our Neighboring Clubs: Participate in the Oxnard Club Show!
If you entered a display during the county fair last month, don't pack away your specimens just yet. Or, if you have a new display idea you're considering, here's a chance to try it out! The Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society will be sponsoring their annual show November 21-22 at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard. I encourage VGMS members to enter displays. Set-up for exhibitors takes place Friday, November 20, and the show itself runs 9 AM to 5 PM, Saturday, and 10 AM to 4 PM, Sunday. For further details, check the society web site (www.oxnardgem.com), call Show Chairman Norb Kinsler (805-644-6450), or email your queries to Show_info@oxnardgem.com. Even if you don't enter an exhibit, we encourage all club members to attend the show, shop among their dealers, participate in the silent auctions and kids' events (of which there will be many!), and enjoy the interesting displays. The better our neighboring club shows do, the better the prospects for our own club show next March. So, here's to seeing you in Oxnard!
Jim Brace-Thompson,
OGMS Federation Director.

OGMS October Program: The Undiscovered Gems of Baja.
Brett Johnson, of the Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society, will discuss his many trips to Central Baja. This is a wonderful and beautiful country that has been overlooked by many. The discovery to behold and treasures to find are boundless.

Brett has visited Baja several times over the past three years, and brought back exciting stories and gems to share with you. There will be a photo slide show of his adventures, several samples of the treasures to be found, and an offer to attend him on his next trip south. This will be an exciting and informative evening of beautiful landscapes, colorful people, and priceless discoveries that you too could have.

Come join us on October 7, at 7:30 pm, in the Thousand Oaks Room of the Oxnard Performance Art Center (800 Hobson Way, Oxnard 93030). There will be refreshments, door prizes, and too much fun.
Brett Johnson,
OGMS.

Rock Sale.
A rock hound, William Harris, passed away and his son, Earl, is selling his rocks. Earl does not live nearby, so he only comes one day a month, usually the first Sunday, but not always so. I can't give you an exact time or date if you're interested; however, if you e-mail me, when I get information I'll send it to you. It's $1 a pound. There are lots of rocks and minerals. Earl is in the process of going through all the material, the best stuff is in his house, which will take time to get to. I think it will take months to go through the material available, but the sooner you check it out the better. There's petrified wood nodules, obsidian, agate, quartz crystals, fossils. His yard is over grown and I've only been there once, so it's hard to list everything that's there. Maybe the club will be able to buy some material for club raffles, the silent auction and 2010 Show items. The house is in Santa Paula but Earl lives elsewhere.
Robert Sankovich,
via The Rocky Review, September 2009.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

FIELD TRIPS ARE FUN.

Two Tourmaline Mines in Two Days By Shep Koss & Adam Dean.

Following is a combined, condensed version of multiple field trip reports. Full reports, with photos, may be seen on the CFMS web site.

