The Australian Museum has opened a new permanent Minerals Gallery featuring more than 1,800 specimens – some on display for the first time.
Located in Sydney, the exhibition was officially opened by NSW Minister for Tourism, Aboriginal Affairs, the Arts, and Regional Youth, Ben Franklin.
Franklin said the Minerals Gallery will prove a popular destination for admiring scientifically fascinating and aesthetically beautiful objects, while also offering visitors the chance to develop a better understanding of Australia’s geological and economic history.
“As part of our government’s mission to increase access to science and culture, and lay a foundation for life-long learning, the new Minerals Gallery is free for all museum visitors and a great way to kick off your summer holidays,” he said.
“Showcasing Australia’s rarely seen gems and minerals, the new Minerals gallery offers insights into how minerals form their shape, lustre, and size.”
Australian Museum director and CEO Kim McKay added that: “Visitors will not only gain a deeper appreciation of the gems and rare minerals that they know and love, but they will also learn about ‘out of this world’ meteorites and the key aspects of mineralogy and the critical roles minerals play in everything from transport to smartphones.”
The Minerals Gallery opens free to the public on 10 December.
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