Although it has been closed for three years, the museum finally announced that it will open its completely redesigned halls this upcoming fall- to celebrate its 150th anniversary.
A Long Line of History
“Halls like these are crucial and tangible teaching tools that communicate an understanding of humanity’s place in the universe,” said Allison Mignone. “Our family’s experiences at the Museum have helped us see the discoveries…and remarkable stories, such as those that will be featured in these renovated galleries, are told.”
The Design
The 11,000 square-foot halls have now been optimized to be the greatest collection of its kind. It will feature recently acquired specimens, including two remarkable amethyst geodes that are among the world’s largest on public display and a gallery of gems with treasures such as the legendary 563-carat “Star of India” sapphire and 632-carat Patricia emerald with much more.
Interactive Tour
The hall will also have interactive displays, touchable specimens, and redesigned exhibits that will tell the story of the vast diversity of minerals that arose on earth. The highlight will include a luminous gallery featuring a wall-sized panel of rock glowing fluorescently in the shade of orange and green.
High-End Animal Jewelry Exhibition
Animal jewelry designed by Cartier, Bulgary, Tiffany & Co as well as other luxurious brands will be featured in the exhibition hall. “The opening of the Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals will be a milestone in a wide range of capital and programmatic enhancements commemorating the Museum’s 150th anniversary,” said museum president Ellen V. Futter.
Telling a Story Through the Gems
“By telling the fascinating stories of the complex processes that gave rise to the extraordinary diversity of minerals on our dynamic planet and describing how people have used them throughout history for personal adornment, tools, and technology, the Halls will not just be glittering but also intellectually engaging.”
On your next trip to the Museum of Natural History, check out the hall of gems. You won’t be disappointed!