The Richmond Gem and Mineral Society (RGMS) was founded in 1957 originally as the Richmond Gem and Mineral Club. RGMS is a nonprofit organization of members that share an interest in rocks, minerals, gems, fossils, and lapidary arts. The society members meet on a regular basis to discuss, learn, and share information about the members’ discoveries, collection, or creations. We also organize field trips to collect rocks and minerals from different locations in order to expand our knowledge and collection. The society often holds exhibitions or shows to share members’ collections with the public and educate others about the value and beauty of rocks, minerals, gems, and fossils.
Club members may also participate in workshops to learn skills like cutting, polishing, or creating various types of jewellery and other decorative objects from natural materials. Overall, the society provides members with an opportunity to connect with others who share their interests and passion for the earth sciences.
As a member of the BC Lapidary Society (BCLS), our club members can participate in BCLS sponsored field trips, “Rendezvous” (an annual gathering that features field trips, displays, auctions, and our annual general meeting), “Summer Camp” (camping and exploratory fieldtrips) that usually occurs in August.
You can learn a bit about geology, how rocks are formed, and which makes good cutting material; how to properly use the machines and tools, and, most importantly, join a community of people who all started by “just liking rocks”.
Society Meetings
Members meet on a monthly basis at the Richmond Arts & Cultural Centre. You do not have to be a member to preview a club meeting, however we ask that you politely let us know beforehand that you’ll be joining us. If you’re interested in attending regularly, you’ll need to apply for membership.
General Meetings
General Meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of each month (except July and December). Most meetings are held in the Atrium of the Richmond Arts & Cultural Centre where we can enjoy snacks and drinks.
Society Business
Show and Tell
Ways & Means
This includes a raffle for members to win materials, book sales, ticket sales and more.
Program
The Program is usually a presentation about rock hounding, geology, mineralogy, lapidary, gemology, or silversmithing.
Executive Meetings
Executive members are volunteers that meet on the third Tuesday of every month; they are responsible for the overall management and governance of the society. They play a crucial role in developing policies, strategic plans and ensuring that the society’s objectives and goals are met. The executive members are elected or appointed by the members of the society, and their roles may include legal, financial, and operational responsibilities.
Learn more about the executive positions available in our nonprofit.