The Mount Isa Lapidary Club has been an integral part of the local community for an impressive 65 years. Founded in 1956, the club was initially established by a group of passionate individuals who shared a common love for rocks, minerals, and gemstones.
In its early years, the club started with just a handful of members, meeting in small rented spaces to learn and practice lapidary techniques. As interest in the club grew, so did its membership, prompting the need for a dedicated lapidary workshop.
With strong community support and fundraising efforts, the club soon found a permanent home and began offering a wide range of lapidary activities and workshops. These included cutting and shaping stones, polishing and faceting gemstones, as well as jewelry making with precious and semi-precious stones.
As the years went by, the club continued to expand its offerings, attracting lapidary enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels. Regular club meetings and social gatherings allowed members to come together, share their knowledge, and forge lasting friendships.
The Mount Isa Lapidary Club also established itself as a pillar of the community, participating in local events and exhibitions to showcase the exquisite lapidary creations crafted by its members. These exhibitions not only highlighted the beauty of rocks and minerals found in the region but also served as a source of inspiration for others.
The dedication and commitment of the club’s members have led to countless achievements and accolades. Over the years, club members have actively participated in regional, state, and national lapidary competitions, consistently bringing home awards and recognition for their outstanding craftsmanship.
As the Mount Isa Lapidary Club celebrates its 65th anniversary, it proudly looks back on a long and storied history of promoting the lapidary arts. It remains a place where lapidary enthusiasts can come together, learn, create, and share their passion for rocks, minerals, and gemstones. With a strong foundation and a vibrant community, the club eagerly looks ahead to many more years of fostering a love for lapidary craftsmanship in the Mount Isa area and beyond.