About The Tehachapi Gem & Mineral Society

Our History

Cartoon smiling bear mascot for Temchapi Valley School & Minority Society, holding a crystal

Founded in 1986 by a group of local rock hounds, the Tehachapi Valley Gem and Mineral Society is an active 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We are dedicated to educating our members and the local community about geology and the lapidary arts. The club meets every fourth Thursday at the Senior Center in downtown Tehachapi. Our meetings frequently feature guest speakers presenting on topics such as local geology, gems and fossils, meteorite hunting, and even the various snakes and reptiles in the area.

MISSION STATEMENT


The TVGMS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose purpose is to promote the study of earth sciences with emphasis on collection or rocks, minerals, fossils, and gems. Popular interest in geology, mineralogy, paleontology, and related subjects. We sponsor lectures, classes, demonstrations, field trips and school visits to further education and interest both within TVGMS and the community at large. Our annual gem show exhibits rock, mineral, fossil, Jewelry and lapidary arts collections in order to share our hobby with the public.


Our Board

The members of our board of directors are thought leaders who have made a significant contribution to our society. Each and every one of them brings a unique set of skills and expertise to our organization.
Man in glasses and black cap, seated indoors against a pale green wall.

Ron Myrick

President

Smiling man with white hair and beard wearing glasses in a light-colored shirt, seated indoors near a window

Diane Farnsworth
Vice President

Smiling person in a blue sweater seated indoors against a light green wall.

Jesica Grizzle
Treasurer

Smiling woman with glasses in a light blue shirt, seated indoors against a green wall.

Deb Burken
Ways & Means

Smiling woman in a green shirt seated indoors against a light green wall

Jim Tobin
Secretary

Man wearing a brown hat and glasses, seated indoors against a light green wall.

Michael Coghlan
CFMS Rep.