A community built on curiosity
Our goal is simple: keep the art and science of the earth alive for the next generation.
Our Story
Founded in 1981, the High Country Gem & Mineral Society is a nonprofit community where beginners and experts learn side by side. From first-time rockhounds to retired professionals with decades of experience, our members share one thing in common: a love for the earth and a desire to keep its stories alive.
We believe earth science and mineralogy shouldn’t be lost to time. That’s why we’re committed to bridging generations — passing down knowledge through monthly meetings, hands-on lapidary work, field experiences, and classes that span everything from foundational skills to advanced techniques, metalworking, and modern explorations of the craft.
Here, learning is ongoing, curiosity is encouraged, and everyone belongs.
162 Members
Uniting the High Country in our communities
800+ Online Members
Discovering the treasures beneath our feet
Bridging enthusiasts across state lines
12
Board of Directors
Honoring the past, present, and future
Our Vision
To ignite curiosity and connection through the exploration of gems, minerals, and earth sciences, inspiring all generations to discover the treasures beneath our feet.
The High Country Gem & Mineral Society unites enthusiasts, collectors, and learners of all ages and skill to share knowledge, preserve geological heritage, and promote hands-on discovery of the natural world.
Our Mission
501-c4 Corporation
Board of Directors
Terrilyn Price
President
Serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Society, providing leadership, direction, and oversight of all operations, ensures the Organization’s mission is met, and represents the Organization to members, partner groups, and the community.
Alex Hoffman
Vice President
Supports and assists the president and assumes leadership duties in the president absence, plans, arranges, and presents educational and engaging monthly meeting programs, and manages the “Point System”.
Dianne Lapp
Treasurer
Responsible for the financial operation and integrity of the Organization by managing finances, documentation, reporting, and filing all required legal obligations and documentation.
John Ayers
Secretary
Manages, publishes, and maintains the Organization’s official records, meeting minutes, documentation, and correspondence, ensuring accuracy and transparency.
Nadine Fidelman
Member at Large
Represents the general membership, provides feedback to the Board and members, offers input and supports society activities as needed.
Danee Hoover
Membership Chair
Welcomes new members, tracks and manages the membership database and membership dues, and maintains, manages, and publishes membership lists for Board use.
Jaclyn Moon
Communications Chair
Keeps members informed and promotes events, maintains website, manages newsletters, social media, and publicity for the society.
Deb Thomas
Scholarship & Hospitality
Creates a welcoming environment at meetings and events, organizes refreshments, and fosters a friendly atmosphere. Oversees and promotes the society’s scholarship program, organizes application and selection processes, communicates with applicants, and reports results to the Board.
TBD
Show Chair
Manages the planning and execution of the annual gem and mineral show or similar major events.
Lafayette Prescott
Workshop Chair
Manages all aspects of the society’s workshop programs, providing hands-on learning opportunities, maintaining equipment, ensuring safety protocols, and supporting both new and experienced members in developing their skills.
James Graham
Field Trip Director
Plans, organizes, coordinates, and communicates field trips, manages logistics, ensures safety rules/expectations are met.
Morgan Bowman
Education Chair
Education Chair – Organizes, promotes, and communicates educational programs, workshops, and presentations.
Snapshots of Connection
