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Field Guide

The Mineralogy Department maintains an extensive collection on minerals from southern California, as well as a synoptic collection of minerals from around the world, including 26,000 catalogued specimens of minerals, meteorites, and precious gems. Of particular interest is the collection of valuable minerals found in pegmatite deposits in San Diego County, including extensive tourmaline deposits. See the department's mission and purpose.

Use Policy

Due to reduced budgets and staffing, the Mineralogy Department is temporarily closed. We are unable to honor requests for specimen identification, new loans, or use of the collections at this time. We regret this inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.

About Mineralogy

See Resources for information about the geology and earthquakes of San Diego County, related organizations, related links, and recommended books.