GEODES GEODES GEODES

OCTOBER 15, 2026

WE WELCOME AWARD WINNING GEODE HUNTER JEFF SMITH !!!

Geodes are fascinating geological formations that capture the imagination of many. They are often found in volcanic or sedimentary rocks and are created when mineral-rich water evaporates in a cavity, slowly crystallizing over time. These stunning formations can vary tremendously in size, shape, and the types of minerals they contain, which can include quartz, calcite, amethyst, and even more exotic minerals. Collectors and enthusiasts often seek out geodes for their beauty, as opening one reveals a dazzling interior that glistens with crystals, making each geode a unique treasure waiting to be discovered. In the world of geology, geodes also serve as important indicators of the conditions that existed during their formation, providing valuable insights into the Earth’s history and the processes that shaped it.

Speaker:          Jeff Smith, Geologist, Author, Business Owner, Photographer, Geode Collector

Title:                “Geodes, Earth’s Treasures”

Venue:             MFA -Martin Fuller Appraisals, 7921 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 390, McLean, VA

Parking: You will enter the building at the back parking lot. There is free parking at the front and side of 7921 Office Bldg. a six-story cement and glass building, located across the street from the McLean Hilton Hotel. If you need a pass for easier access, you may park around back of the building and we will have free parking passes to put in your drivers side front window, otherwise you will be towed. Someone will be available to give you the free pass at the back entrance. Or, if you arrive late come up to Suite 390 or telephone 703.442.6690 and pick up a parking pass.

Time/Date:     October 15, 2026, Thursday from 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Talk will last about 45 minutes with time for questions.

Fee: $15.00 per meeting, cash or check, made out to DCGIA.org or join for a full year for $55.00, you will learn, network and enjoy learning about minerals, rocks, gemstones, appraisals and more with professionals, hobbyists, new and old friends.

Refreshments: Complimentary coffee, tea, and delightful refreshments will be available.

If you wish to spend time with the speaker and club members after the meeting, you are welcome to join us for a meal at the McLean Hilton Hotel at The Härth Restaurant. Join our table and separate checks will be available for everyone. Please notify Martin or Colette at 703.442.6690 or spontaneously at the meeting if you wish to attend.

Jeff Smith field-collected his first geode in a creek bed in Tunnelton, Indiana in 1974. He earned an MS in Geology from West Virginia University. Jeff worked as a PA Licensed Professional Geologist (retired) with the Department of Environmental Protection in Pittsburgh for 30 years. Since 1999 Jeff has also owned Jeff’s Geodes, offering unique presentations and sales of geodes from Indiana and Mexico. He has made twenty-one field-collecting trips to the Las Choyas geode deposits and three field collecting trips to the Trancas Station geode deposit in Chihuahua, Mexico since 2001. In Las Choyas, Jeff cracked open a rare geode containing mordenite, which now resides in the Carnegie Museum in Pittsburgh. Jeff has authored three articles on geodes for “Rocks and Minerals” magazine (2007, 2010, 2023). He is a mineral photographer with photos in “Rocks & Minerals” magazine, the book “Geodes, Earth’s Treasures”.

If you have any questions, please contact Martin Fuller, DCGIA.org President at martin@martinfullerassociates.com or 703.442.6690, look forward to seeing you!

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COMING SOON!!!!!

OUR NEXT MEETING IN

NOVEMBER 7, 2026 IS HANDS ON!!!

——SAVE THE DATE! ——

DCGIA FALL INSTRUMENT WORKSHOP

NOVEMBER 7, 2026, Saturday – 1:00pm to 5:00pm

“REFRACTOMETERS AND POLARISCOPES FOCUS INSTRUCTION”!!!

We will be focusing on the use of Refractometers and Polariscopes for the afternoon. The Workshop will be held at the offices of Martin Fuller located at Martin Fuller Appraisals, LLC, 7921 Jones Branch Drive, Suite 390, McLean, Virginia 22102-3334. Instruction in the use of the instruments will provide beginning gemologists and gem enthusiasts with guidance and insights into the into the instruments and professionals the opportunity to sharpen their skills in using them. A charge of $10.00 per person, payable in cash or check, will be collected at the door. Those wishing to participate should let Tim Morgan know by November 4 their intention to come to the Workshop. Email him at timothyemorgan@mac.com or call him at 301-325-3171.

This Workshop is the first of many instructing in the use of handheld and tabletop gemological instruments the Chapter is considering offering.

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DCGIA.ORG ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARTY TRADITION 2026

ENJOY A DELIGHTFUL HOLIDAY MEAL WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT, DELICIOUS FOOD AND DRINK AND ROCK STARS AT EVERY TABLE!

MARK YOUR CALENDERS FOR

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2026

DETAILS TO FOLLOW!