LANCASTER, PA – The North Museum of Natural History & Science, a gem of Lancaster County for the past 60 years, invites families to celebrate its “diamond” anniversary with a dazzling new geology exhibit, “Diamonds” opening June 1st through September.
This new exhibit presented by, Warren Jewellers is designed for children and geology and gem enthusiasts of all ages, the exhibit takes visitors on a journey from rocks to riches as they explore how these gems were formed deep within the earth billions of years ago, how they’re mined, processed, and how diamonds are used in some unusual ways.
“This exhibit will be interesting to visitors of all ages because of the universal subject. We’ve all marveled at a diamond,” said Margie Marino, executive director of the North Museum. “But the exhibit is particularly wonderful for families because it allows them to interact and learn together.”
“Diamonds” highlights fascinating facts about the sparkling stone and their role in industrial, technological and scientific applications. Visitors explore these worlds and also have the chance to test diamond re-creations with professional jeweler’s tools.
From formation to the 4Cs, “Diamonds” explores the hardest natural substance on earth through hands-on experiences that include rock and mineral samples, rough cut diamonds, acrylic reproductions and multimedia interactives. The North Museum’s collection of rocks and minerals from Lancaster County and around the world will also be displayed. And the Museum will host special geology events focused on the rich mineral history of central Pennsylvania.
“Although Lancaster County has yet to produce any diamonds, the area has a long history with mining and geology,” said Dr. Charles Scharnberger, Professor Emeritus of Earth Sciences at Millersville University. “At one time Lancaster was the main source of both nickel and chromium in North America. Other principal ores mined here have been those of iron (both magnetite and limonite), zinc, lead, and silver.”
“Diamonds” is a production of Science North, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada. The traveling exhibit will make its last stop at the North Museum in Lancaster before reaching its permanent home at the Yellowknife Diamonds Education Centre in the Northwest Territories of Canada.
“Diamonds” will be on display at the North Museum through September. Admission to the Museum is $7.50 for adults, $6.50 for children (age 3-17) and seniors (age 65 and up), free to children under 3 years old and Museum members.
About the North Museum:
Sparking curiosity, 60 years and counting. In 2013, the North Museum of Natural History & Science marks six decades of inspiring curiosity and a love of science in children and adults of all ages. Through hands-on exhibits, family-oriented events and educational programming, the Museum plants the seeds of exploration leading to a lifelong journey of discovery. Located in the college district of downtown Lancaster, the Museum houses extensive collections and south central Pennsylvania’s largest planetarium, making it Lancaster County’s best science-based educational resource. The Museum also provides significant community outreach programs including the North Museum Science & Engineering Fair, weekly afterschool science clubs, and “What in the World?”, a career awareness program provided for area students. For more information about the North Museum or for hours and admission, call (717) 291-3941 or visit www.northmuseum.org.