     You Hounders seem to love tourmaline! After 5 months of planning, Adam, his better half (Teresa Felix), and I (Shep) were pleased to see such a huge crowd turn out for "Two Tourmaline Mines in Two Days." Limited spaces were available; over 60 showed up Saturday, and almost 50 Sunday. There were few no-shows, denying those on the wait list an opportunity. Hounders attended from the Mexican border up to Carson City and Reno. We drove through heavy rain, with many arriving Friday to stay at hotels, casinos, and the Lake Henshaw Resort.
     Saturday weather was perfect for some serious dirt screening: mid-60s, slightly overcast, and a nice breeze. We eagerly greeted friends who had converged on The Oceanview Mine in Pala to sign in and pay fees. After an orientation with helpful tips by mine owner Jeff Swanger, we were off and digging at the rich tailings. Shovels and rock moved in every direction. Elbow-to-elbow, we were like ferrets on steroids, hauling off bucket after bucket to sift through for colorful gems. And, boy, were they found!! Everything from small, gemmy pink and green chips to large, finger-sized crystals. Many found walnut-sized pieces of gemmy green & pink tourmalines, kunzites, quartz crystals and beryls, including a sweet bi-color beryl going from light blue on one side to pink on the other. Jeff told Ellen Moe of the Culver City club that he had spent most of Friday driving his skip loader all over Chief Mountain getting grade-A tailings from several mines--the Elizabeth R, the Chief, and the Oceanview. Ellen had been to the Oceanview 6 times in the last year, and she reports the tailings this day had the most variety and the most goodies. She was growing a little frustrated finding mainly tourmaline chips and spodumene crystals until a perfect 5-inch quartz point popped out of the pile. In addition, she was filling her "give-away bucket" with quartz chunks, schorl and other specimens to use for the Culver City kids' program when Jeff walked by, glanced in, and asked why she would want to give away a doubly terminated, bicolored beryl (aquamarine and morganite) with small quartz crystals on the base. The colors were pale, so Ellen just thought it was ugly quartz! Rudy and Hannah Herbert of the Orange Belt club found 3 large nice tourmalines early in the day. I (Shep) found my best piece to date: a complete tourmaline crystal with clevelandite at the base, twinning and terminated in an eye-clean green gemmy portion with a thin blue cap weighing in at 61.7 grams. Others found even larger crystals. Michelle Patrick estimates buckets weighed 10-20 pounds, depending on how many large pieces of rock you picked up, and she confirms after 20 of those buckets, shoulders begin to ache! To alleviate some of that ache and make the trip more enjoyable, Jeff gave free raffle prizes to lucky the CFMS members ranging from rough to faceted gems to a pink-and-green tourmaline butterfly pendant. Thanks, Jeff!! Jeff also led 3 tours throughout the day of the working mine for anyone needing a break from digging. Jeff extends a welcome to anyone who would like to come back anytime by making reservations at www.digforgems.com. For the record, the facilities were very clean and the entire day was well managed by a friendly, helpful Oceanview team.
     For those camping at Lake Henshaw Resort, I suffered with you! Whoda thunk there'd be hundreds of Royal Ranger Christian Scouts on their revivalist retreat with stages, bands and sermons lasting into the night? Thankfully, they were MUCH quieter late Saturday night than Friday. Beautiful campgrounds, though, with cabins, RV parking, and developed campgrounds for tents with a thick canopy of trees.
     Also good news: that's where the Himalaya Mine holds their digs, trucking in tailings. Owner Chris Rose came in from his Oregon Spectrum Mine to meet us at the café near Lake Henshaw. Despite a somewhat warmer morning, once again we were ferrets on steroids, quickly going through truckload after truckload of dirt searching for gems. We're not sure Chris and his staff were ready for 44 serious screeners plus about another dozen walk-ins (no reservations are needed for the Himalaya). Since the pile of dirt was disappearing quickly, a dump truck with fresh tailings from the hill near the mine arrived about 11:00. But, by lunch, we had that pile down to the parking lot. Another dump truck came after a lunch break, and the guys barely had time to empty it before buckets were being filled again. Several finger-sized tourmaline crystals were found along with nice pencil tourmalines. At this site, children were finding some of the best pieces, so parents were offering to rent them out to people who weren't having luck! Chris also had free raffles, ranging from large bags of unsorted tailings to rough to faceted gems to jewelry. While enduring a moderate wait for the last truck, Chris went above and beyond, offering more raffle prizes: cut tourmaline and sunstones, nice tourmaline specimens, and rough pink opal. It seems half of our people won prizes. But we also found material! Michelle and others felt that the tailings from this mine included lots more rock with less gem material per bucket, but that the gems found were truly beautiful. She reports finding a gem-quality chunk of pink tourmaline that one of the helpers told her could be cut into a 7-carat stone. Many gemmy, facetable pieces like these were found by others, along with more fingersized crystals. Ellen reported her best find was a fist-sized schorl, found on the road before screening even started! Even at day's end, as we were packing to leave, a lone woman named Bonnie was killing time by sitting and sifting through the skimpy remains of the tailings pile when we heard her call out, "Is this anything?" We came over to look, and some of us said "Nah, toss it," hoping she would. It was a gemmy, 75-carat eye-clean green crystal cross section they valued at $10/carat, as-is. Congrats to her persistence!! All-in-all, this trip left many happy hounders and was a success. Check out Robyn Hawk's blog for a trip report & pics: http://flyviewsandreviews.blogspot.com/search?q=Robyn+Hawk.
          From Shep, happy hunting, and from Adam, best wishes and better stones!

Tri-Club Field Trips 2009. *
     The field trips listed below are tentative, they might change. All are Tri-Club field trips (exceptions noted) with either Conejo, Oxnard or Ventura leading.

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

     2009 has been nice, good weather. Now is a good time to go on field trips. It will get cooler as the months go by. There are going to be field trips for everyone. We'll have some close to home, and others out of state. We'll have easy trips and more difficult trips (requiring chisels and sledges). There is something for everyone, hopefully. We are getting bigger turnouts for field trips. The September field trip to Ojai is mostly an easy field trip; except the walk uphill is 1.5 miles. I will look into it and see if I can get the key to the gate from the forest ranger, but I doubt I will get it (it used to be a lock combination and you could get the combo).
     Please let us know if you are going to attend, e-mail or call us. The weather can change, and if we don't know you are going, we won't be able to contact you if the field trip is canceled. I have a new truck, a white Ford F250 four wheel drive, crew cab. If you are looking for me, look for my truck.

Contacts: Robert Sankovich, Conejo/Ventura Clubs, 805-494-7734, rmsorca@adelphia.net; Mike Miller, Conejo Club,
805-498-9586; Ron Wise, Ventura/Oxnard Clubs, 805-794-0737, clintwise@hotmail.com.

