The University Museums of the University of Delaware is showcasing gemstones from the collection of Herb and Monika Obodda from Aug. 31through Dec. 9, in the Mineralogical Museum in Penny Hall on the Newark campus.

The exhibit features gemstones used in jewelry, prized for their durability as well as their beauty. Minerals have long been fashioned into gemstones, both as amulets to ward off evil and as adornments. Lapis lazuli was mined in Afghanistan more than 6,000 years ago, the earliest emerald mines operated in Egypt 3,000 years ago, and diamonds were known in India more than 2,000 years ago. Today, the 19th-century idea that diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald are the "precious" stones no longer stands. The specimens on display in this exhibition illustrate a breadth of color and beauty beyond the familiar four.

The museum also continues its ongoing display of mineral specimens from the Irénée du Pont Collection,  the foundation of the University of Delaware Mineralogical Museum – along with hardstone carvings of animals.

Sharon Fitzgerald, curator of the Mineralogical Museum, will give a Curator’s Talk titled “Gemstones: Aquamarine to Zircon” on Wednesday, Oct. 19, at the museum. Refreshments will be served beginning at 5 p.m., with the talk following at 5:30 p.m.

For more information on this exhibition, or to schedule a tour, please visit the museum’s website or call 302-831-8037.

Admission to all University Museums exhibitions and events is free and open to the public. Hours are noon-8 p.m., Wednesdays, and noon-5 p.m., Thursdays through Sundays. University Museums are closed during all UD breaks and holidays.