There is a hidden gem in the grounds of McClelland Gallery in Langwarrin.  For more than 40 years the Frankston & Peninsula Lapidary Club has been specialising in faceting, cabochon, opal carving, chain weaving, silver smithing, and mineral collection.

The art of faceting is the process of cutting and polishing a variety of gemstones, from sapphire to quartz.  Cabochon, on the other hand, is cutting, grinding and polishing a range of rocks and minerals.  Club members can express their artistic talents with opal carving and chain weaving classes, making bracelets and earrings, while silver smithing classes teach them to make settings for the stones they find, or create jewellery using soldering and casting techniques.

Field trips led by experienced organisers give members the chance to experience the excitement of finding their own semi-precious gems and minerals, which they can then cut, polish and set into beautiful statement jewellery.

The club has a range of minerals and gems on display so new members are able to identify the treasures they find on field trips. The club also invites the public to donate any unwanted minerals they have to add to this display, or people can sell them on a commission basis in the club’s annual rock auction.

This August 26-27 at the Cranbourne Public Hall the club will have 20 traders attending for the Annual Gem Show. They’ll be selling a large range of rocks, gems, minerals, crystals, jewellery and even equipment from around the world. Professionals will be sharing their knowledge as visitors partake in raffles, while enjoying food and drink.

The club is open on Sundays from 10am-2pm, Wednesdays 4-8pm, Thursdays 10am-3pm and Saturdays 10am-4pm; it is closed during school holidays on Wednesday evenings.  Visit the website for details about becoming a member.

FRANKSTON & PENINSULA LAPIDARY CLUB INC
A: McClelland Gallery (in the grounds of), 390 McClelland Drive, Langwarrin
T: 9770 9340
W: frankstonlapidaryclub.com