Saturday, September 26th - Sand Dollar Fossils, Ojai, Pine Mountain area.
We will be looking for sand dollars, oyster fossils and gypsum. The sand dollars are the size of a dime to a quarter, smaller than the Somis sand dollars. They can be found along the service road in road cuts and in the ravine below. The oysters are in the same area. The gypsum is close by, in seams 1/4" to 1", some with nice clarity. We will be parking along Hwy 33 and then walking in. It's a dirt service road, Gypsum Mine Road, all uphill 1.5 miles. This might not be a good field trip for little kids or if you can't walk long distances. The good news is that it's all downhill when we leave! Bring water and a hat. It should be nice weather this time of year, but it can be hot or cool.
Directions: NORTH on US-101, to Ventura, EXIT onto Hwy 33 toward Ojai, continue on Hwy 33 toward Ojai for about 11 miles. Turn LEFT onto Baldwin Road/Hwy 150 (toward Lake Casitas/Santa Barbara). Go 0.3 mile; turn RIGHT onto La Luna Avenue (second road on right). Drive NORTH for about 2 miles. At the crest of the road (third stop sign), turn LEFT onto Maricopa Hwy/Hwy 33 (WATCH FOR CROSS TRAFFIC). Continue NORTH on Maricopa Hwy for about 28 miles. Watch for turnouts on both sides of the road. You will see my white Ford F-250 truck with a CGMC sign. This is where we will park and then walk 1.5 miles up Gypsum Mine Road (Forest Route 6NO6) to the collecting area. I would suggest carpooling if you can. It's 41.2 Miles from 101/33 to pullouts/parking.
Meeting: Saturday, September 26, 9 AM. We will meet at the pullouts before the hike. There will be a short briefing of the site. Please sign the release form to participate in the field trip. This is an easy access, but uphill walk. You might find fragments along the ravine and creek near where we will be parking, but the best stuff is up the hill.
Tools: Collecting bags, buckets, day pack, digging tools, rock pick, pry bar, eye protection, gloves, shovel, wide brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and newspaper for wrapping fossils. Bring drinking water, lunch or snacks.

Upcoming 2009 Field Trips:
          October - Trona Gem O Rama; Pink Halite, Hanksite.
          October - Bishop area; Ammonites fossils or minerals and crystals.
          November - Somis; Fossils, Sand dollar, Clams, Gastropod fossils.
          November - Wiley's Well; Geodes, Nodules, Chalcedony, Petrified Iron Wood, Agate.
          December - Ant Hill; Shark Teeth Fossils.
     The Field Trip e-mail list is working. Members get current and new information as I finish it. I get field trip information from other clubs at different times during the month, some with too short of notice for me to put in our bulletin. I will send direct monthly information, maps on club field trips, and updates on weather, other last minute factors that can affect field trips. If you want to sign up, no e-mail addresses will be printed, posted anywhere. Send me your e-mail addresses to mine below. I also updated the field trip information on the Conejo web site - www.cgamc.org. The information is current and I'll keep updating as I add field trips.
     I am open to any places members are interested in. I'm always researching sites.
Robert Sankovich.

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HINTS AND TIPS.

Q & A On Silversmithing Torches.

Q: We intend to now expand our love of rockhounding to beginning silversmithing. With money being tight on us "fixed income" types, I have to be frugal. Today we were in Home Depot and I spotted a small brazing/soldering/VERY light cutting torch for $50 bucks! It uses MAPP Gas & Oxygen. Would this set-up work for working with silver? THANKS for any help as I must sign this: I DON'T HAVE A CLUE!

