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August-September
  • 16
    16.August

    Exploring Gemstones: An Introduction to Gemology

    1:00 pm-2:30 pm
    08.16.2025
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Gemstones have dazzled humanity for centuries, symbolizing wealth, status, and personal expression. But what gives them their allure? Discover the science of gemology – the scientific journey into origins, properties, and mysteries of these natural treasures. Join Dr. Cigdem Lule for an introduction to the tools, techniques, and scientific scope of gemology. With strong interest, a series of in-depth workshops will be offered this winter, providing participants with practical experience using professional gemological equipment.

    Lecture/Activity – 1:00 p.m. – 90 minutes
    Students and Adults
    Regular Museum Admission
    Museum Members Free
    Reservations Recommended
    Sign up here

  • 23
    23.August

    Volcano Day

    10:00 am-3:00 pm
    08.23.2025
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Volcanoes in Illinois?! Not recently, but come make your own volcanic eruption, watch a trash can volcano, and see the microscopic components of what makes up volcanic ash. Museum scientists will discuss eruption types and styles, as well as the benefits and hazards associated with volcanoes.
    At 2 p.m. geologist Sara Kurth will present “Minerals of MinecraftÔ: An Exploration of Obsidian.” A vital piece in the world of MinecraftÔ, obsidian is formed through volcanic processes. Sara will discuss how obsidian forms, the variations of obsidian, and maybe dispel some myths surrounding this interesting rock. (*Not approved by or associated with Mojang)

    Drop-in Activities – 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
    Lecture – 2:00 p.m. – 45 minutes
    All Ages Welcome – $5 per child
    Adults Regular Museum Admission
    Museum Members Free
    Reservations Recommended
    Sign up at here 

  • 13
    13.September

    The Fossil Record in the Far Future: Looking Back at the Anthropocene and the Sixth Extinction

    2:00 pm-3:00 pm
    09.13.2025
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Paleontologists have identified five major extinction episodes in the fossil record, where over 75% of species went extinct. This has led to the modern biodiversity crisis being called the Sixth Extinction. It is extremely difficult, however, to compare the data used to measure extinctions in the geological past with that used to measure current extinctions. Join us as Dr. Roy Plotnick, author and professor emeritus of paleontology at University of Illinois, explores the hypothetical future fossil record and what it may look like.

    Lecture – 2:00 p.m. – 60 minutes
    Students and Adults
    Regular Museum Admission
    Museum Members Free
    Reservations Recommended
    Sign up here 

  • 20
    20.September

    Rock and Mineral ID Class

    10:30 am-11:45 am
    09.20.2025
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Join geologist Sara Kurth for a hands-on rock and mineral identification class. Learn to classify minerals using observation and hardness testing. Perfect for curious rock-hounds or scouts working on Earth Science badges, this class will deepen your understanding of earth science and teach you to identify rocks and minerals like a pro!

    Class – 10:30 a.m – 75 minutes
    Ages 8 yrs. and up
    $10 per person – Museum Members Free
    Reservations Required – Register here

  • 20
    20.September

    Rockin' Jewelry for Kids

    1:30 pm-2:15 pm
    09.20.2025
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    Unleash your creativity in this fun, hands-on jewelry-making workshop! Design your own unique gemstone creations—including a necklace, a keychain, and a pin. All materials are provided. Afterward, explore the Museum and enjoy a fun scavenger hunt. This workshop is the perfect way to delve into the world of stone jewelry.

    Activity  – 1:30 p.m – 45 minutes
    Ages 8 yrs. and up
    $15 per person
    Museum Members receive 10%
    Discount with code

    Reservations Required – Register here