The Peak Lapidary and Mineral Society has been in existence since the early 1960's based in and around the Bakewell area in Derbyshire. As the name implies, it caters principally for mineral collectors and for lapidary enthusiasts. With a well equipped workshop in the village of Tideswell it is always happy to welcome anyone who would like to investigate these hobbies further. Members are always willing to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with newcomers. Current members have a variety of lapidary skills ranging from simple cutting and polishing of beautiful mineral specimens such as agate to cutting and mounting cabochons, facetted stones and silversmithing.
The society meets on average twice a month (2nd and 4th
Mondays), either at the workshop in Tideswell or at the Peak Park Information
Centre in Bakewell. During the summer months collecting trips
are
organised to sites within the Peak Park and further afield.
The society is small, with a membership of around 30, which reflects the fact that it is in a sparsely (for the U.K.) populated area. Despite this it has a claim to fame in that it organises the Bakewell Rock Exchange - the U.K.'s favourite mineral and fossil show. Table holders come from all over Great Britain, from the E.E.C., from Eastern Europe and from North America. The usual venue for this event is Lady Manners School, Bakewell, and it is held over the second weekend in October.
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