A: Hi Frank, This torch would not be a good torch for Silversmithing. I do have it because I try to have every torch. This torch is just about worthless for anything. The oxygen tanks empty very quickly if you are using any kind of flame at all. Right next to it you will find the torch that I have taught with, and have recommended for over 35 years. It is the best torch for Silversmithing and it only cost about $13 to $15. It is the regular propane torch, and may have the Bernzomatic name on it. Seriously, this is the best torch for Silversmithing, especially beginners, because of the cost. The tanks are $4.00 each and will last most beginners months. You can find photos of it on my web site - learnsilver.com. All jewelry on my site was made using these propane torches. Most of the jewelry was made by beginning students and is their first projects made during a one or two day class. It is cheap; the gas is cheap; it is safe; and it has the right low oxygen flame for Silversmithing. You do not want to introduce oxygen while Silversmithing, so forget about any torch that uses any oxygen supply. Atmospheric air/acetylene torches, especially a Smith Handi-Heat, or Rio Grande's Silversmithing torch, are really the best for Silversmithing, if you want to spend $250 to $300. Many new users of the propane torch complain about the weight and the fluctuations of the flame when the torch is turned over for soldering. It is a "Plumber's" torch, and will fluctuate when turned over to solder. However, this is not a problem, if you use it correctly and adjust to a 1/4-inch flame before turning it over, and then adjust the flame after it is turned over, pointing at your charcoal block. As far as being heavy, I have taught many seventh grade girls to do Silversmithing with this torch. Just last Spring, I had a 10 year old girl, in my two day Beginning Silversmithing Class in Corpus Christi, use this torch to make a very nice ring. She did not complain once about how heavy, cumbersome, or anything about this torch. I also teach that if you have the torch on a piece for more than thirty to sixty seconds for each solder joint, you are not soldering properly.
     Recently, I was given a torch sold by Euro-Tool. After 35 years of recommending the Bernzomatic propane torch, I am recommending their SOL310 Jumbo Flame. Rio Grande is selling this torch as item #500-086, Large Butane Torch. Before ordering this torch, call them and ask them if this is the Euro-Tool Torch. It was $39.95 when I checked. It uses butane (which will always be available as long as there are smokers in the world). I have had many students use this torch in the past six months and they have loved it. It has a larger flame than any butane torch that I have purchased at Lowe's, Ace Hardware, Home Depot, Bed and Bath, and kitchen stores. It has a flame large enough to make large bracelets in my Advanced Class, which you can see on my site. It also has a larger storage capacity than any butane torch that I have tried in the past. It is lighter; makes a 90 degree bend for the nozzle; does not fluctuate like the propane torch; is somewhat inexpensive; has a self lighting feature; and is safe to use. I decided not to put it into my books or videos because I do not know if it will be available in the future. The propane torch has been around for fifty years or more and I believe it will be sold for many more years, but this torch is new and may not be. I would buy one of these for sure. I even recommend that my students buy two of them, just in case they do not last very long. I have used two of these in my classes during the last six months, which most likely means they have been used more than most people will use them. The only problem I have had with them is that the small brass nozzle has come loose and fallen out of the torch. It is easy to put back into place with pliers and "jammed" back into place. I have let Euro-Tool know about this problem, but at the same time told them that I had just thrown these torches into the tool boxes, and really did treat them rougher than anyone else would. They are looking into it.
          By Don Norris via Yahoo Group LA-ROCKS posting, 1/19/2009 (edited).

The club presents these hints and tips for informational purposes only and does not specifically endorse or profess first-hand use or experience with any or all. As always, be aware of your situation, knowledge level and comfort zone before attempting anything new. When in doubt, stop! Get help before you need it.

Keep a log in your shop. Document your techniques and inspirations. You will come up with a journal full of useful tips, and maybe even an educational article or two!! Email hints and tips to vgms_editor@roadrunner.com.

Let us hear your good ideas!

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LET'S BE SAFE OUT THERE.

Thirteen Things Your Burglar Won't Tell You:

1. Of course I look familiar. I was here just last week cleaning your carpets, painting your shutters, or delivering your new refrigerator.
2. Hey, thanks for letting me use the bathroom when I was working in your yard last week. While I was in there, I unlatched the back window to make my return a little easier.
3. Love those flowers. That tells me you have taste ... and taste means there are nice things inside. Those yard toys your kids leave out always make me wonder what type of gaming system they have.
4. Yes, I really do look for newspapers piled up on the driveway. And I might leave a pizza flyer in your front door to see how long it takes you to remove it.
5. If it snows while you're out of town, get a neighbor to create car and foot tracks into the house. Virgin drifts in the driveway are a dead giveaway.
6. If decorative glass is part of your front entrance, don't let your alarm company install the control pad where I can see if it's set. That makes it too easy.
7. A good security company alarms the window over the sink. And the windows on the second floor, which often access the master bedroom-and your jewelry. It's not a bad idea to put motion detectors up there too.
8. It's raining, you're fumbling with your umbrella, and you forget to lock your door - understandable. But understand this: I don't take a day off because of bad weather.
9. I always knock first. If you answer, I'll ask for directions somewhere or offer to clean your gutters. (Don't take me up on it.)
10. Do you really think I won't look in your sock drawer? I always check dresser drawers, the bedside table, and the medicine cabinet.
11. Here's a helpful hint: I almost never go into kids' rooms.
12. You're right: I won't have enough time to break into that safe where you keep your valuables. But if it's not bolted down, I'll take it with me.
13. A loud TV or radio can be a better deterrent than the best alarm system. If you're reluctant to leave your TV on while you're out of town, you can buy a $35 device that works on a timer and simulates the flickering glow of a real television. (Find it at faketv.com.)

