Bundaberg Show patrons were dazzled by brilliant gemstones and silver jewellery crafted by members of the Bundaberg Gem and Mineral Society.
Treasurer Gloria Gray said the variety of beautiful crafted silver jewellery and polished stones, some extremely rare, caught a lot of attention as people strolled through the main pavilion.
Gloria said the craft was known as lapidary, where the artist forms stone, minerals, or gemstones into decorative items such as cabochons, engraved gems, and faceted designs.
She said this year’s display also consisted of pieces made from enamel that were made in a kiln or torch fired, bringing out the vibrant colours.
Explaining the difference between the cuts and various gems, from the rare to the common, Gloria said Bundaberg Gem and Mineral Society members were proud of what they had created.
New members join Bundaberg Gem and Mineral Society
For one Bundaberg family it was last year’s Bundaberg Show which enticed them to join the club.
Vicki Lindeman said it was her children Jack and Hannah Bradford who joined after taking an interest from the displays last year.
As a junior member Jack said it only took a few days to create some of the pieces. Compared with how long it took for stones to form below the Earth’s surface it was “pretty easy”.
Both junior members entered a number of items this year and Hannah took out second place for her polished face, flat surface in the junior section.
The 11-year-old Gooburrum State School student said she enjoyed being in the club and she was delighted to take out a prize.
Older brother Jack said being in the club was worthwhile and he had collected and created many “rocks” during his time.
Vicki said she had only joined a few months ago after seeing her children enjoying it so much.
The club is open to new members, with workshops held throughout the week. To find out more go to the group’s Facebook page.
- Jack’s crowing after Bruce the rooster claims prize
