Mineral Section
A Special GMS Group
for People Interested in Minerals
Mineral Section Meets
Third Wednesday
Every Month
Minerals are as varied and unique as people. From the mundane to the spectacular, minerals are fascinating in many respects.
GMS members and visitors who are interested in learning more about minerals -- please join us at Mineral Section meetings for special programs and presentations!
Interesting Articles and Links
Click here for a list of zoom links from past Mineral Section meetings.Click here for articles about minerals.
If you have any questions about Mineral Section, please send email to
Mineral Section Message
Piezo lighter
Image Credit: Tom Faller
Date: Wednesday, September 18, 2024
Social Time: 7:00 pm
Meeting Time: 7:30 pm
Topic: Piezoelectricity
Location: In-person and via Zoom Link on the GMS Calendar here
The August meeting talked about the garnet group of minerals, silicates that form a widely distributed set of 15 species of minerals with a general chemical form and characteristic shape. Some garnets are widely found in north Georgia. They are an important metamorphic marker.
The September meeting will discuss the interesting phenomenon of piezoelectricity, the ability of some minerals and other substances to generate electricity when stressed. Familiar minerals include tourmaline, topaz and quartz. The effect is also used in everyday objects like gas grill starter buttons, small speakers and the echolocation devices on cars that warn of a possible crash.
The meeting link will be sent out early in the month.
Tom Faller
Mineral Section Chair
NOTE: Temporary procedures are in place for section meetings, including RSVP before attending. Please read those procedures and guidelines here.
Click below for a map and directions
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