Eight More Things A Burglar Won't Tell You:

1. Sometimes, I carry a clipboard. Sometimes, I dress like a lawn guy and carry a rake. I do my best to never, ever look like a crook.
2. The two things I hate most: loud dogs and nosy neighbors.
3. I'll break a window to get in, even if it makes a little noise. If your neighbor hears one loud sound, he'll stop what he's doing and wait to hear it again. If he doesn't hear it again, he'll just go back to what he was doing. It's human nature.
4. I'm not complaining, but why would you pay all that money for a fancy alarm system and leave your house without setting it?
5. I love looking in your windows. I'm looking for signs that you're home, and for flat screen TVs or gaming systems I'd like. I'll drive or walk through your neighborhood at night, before you close the blinds, just to pick my targets.
6. Avoid announcing your vacation on your Facebook page. It's easier than you think to look up your address.
7. To you, leaving that window open just a crack during the day is a way to let in a little fresh air. To me, it's an invitation.
8. If you don't answer when I knock, I try the door. Occasionally, I hit the jackpot and walk right in.

Sources: Convicted burglars in North Carolina, Oregon, California, and Kentucky; security consultant Chris McGoey, who runs crimedoctor.com; and Richard T. Wright, a criminology professor at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, who interviewed 105 burglars for his book Burglars on the Job.
     Submitted by John R Martin, Palmdale Gem & Mineral Society.

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EDUCATIONAL CORNER.

Definition of the Month.

"A Billion Barrel Field" - A term used in the petroleum industry in reference to an oil field that has produced in excess of 1,000,000,000 barrels of crude oil. A standard measurement of a barrel of crude oil equals 42 U.S. gallons. One billion barrels is a sizable volume of energy resource ( 42 billion U.S. gallons of crude oil).

The Ventura Oil Field's cumulative production of crude oil will total one billion barrels this year. This is estimated to occur sometime in the fourth quarter of 2009. The cumulative production of natural gas for this same period will exceed 2,055,717,000 MCF. "MCF" of natural gas is a standard unit that equals 1,000 cubic feet of gas. At the end of 2008, the cumulative production from the Ventura Field amounted to approximately 994,198,000 barrels of crude oil and 2,053,507,000 MCF of natural gas.

The Ventura Oil Field is located in the hills north of Ventura (also known as the City of San Buenaventura). It is a huge field that extends east to west over 11 miles. There are over a thousand wells in the field.

The Ventura field was discovered by Shell Oil Company in 1919. Initially it was named the "Ventura Avenue Field," as a result of its proximately to the road which bears that name. The discovery of the field spread east and west from the Ventura Avenue. This oil field is known as a deep field, with some wells extending directionally over a depth of three miles. Fluid temperatures are about 220 F within the petroleum reservoir.

Only six other oil fields in California have exceeded the one-billion barrels mark. Here is a list:

Source: California Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources, 2008 Annual Statistics. Text written by Steve Mulqueen, September 2009.

The "Definition of the Month" features words related to geology, paleontology, mining and desert history.

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FUN STUFF - CANADIAN MINERAL WORD SEARCH.

(Webmaster's Note: If you want a printed copy of the following so you can place an order move the mouse cursor to the left of the word 'Attention', push and hold down the left mouse button, and sweep down over the ad with the mouse cursor. This will highlight the contents of the ad. Release the mouse button and, without clicking anywhere else on the page, select EDIT on the browser menu and select COPY. You may then PASTE into any word processor and print in your normal manner. If you highlight too much you may delete the unneeded part with the word processor before printing. This works with any browser I know.)

Do the above or use the link below and just print the page from your browser.

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(Close the new window to return here.)

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FEDERATION NEWS.

Win a Trip to Paradise - and Help the CFMS Endowment Fund!
     As noted last month, Camp Paradise is sponsored by the California Federation of Mineralogical Societies (CFMS). The camp is located near Marysville, CA, and each year there the CFMS offers classes that often include faceting, gem and soft stone carving, lapidary, silversmithing, wire wrapping, glass bead making, and more. The cost is normally $350, which covers a week of classes, meals, and room. In 2010, two sessions will be offered, one May 16-21, the other May 23-28. Here's your chance for a week of Paradise for only five bucks! Simply follow the instructions on the ticket below and mail it with your check of $5.00 for one entry or $20.00 for five chances to win. Deadline for entries is October 31. Clubs that sell $250 worth of tickets are entered into a drawing for a second chance to win!
     Proceeds from this raffle go to support the CFMS Endowment Fund that was formed to provide a stable source of income to financially assist the programs and services the CFMS provides to its member societies. (CFMS is the larger, regional umbrella organization to which clubs like our own VGMS belong.)

