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The annual gem show, this year at the SNPJ Hall in Spring Hill, raises scholarship money while showcasing stones, fossils and jewelry.
By JOY DAVIS-PLATT
© St. Petersburg Times, published November 30, 2001
BROOKSVILLE -- The Withlacoochee Rockhound Club opens its 27th annual Gem, Mineral and Jewelry Show today, and it will be in a new location.
The three-day event has moved to the SNPJ Hall, 13383 County Line Road, Spring Hill. Club president Jerry Johnson said about 3,000 people came through the National Guard Armory in Spring Hill for last year's show.
Johnson said he expects the show to draw at least as many people as last year, perhaps more.
"People can expect to see just about anything they might be interested in," Johnson said. "We have rough materials not yet cut or finished and ready-to-wear jewelry."
Displays will include replicas of the crown jewels from the Crown Hotel in Inverness and a replica of Aaron's Breastplate made by club members. There will be a photographic mineral exhibit as well as artists demonstrating their crafts.
Dealers will offer fine jewelry, gem stones, fossils, beads, handcrafted jewelry, raw material and lapidary equipment.
On Saturday, the Hernando County Jazz Society will play from 1 to 3 p.m., a show organizers are calling Jazz and Gems.
"This will open up our doors to people who might not normally go to see a gem show," said Johnson, a retired Navy officer and gemologist.
Proceeds from the show benefit the club's scholarship program. The club donates about $500 each year to University of South Florida geology students.
The show is from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. today through Sunday. Admission is $2.25 for adults, $1 for children 13 and older, and free for children 12 and younger. For information, call 688-7810 or 688-1406.