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Stunning 100-piece gem, mineral exhibit on display at Victoria College

Ribbon cutting on March 27 The stunning collection is on loan from Tenna and Chris Thompson

The community is invited to see the stunning gem and mineral collection on display at Victoria College in the Health Sciences Center.

There is no cost to view the Tenna and Chris Thompson Gem and Mineral Exhibit. It is open Monday through Thursday, from 7 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. On Friday, it’s open from 7 a.m. until 5 p.m.

An official ribbon-cutting was held Thursday, March 27, highlighting the collection that is on loan from the Thompson family.

“When Chris and Tenna contacted us about this, it was like a dream come true,” said Dr. Jennifer Kent, Victoria College President. “We are so thankful to them for making this exhibit available for our students, families and community to enjoy.”

The 100-piece geological collection of gems and minerals is truly one-of-a-kind. Matthew Weiler, Dean of Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Physical Education at VC, played a key role in processing and labeling the items.

“I’ve worked at museums, I’ve worked in other countries,” said Weiler. “Believe me when I say this is state of the art. The benefit this has for our community and our students is truly unique.”

The gem and mineral collection isn’t the only impressive exhibit on display in the VC Health Sciences Center. It’s located next to the Prehistoric Fossil Exhibit, which is also free to the public.

Malachite on display

Gypsum in the gem and mineral exhibit

The gem and mineral exhibit

A fossil on display