     Beyond this individual raffle, CFMS welcomes donations at any time to the Endowment Fund, which for a long time was run by VGMS member Florence Meisenheimer and her late husband, Ray. Donations of any amount are gladly accepted; donations of $25 make you a "Booster" and a CFMS Booster pin will be sent to you; donations of $100 or more qualify you as a "Patron" and you'll receive the Booster pin and also have your name inscribed on the CFMS Patron Honor Plaque. Checks made out to "CFMS Endowment Fund" may be sent to Pat LaRue, CFMS Executive Secretary/Treasurer, P.O. Box 1657, Rialto, CA 92377-1657. All gifts to the CFMS Endowment Fund are tax deductible as allowed by law.
          Info compiled from CFMS Newsletters, submitted by Jim Brace-Thompson.

Birthstone Postage Stamps - Write a Letter to Support the AFMS Effort!
For some time now, Wendell Mohr of the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies (AFMS) has been encouraging rockhounds coast-to-coast to lobby the U.S. Postal Service to create a set of U.S. postage stamps around the theme of the 12 birthstones. Wendell is AFMS Commemorative Stamp Chairman, and many have supported him in his effort. For instance, AFMS Past President Shirley Leeson and President Joy Bourne have spread the word; in fact, Nancy and I spent a little time manning a booth at the 2008 Tucson show, where Shirley and other AFMS officers were diligently distributing literature to all passers-by beneath a large poster depicting the traditional birthstones. And Bob Jones devoted his entire "On the Rocks" column in the July 2009 issue of Rock & Gem magazine to this effort. Bob's excellent article tells where each birthstone can be collected within the United States (e.g., topaz in Utah; diamonds in Arkansas), along with other fascinating tidbits about birthstones. I encourage all VGMS members to help this campaign by sending letters supporting a set of 12 birthstone postage stamps to: Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee, Stamp Development, U.S. Postal Service, 1735 N. Lynn Street - Room 5013, Arlington, VA 22209-6432. Also, see http://www.amfed.org/stamps.htm for helpful info to use in this endeavor. The Citizens' Stamp Advisory Committee receives 50,000 proposals for new stamps or stamp sets each year, so they need to hear from a lot of voices to approve any one proposal. Let's let them hear yours!
     Jim Brace-Thompson, AFMS Juniors Program Chair.

How You Can Get Involved in Land Access Issues.

[Note: The following is excerpted and adapted from Dick Pankey's article "What's Happening with ALAA" that appeared in the September, 2009, AFMS Newsletter.]

     The Omnibus Public Lands Bill passed the House and the Senate, was signed by the President, and is now the law. However, the exact effect on the public, on rockhounds, on our rights to access our Public Lands is still not known. And it will not be determined until each BLM District/office, each Forest Service District/office, each of the other affected governmental agencies interprets these laws and incorporates them into their specific Management Plan. This is where we can still have a say. This is where we can still have a voice and have an affect on the final implementation. How? By becoming involved in the process. By talking with the managers of our Public Lands; by participating in the meetings called for public input; by providing our ideas and wishes with letters, e-mails and telephone calls. By being involved in the process.
     How do we, how do YOU get started? All of us live less than 100 miles from a Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Forest Service or other agency office. Better yet, go to the office that manages the land where your favorite collecting site is. The first step is to get acquainted with the office and the personnel. Get signed up to receive notices of public meetings and/or get on their general mailing list. Next, get involved--attend meetings, learn how that office implements the current laws and how they propose to implement the Omnibus Laws, provide comments and get others involved with your efforts.
     How else to get involved? Via the American Lands Access Association (ALAA), a group that was founded to serve as a lobbying arm of the American Federation of Mineralogical Societies in order to advocate for open public access to Public Lands. If you're not already a member of ALAA, please consider joining! Membership for individuals (or husband and wife) is $25 per year. Clubs can also join, but so many more people are covered; the society membership fee for clubs is $50 per year. You can read more about ALAA on the web site (http://amlands.org) where you can download a membership application. Become an advocate, a promoter of ALAA and our mission. Keep your society and its members informed with the news from ALAA. Encourage participation in our calls to action for response to legislation and management plans. Be involved, be an advocate and participate in the legislative and regulatory process.
          Dick Pankey, ALAA President and a CFMS Past President, submitted by Jim Brace-Thompson.

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MINERAL MYTHS & MEANINGS - QUARTZ.

Quartz.
Quartz is known as a programmable stone - every computer you use has it! It's also believed that quartz helps break bad habits and cures headaches, and it is used as a channeling stone. Quartz enhances energy by absorbing, storing, amplifying, balancing, focusing, and transmitting. It channels universal energy. Ever notice a wizard without a quartz point at the end of their magic wand? It is a very good stone for manifestation, scrying (finding water), channeling, dream recall, and dream work. Two most widely accepted opinions are that the word Quartz is derived from the Greek 'krystallos,' meaning "ice." Other sources insist that the name is from the Saxon word "Querkluftertz," meaning crossvein ore. Little did you know that quartz had such metaphysical properties did you? Personally, I simply like the look of a nice quartz cluster! And it's even better if I found it!
     From Dave Wester, Rocky Trails, 06/09, via The Strata Gem, 08/09.

