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The Georgia Mineral Society, Inc. 4138 Steve Reynolds Boulevard Norcross, GA 30093-3059 |
Ad Hoc Tumbling Group
A Special GMS Group
for People Interested in Tumbling Rocks
The Ad Hoc Tumbling Group Meets
Third Tuesday
Every Other Month
Many people, young and old, begin their rockhound journeys by tumbling stones. It is a great way to get into the hobby and there is so much to learn from tumbling.
The GMS Ad Hoc Tumbling Group meets every other month via Zoom to talk about all things tumbling. If you are interested, you must be a member of GMS, and all members are encouraged to submit ideas for topics to cover.
The group also sponsors and runs an annual rock tumbling contest for novice and experienced tumblers. Winners are announced at our annual Mother's Day Weekend Rock Show.
If you have any questions about the Ad Hoc Tumbling Group, please send email to
Ad Hoc Tumbling Group Message
Ann Durham
2024 Experienced Division Winner
Arizona Petrified Wood
Image Credit: Tim Hellinger
Kyle Boring
2024 Novice Division Winner
Alabama Black Jasper
Image Credit: Tim Hellinger
No Meeting in December
Rock tumbling is a captivating blend of science, art, and competition that appeals to both enthusiasts and newcomers. The 2nd GMS Rock Tumbling Contest is now underway, prompting interested participants to secure their spots promptly as availability is limited. This contest acts as a platform for mineral collectors and hobbyists to showcase their talents and engage in a lively event centered around natural stones. Ensuring that contestants are familiar with the updated competition rules is pivotal this year, as these changes aim to enhance the overall experience for everyone involved. It is crucial for participants to grasp these modifications thoroughly, as they have the potential to impact their performance significantly.With separate categories designated for novices and experienced individuals, each with its own set of challenges, contestants must be prepared to showcase their skills and adapt accordingly. Novices will be tasked with working Quartz-Feldspar stones sourced from Arkansas, whereas experienced participants will be handed Pseudo diorite from Tennessee. Both varieties of rocks possess distinct characteristics that promise to test tumblers of all proficiency levels. Novices engaging with Quartz-Feldspar face an intriguing obstacle due to the differing hardness levels of Quartz and Feldspar, standing at approximately 7 and 6 respectively on the Mohs scale. Success in achieving a seamless finish during the tumbling process hinges on vigilance and attention to detail. The transformation from raw stone to polished gem serves as a triumphant feat for beginners. Conversely, Experienced competitors are set to tackle the intricate nature of Pseudo diorite, a rock characterized by its interlocking crystals composed of diverse minerals. Navigating the varying hardness levels of these minerals poses a formidable challenge regardless of expertise level, demanding a blend of technical proficiency and innovative problem-solving skills from participants at all levels.
[The contest is open for GMS members only. A link to the rules and a link to the entry form are in the December Tips and Trips and were sent to members via email.]
Good luck to all the participants, and wishing all GMS Members a Safe and Happy Holiday Season.
Tim Hellinger
Group Leader
Click below for a map and directions
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