Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals Gift & Greeting Card

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The Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals, located in Hillsboro, Oregon, houses an incredible collection of minerals, rocks, fossils, petrified wood, gems and meteorites. Considered one of the finest museums in the United States, the Rice Northwest Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in geology and earth sciences.

The museum's collection is the result of the passion of Richard and Helen Rice, who built the museum building in 1952 to house their impressive collection. Richard Rice, who worked as a logger, incorporated many rare Oregon woods, such as mrytle wood and quilted maple, in the construction of the building. Salmon-colored sandstone was also used, giving the museum a unique architectural style and character.

Visitors to the Rice Northwest Museum can expect to explore galleries filled with stunningly beautiful and rare specimens. The museum's collection is focused mostly on the Pacific Northwest, with 90% of the collection being PNW specimens, 5% from the rest of the United States, and 5% from other countries. The exhibits are informative and engaging, highlighting the history and geology of the region and the world.

One of the most impressive displays in the museum is the meteorite collection. The Rice Northwest Museum has one of the largest meteorite collections in the world, featuring specimens from all over the globe. Visitors can gaze upon pieces of the Moon and Mars, as well as fragments from other celestial bodies.

The museum's building is listed on the National Register of Historic Homes, making a visit to the Rice Northwest Museum not just informative but also a visit to a piece of Oregon's history. The museum's collections, exhibits, and building are a testament to the passion and dedication of the Rice family and the importance of preserving our planet's geological history.

Overall, the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals is a gem of a museum, tucked away in Hillsboro, Oregon. Whether you're a rock collector, geology enthusiast, or simply interested in learning about the natural wonders of the world, this museum is the perfect destination.

Gift Ideas for Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals

For the rock lover in your life, the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals in Hillsboro, Oregon offers a wealth of unique and fascinating gift options. From stunning mineral specimens to beautiful jewelry, there's something for everyone at this museum store.

One of the best gifts you can give from the Rice Northwest Museum is a piece of Oregon's geological history. The museum's collection of Oregon sunstones is truly exceptional, featuring rare and beautiful examples of this unique gemstone. Sunstones are feldspar crystals that exhibit a brilliant golden color when exposed to light, making them a stunning addition to any collection or piece of jewelry.

For those interested in more traditional jewelry, the museum store offers a variety of pieces featuring gemstones and minerals from around the world. From elegant earrings to bold statement necklaces, these pieces are sure to delight and impress. And for those who prefer a more understated look, the museum store also offers a selection of mineral specimens that can be used as paperweights or displayed in a curio cabinet.

If you're shopping for a child or young adult, the museum store offers a range of educational and fun gifts. From rock and mineral kits to geodes and fossils, these gifts are sure to spark an interest in science and geology. And for those interested in something more whimsical, the museum store also offers a selection of crystal-growing kits and other science-based toys.

Overall, the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals offers a truly unique shopping experience, with gifts that are both beautiful and educational. So whether you're shopping for a seasoned rock collector or someone who simply appreciates the beauty of the natural world, the museum store is the perfect destination for gift-giving inspiration.

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