A Message from the Chairwoman: Celebrating Our Diamond Jubilee
On behalf of the Oregon Agate and Mineral Society (OAMS), it is my distinct honor to welcome you to our 2026 annual show. This year marks a momentous milestone for our community as we celebrate our 75th Anniversary—our Diamond Jubilee.
A Legacy of Passion and Education
Founded in January 1933, OAMS stands as one of the nation’s pioneering institutions dedicated to the lapidary arts and earth sciences. For 93 years, our society has been a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest’s geological community. Our history is deeply intertwined with the cultural fabric of Oregon; in fact, our founders were instrumental in the establishment of the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) in 1944, and later, the Rice NW Museum. Because of these deep historical roots, OAMS members enjoy a truly unique reciprocal membership program. This exclusive benefit grants our members general admission to both OMSI and the Rice NW Museum, fostering a year-round connection to the best geological and scientific resources Oregon has to offer, in addition to several other members' exclusive benefits.
Our Mission: Giving Back
OAMS is dedicated to inspiring the next generation. Through the Thomas J. Bones Scholarship Foundation Trust Fund, we provide scholarships for underprivileged children to attend OMSI’s Camp Hancock. This show is strictly educational; every handcrafted item for sale was cut and polished by our members, with proceeds directly supporting our goal of educating youth in Earth Science, Geology, and Paleontology.
We Need Your Support: A Call to Action
This show is a labor of love, but it simply cannot happen without the dedicated effort and time of our volunteers. We are a community-driven organization, and we need your hands and hearts to make this Jubilee a success.
Volunteer Your Time: Help us keep this tradition alive. We encourage you to join our team by signing up here.
Donations Needed: To ensure our fundraising efforts reach their goal, we are seeking donations in many forms:
Financial Contributions: Direct monetary donations to support our scholarship fund.
Raffle Prizes: High-quality rocks, minerals, gemstones, jewelry, fossils, or educational science kits. You can also purchase items for donation directly from our Amazon list.
Kids' Treasure Hunt: We are specifically seeking tumbled rocks and "Minecraft" merchandise for our interactive youth stations. You can also purchase items for donation directly from our Amazon list.
Join Our Celebration
This Diamond Jubilee is a testament to the legendary community we have built together. We invite you, your family, and your loved ones to explore the wonders of the natural world with us.
Event Details:
Dates: February 27, 28, and March 1, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: OMSI Auditorium, 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR 97214
Admission: Free admission for all.
We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating 75 years of geological wonder!
Warmest regards,
Rose Cohen
Chairwoman, Oregon Agate and Mineral Show
Oregon Agate and Mineral Society (OAMS)