In its 13^th year, the region’s sole gem and mineral event includes three days of shiny displays for all to enjoy.

Entry is free this Friday June 30 to Sunday July 2 at Mary Kathleen Park, Cloncurry, with the official opening on Saturday July 1 at 11am.

Visitors can come and go from Friday 10am – 5pm, Saturday 9am – 6pm, and Sunday 9am – 3pm.

Cloncurry Unearthed Visitor Information Centre & Museum manager, Gail Wipaki, said exhibitors travel from all over Australia to the festival.

“We have exhibitors from South Australia, New South Wales, the Sunshine Coast –  it’s a nice sized one, so the people that do travel out, it is worth their while in travelling," Gail said.

Local exhibitors will also be present including the Mount Isa gem and minerals club.

Stalls will be selling a wide range of goodies from semi-precious gems and minerals to precious rocks, jewellery, and great food and drink.

A fossicking heap is all the invitation children will need to get their hands dirty and hunt for gems, crystals, and mineral specimens from around the region.

“It’s a lovely family weekend. We've got the museum here, there’s a playground for the children, and free barbecues in the park to use, so come down and make a day of it,” Gail said.

A local jeweller will be on hand to discuss designs for different gem stones and minerals.

On site jewellery evaluations, cleaning, and repairs will also be on offer.

Ernest Henry Mines supports the event with an information stand, talking to people about different rocks and their uses. 

Raffles and prizes will be up for grabs throughout the weekend, and live entertainment will be provided by local band Chico.

For extra mineral education, there is a permanent and comprehensive gem and mineral display at the Cloncurry Unearthed Museum.

Cloncurry Shire is rich in gold, copper, garnets, amethyst, crystals, Maltese crosses and a collection of other minor minerals, all on display at Rockhana.