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LET'S GO TO A SHOW.

CFMS Club Shows 2009.
September 26-27, Downey, CA - Delvers Gem & Mineral Society, Women's Club of Downey, 9813 Paramount Blvd. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-4. Nancy Bird (562) 697-0636, nancyjbird@verizon.net.
September 26-27, Monterey, CA - Carmel Valley Gem and Mineral Society, Monterey Fairgrounds, 2004 Fairgrounds Road. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Sky Paxton (831) 262-2492, sky@familystones.net, Janis Rovetti (831) 657-1933, Janis12@sbcglobal.net, www.cvgms.org.
October 3-4, Fallbrook, CA - Fallbrook Gem & Mineral Society, Fallbrook Gem & Mineral Museum, 123 W. Alvarado Street. Hours: 10 AM-4 PM daily. Mary Fong-Walker (760) 728-1130, ikonmiming@gmail.com.
October 3-4, Oroville, CA - Feather River Lapidary & Mineral Club, Oroville Municipal Auditorium, 1200 Myers Street. Hours: Sat: 7:30-5, Sun: 7:30-4. Connie Rossetto (530) 59-1840 (Webmaster: Bad Phone number - try the email or web site.), crossetto@aol.com, www.orovillerocks.com.
October 10-11, Grass Valley, CA - Nevada County Gem & Mineral Society, Nevada County Fairgrounds, 11228 McCourtney Road. Hours: 10-5 daily. Kim Moore (530) 470-0388, kmoore160@comcast.net, www.ncgms.org.
October 10-11, Trona, CA - Searles Lake Gem & Mineral Society, Searles Gem & Mineral Show Building, 13337 Main Street. Hours: Sat. 7:30-5, Sun. 7:30-4. Jim & Bonnie Fairchild (760) 372-5356, sigms@iwvisp.com, www1.iwvisp.com/tronagemclub.
October 17, West Hills, CA - Woodland Hills Rockchippers, First United Methodist Church, 22700 Sherman Way, West Hills. Hours: Sat. 10-5. show@rockchippers.org.
October 17-18, Anderson, CA - Shasta Gem & Mineral Society, Shasta District Fairgrounds, Near Redding off Hwy 273. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Steve Puderbaugh (530) 365-4000.
October 17-18, Lakeside, CA - El Cajon Valley Gem & Mineral Society, Lakeside Rodeo Grounds, 12684 Mapleview Ave. Hours: 10-5 daily. Carolyn Boland (619) 561-7498, bobpeggy99@aol.com, www.ECVGMS.com.
October 17-18, Placerville, CA - El Dorado County Mineral & Gem Society, El Dorado County Fairgrounds, 100 Placerville Drive. Hours: 10-5 daily. Jackie Cerrato (530) 676-2472, info@rockandgemshow.org, www.eldoradomineralandgem.org, Show: www.rockandgemshow.org.
October 17-18, Santa Rosa, CA - Santa Rosa Gem & Mineral Society, Santa Rosa Veterans' Building, 1351 Maple Ave. (opposite Fairgrounds). Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Kendra Summer_skys_27@yahoo.com, www.gem-n-i.org.
October 24-25, Los Altos, CA - Peninsula Gem & Mineral Society, Los Altos Civic Center Youth Center, One San Antonio Road. Hours: 10-5 daily. Dave Muster (408) 245-2180, mustersgems@yahoo.com.
November 6, 7 & 8, Eureka, CA - Redwood Acres Fairgrounds, 3750 Harrie Street. Hours: Fri. 9-6, Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Toni Tyson (707) 502-9574, bluiis911@msn.com.
November 7-8, Concord, CA - Contra Costa Mineral & Gem Society, Centre Concord, 5298 Clayton Road (Corner of Ygnacio & Clayton Rd.). Hours: 10-5 daily. Harry Nichandros, show2009@ccmgs.org, http://ccmgs.org.
November 7-8, Lancaster, CA - Palmdale Gem & Mineral Society, Antelope Valley Fairgrounds, 2551 W. Ave. H and Hwy 14. Hours: 9-5 daily. Susan Chaissin-Walblom (661) 943-1861, SLChaisson@yahoo.com, palmdalegemandmineral.com.
November 7-8, Ridgecrest, CA - Indian Wells Gem & Mineral Society, Inc., Desert Empire Fairgrounds, 520 S. Richmond Rd. Hours: 9-5 daily. John DeRosa (760) 375-7905, schiller@ridgecrest.ca.us.
November 14-15, Victorville, CA - Victor Valley Gem & Mineral Society, San Bernardino Co. Fairgrounds, 17800 7th Street. Hours: 9:00 am-5:00 pm daily. Virgil Melton (760) 900-0507, VVGMC.org.
November 14-15, Yuba City, CA - Sutter Buttes Gem & Mineral Society, Franklin Hall, Yuba/Sutter Fairgrounds, 442 Franklin Ave. Hours: Sat. 9-5, Sun. 9-4. Bruce Roberts (530) 675-2864.
November 21-22, Livermore CA - Livermore Valley Lithophiles, At the "Barn", Pacific Ave. at S. Livermore Ave. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. info@lithophiles.com, www.lithophiles.com.
November 21-22, Oxnard, CA - Oxnard Gem & Mineral Society, 800 Hobson Way. Hours: Sat. 9-5, Sun. 10-4. Norb Kinsler (805) 644-6450, info@oxnardgem.com, www.oxnardgem.com.
December 5-6, Barstow, CA - Mojave Gem & Mineral Society, Community Center, 841 Barstow Road. Hours: 10-5 daily. Gene Haines (760) 256-0595, janetwentz@earthlink.net, www.mdgms.org.

