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  • 02
    02.May

    Rare Earths and Beyond: The Mineralogical Foundations of Modern Cellphones

    2:00 pm-3:00 pm
    05.02.2026
    Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art
    1220 Kensington Road, Oak Brook, IL 60523

    We’re excited to invite you to an engaging presentation by Michael Wise, research scientist at the Smithsonian Institution. Dr. Wise is a leading expert on pegmatites – remarkable rock formations that host some of the rarest and most beautiful minerals on earth. These minerals may look like dazzling museum specimens, but they also power the technology we carry every day. As a contributor to the Smithsonian’s exhibition “Cellphone: Unseen Connections,” he helped reveal the surprising journey from molten formation to the device in your pocket. Join us as he explores the fascinating story of how minerals formed millions of years ago became essential components in modern cellphones.

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

  • 30
    30.May

    Rock and Mineral ID Class

    10:30 am-11:45 am
    05.30.2026
    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