The Gem and Mineral Hall displays more than 2,000 spectacular specimens within two large galleries that comprise what is considered to be one of the finest exhibits of gems and minerals in the world.

Overall, the exhibit features an incredible array of gems and minerals from all over the globe as well as an extensive collection of California specimens. The objects in the gallery are so beautiful, you can’t help but want to touch them. Luckily visitors are encouraged to interact with multiple “touch specimens” of gems, minerals and meteorites. A slab of gem-quality jadeite, weighing several hundred pounds, is one of the most valuable specimens in the entire exhibit and must be one of the most valuable mineral specimens available for public handling in the world.

The Gem and Mineral Hall houses only a small fraction of the Museum’s extensive collection, which now includes more than 150,000 specimens.