Western Dakota Gem & Mineral Society

09/16/2026

This is really helpful for all new rockhounds.

Every geologist and rockhound should know the three major types of rock: Igneous, Sedimentary, and Metamorphic—but these are not permanent labels. Given enough time and the right conditions, one type can transform into another through the continuous rock cycle.

🔥 Igneous rock forms when molten Magma or Lava cools and solidifies. Granite, Basalt, and Obsidian are familiar examples.

🌊 Sedimentary rock develops when older rocks are weathered into particles that are transported, deposited, compacted, and cemented together. Some also form through chemical or biological processes. Sandstone, Fossiliferous Limestone, and Conglomerate belong to this group.

🌡️ Metamorphic rock forms when existing rock is altered by intense heat, pressure, or both—without completely melting. Gneiss, Schist, and Marble are examples.

Any rock can continue its journey. Igneous rock can erode into sediment, Sedimentary rock can be buried and transformed by heat and pressure, and Metamorphic rock can melt into Magma before cooling into new Igneous rock. Uplift can eventually expose deeply buried rocks at the surface, allowing the process to begin again.

The rock cycle has no true beginning or end—it is Earth continually breaking down, rebuilding, and transforming its crust over millions or even billions of years.



🪨 RocknLaser ⚡️

07/25/2026

Kids’ Activities Happening Now at the Gem & Mineral Show
July 25 & 26 • Central States Fairgrounds, Rapid City

Stop by the Jr. Rockhound Booth for hands‑on fun all weekend. Kids can jump into the coloring contest, dig through a sandbox full of rocks and fossils, and pick up some great giveaways.

Every child can grab a Bingo/Scavenger Hunt card at admissions. Complete it and they’ll earn a free agate to have cut on‑site before they leave — a perfect take‑home treasure from the show.

Bring the kids and let them explore. They’re loving it.

07/24/2026

Come down to the Gem & Mineral Show at the Central States Fairgrounds in Rapid City on Saturday and Sunday! For more information: wdgms.org/show

07/21/2026

07/21/2026

Fossil hunters, this one's for you! The 2026 Gem & Mineral Show is happening THIS Saturday & Subday at the Central States Fairgrounds in Rapid City! Come explore incredible fossils like these, plus gems, minerals, jewelry and more.

07/14/2026

Our Gem & Mineral Show on July 25-26 is built for kids, packed with hands-on-fun, and excitement for the whole family. Join us in the GenPro and Nerdy Nuts buildings at the Central States Fairgrounds in Rapid City to experience it for yourself. Go to wdgms.org/show for more details.

07/09/2026

We're going LIVE tonight!

07/06/2026

Agates aren’t just rocks — they’re nature’s artwork.
Come see stunning agates from across the region at the Western Dakota Gem & Mineral Show, July 25 & 26 in the Lions Club Building at the Central States Fairgrounds in Rapid City.
Beautiful displays, local vendors, kids’ activities, and treasures you won’t find anywhere else.

06/29/2026

One of our club members recently collected these beautiful gold-bearing ore specimens from one of his mining claims.

While placer mining can produce nuggets, pickers, flakes, and flour gold, a significant amount of gold remains locked within hard rock. Recovering this gold is much more challenging for hobbyists because it is often associated with sulfide minerals and typically requires specialized processing, chemicals, and high temperatures to separate the gold from the host rock.

Take a close look at the rock in the photo. Notice the natural fractures, or fissures—that's where the gold is concentrated, making for an impressive example of gold-bearing ore in its natural state.

Note: This is low grade ore.