Open House this Thursday in Butte is a True Gem
If you're fond of fine minerals and rock formations, then the upcoming Open House at Montana Tech's Mineral Museum is for you! This Thursday, January 19th, indulge in a showcase of Montana moss agates on loan from the Harmon Collection. These unique agates are also featured in a 2023 calendar devised by the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology. The Open House this Thursday makes it convenient for interested guests to participate. Presentations and raffles will happen every 30 minutes between 4 pm and 8 pm during the showcase.
As described by Fire Mountain Gems, moss agate earned its name because it resembles moss. Moss agate, also known as mocha stone, was first discovered centuries ago in the city of Mocha in Yemen. Now, as for Montana moss agate, the name says it all. It is only found in Montana along the banks of the Yellowstone River and its tributaries between Billings and Sidney. Considered a semi-precious stone, Montana moss agate is formed due to weathered volcanic rocks and lava from Yellowstone Park. Formations of moss agate are considered healing stones and have been recognized as good luck stones in different parts of the world.
The story behind the Harmon Collection featured at Montana Tech's Mineral Museum this Thursday can best be told by the man behind the collection himself, Tom Harmon. In his book, The River Runs North, Harmon tells the story of his fascination for Montana moss agate from the time he was a young boy. The River Runs North is available as a paperback on Amazon and can be viewed HERE. So, treat yourself to a beautiful collection of Montana moss agates and the Mineral Museum's entire mineral collection on the Montana Tech Campus this Thursday. Admission is free, with a cash bar and light snacks available!
