Did you know February’s birthstone is amethyst, and that these stunning crystalline gems are mined in the Four Peaks Mountains – a famous mountain range which you can see from right here in Globe-Miami? Azurite and amethyst, peridot, chrysocolla, malachite and turquoise – Gila County boasts a breathtaking variety of dazzling minerals and gems. October’s birthstone, tourmaline, occurs in the Pinal Mountains. November’s birthstone, topaz, is also found in Arizona and December’s signature stone – turquoise – is locally famous due to deposits in Sleeping Beauty Mountain. Friday afternoons this month – Feb. 9, 16 and 23 – will bring the bling to Globe Public Library. From 2-4 p.m. on each of those days, youth ages 8-18 can participate in a free learning series through hands-on activities in exploring the field of rocks, minerals, gems and geology. Arranged by the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension and Gila County 4-H, each of these free Friday afternoon meetups will focus on different aspects of geology. Activities include drawing out iron in cereal, mining cupcakes, creating rock candy and more. Youth can register for this free event at https://4h.zsuite.org/external-eventregistration/25894.
Arizona is famous worldwide for our variety of rocks and minerals – and Globe-Miami’s Copper Corridor is a place where anyone from amateur rockhounds to professional geologists can create a career pursuing their passion!
“Now – back to February’s birthstone,” said Thuy Bishop, coordinator of this free event series. “Amethyst! What does amethyst symbolize, and why is it associated with February? This gemstone is linked to royalty thanks to its purple coloring; amethysts have been used to symbolize deep love, happiness, humility, sincerity, and wealth. Legend has it St. Valentine wore an amethyst ring carved with Cupid’s portrait – which may be why amethyst is February’s birthstone. Many claim these crystals have healing properties, impart positive energy and can bring clarity of the mind, relieving stress and anxiety – even headache and fatigue. Don’t miss our first event on Feb. 9 at Globe Public Library!”
For more information, email tbishop@arizona.edu or dflo@arizona.edu.
