Harvard Mineralogical Museum

Harvard_Mineralogical_Museum,_Harvard_University,_Cambridge_MA

== Harvard Mineralogical Museum ==

The Harvard Mineralogical Museum is a renowned institution dedicated to the study and display of minerals, gems, and meteorites. It is part of the Harvard University and is located in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The museum is one of the oldest and most comprehensive mineralogical collections in the United States.

History

The museum was established in the early 19th century and has grown significantly over the years. It was initially part of the Harvard Museum of Natural History, which was founded in 1859. The mineralogical collection has been expanded through donations, purchases, and field expeditions.

Collections

The Harvard Mineralogical Museum houses over 400,000 specimens, making it one of the largest collections in the world. The collection includes:

• **Minerals**: The museum has an extensive collection of minerals from around the world, including rare and unique specimens.
• **Gems**: The gem collection features a variety of precious and semi-precious stones, including diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.
• **Meteorites**: The museum's meteorite collection includes samples from various meteorite falls and finds, providing valuable insights into the composition of the solar system.

Exhibits

The museum features several permanent and temporary exhibits that showcase its vast collection. Some of the notable exhibits include:

• **The Systematic Mineral Collection**: This exhibit displays minerals organized by their chemical composition and crystal structure.
• **The Gem Gallery**: A dazzling display of cut and uncut gems from around the world.
• **Meteorites and the Solar System**: An exhibit that explores the origins and composition of meteorites and their significance in understanding the solar system.

Research and Education

The Harvard Mineralogical Museum is also a center for research and education. It supports the work of Harvard University faculty and students, as well as visiting researchers. The museum offers educational programs and resources for schools, universities, and the general public.

Visiting Information

The museum is open to the public and offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events. It is located within the Harvard Museum of Natural History, which also includes the Harvard University Herbaria and the Museum of Comparative Zoology.

Related Pages

• Harvard University
• Harvard Museum of Natural History
• Harvard University Herbaria
• Museum of Comparative Zoology
• Mineralogy
• Gemology
• Meteorite