Bottoms Up

The Four Corners Gem and Mineral Show returned to the La Plata County Fairgrounds last weekend, marking the homegrown event’s 58th year. This year’s fun included gold panning, tutorials, people watching and, you guessed it, a bountiful stash of gems and minerals. Here’s a look:

  • Anthony Goldtooth, of Shiprock, N.M., sifts through a weath of Arkansas quartz crystals.
    Anthony Goldtooth, of Shiprock, N.M., sifts through a weath of Arkansas quartz crystals.
  • Long-time vendor Bob Holder and his carefully displayed gemstones joined the action last weekend.
    Long-time vendor Bob Holder and his carefully displayed gemstones joined the action last weekend.
  • Nuggets of pyrite, more commonly known as fool’s gold, and quartz made for a showy appearance at the Four Corners Gem and Mineral Show.
    Nuggets of pyrite, more commonly known as fool’s gold, and quartz made for a showy appearance at the Four Corners Gem and Mineral Show.
  • An African grey parrot keeps the crowds entertained
    An African grey parrot keeps the crowds entertained
  • Shoppers peruse one-of-a-kind jewelry and trinkets at the show
    Shoppers peruse one-of-a-kind jewelry and trinkets at the show
  • A beautiful rosy crystal
    A beautiful rosy crystal

In this week's issue...

January 25, 2024
Bagging it

State plastic bag ban is in full effect, but enforcement varies

January 26, 2024
Paper chase

The Sneer is back – and no we’re not talking about Billy Idol’s comeback tour.

January 11, 2024
High and dry

New state climate report projects continued warming, declining streamflows