CFMS Club Shows 2010.
January 16-17, Exeter, CA - Tule Gem & Mineral Society, Exter Memorial Bldg., 420 N. Kaweah (Hwy 65), Exter. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Pepper Okada (559) 733-5842, Don Vieira (550) 733-7739 (Webmaster: Phone number a guess - the original was not valid.), Webpage: tulegem.org.
February 12-21, Indio, CA - San Gorgonio Mineral & Gem Society, Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival, Gem & Mineral Building Bldg #1, 46-350 Arabia Street. Hours: 10 am-10 pm. Bert Grisham: (915) 849-1674, Email: bert67@verizon.net.
March 5, 6, 7, Newark, CA - Mineral and Gem Society of Castro Valley, Newark Pavilion, 6430 Thorton Avenue, Newark, CA 94560. Hours: Fri & Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Lary Ham (510) 887-9007, Email: showchair@mgscv.org, Website: www.mgscv.org.
March 6-7, Arcadia, CA - Monrovia Rockhounds, Inc., Los Angles Co. Arboretum & Botanic Gardens, 301 Baldwin Ave. Hours: Sat. & Sun. 9-4:30. Jo Anna Ritchey (626) 359-1624, Website: www.Moroks.com.
March 6-7, Ventura, CA - Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, Seaside Park, Ventura Co. Fairgrounds, 10 W. Harbor Blvd. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Andy Anderson (805) 987-0043, Email: vgms_editor@roadrunner.com, Website: vgms.org.
March 13-14, Spreckels, CA - Salinas Valley Rock & Gem Club, Veteran's Memorial Hall, 5th & Liano Streets. Hours: 10-5 daily. Ernie DeFever (831) 422-3422, Email: minimad64@comcast.net, Website: salinasrockandgem.com.
March 13-14, Turlock, CA - Mother Load Mineral Society, Stanislaus Co. Fairgrounds, 900 N. Broadway. Hours: Sat. 10-6, Sun. 10-5. Bud & Terry McMillin (209) 524-3494, Email: terry.mcmillin@yahoo.com, Website: www.turlockgemshow.com.
April 16, 17, 18, San Jose, CA - Santa Clara Valley Gem & Mineral Society, Santa Clara County Fairgrounds, 334 Tully Road. Hours: Fri 9-5, Sat & Sun 10-5. Frank Mullaney (408) 265-1422, Email: info@scvgms.org, Website: www.scvgms.org.
May 8-9, Reno, NV - Reno Gem and Mineral Society, Reno Livestock Events Center Exhibit Hall, 1350 N. Wells Ave., Reno, NV. Hours: Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4. Ann Johnson (775)544-4937, Email: ann.johnson@gmail.com, Website: renorockhounds.com.
June 18-20, La Habra, CA - AFMS/CFMS Show and Convention Hosted by North Orange County Gem and Mineral Society, So. CA University of Health Sciences Campus, 16200 E. Amber Valley Rd., Whittier, CA. Hours: 1-5 daily. Mike Beaumont (714) 510-6037, Website: networkingWave.com - Click on AFMS2010 on the left, Website: www.nocgms.com, Website: www.amfed.org.

AFMS Regional Shows - 2009.

Rocky Mountain Federation (RMFMS),
October 2-3, Roswell, NM,

South Central Federation (SCMS),
October 10-11, Temple, TX,
Website: www.scfms.net.

Eastern Federation (EFMS),
October 16-18,
Beals Communittee Center, Bristal, CT,
Website: www.amfed.org/efmls.

Southeast Federation (SFMS),
Website: www.amfed.org/sfms.

Source: http://cfmsinc.org/.

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SUPPORT AND PRACTICE
THE AFMS CODE OF ETHICS.

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You may also go to the VGMS Home Page.