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Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art

lapidary art combines the miracles of nature, the knowledge of science and the creative genius of mankind in the medium of stone. Joseph F. Lizzadro, Sr. lapidary hobbyist and collector, gained a first-hand appreciation for the unique characteristics of the mineral world fashioning rough gem material into objects of beauty.

In the late 1930s Joseph Lizzadro acquired his first Chinese jade carving. It was impossible for the lapidary hobbyist to obtainrough jadeite during this time; consequently, many carvings were destroyed for the sake of the hobby. Mr. Lizzadro's respect for the carver's ability overwhelmed his desire to change the carving into something of his own making; thus, the Lizzadro collection was born.

The Museum opened its door on November 4, 1962 with this statement of purpose by the Lizzadro Family..."To Share with others our enjoyment of the eternal beauty in gemstones and our appreciation of the art with which man has complemented the works on nature."

Lapidary is the art of cutting and polishing stone. People of all ages are amazed at the incredible diversity of stone. The upper level of the Museum displays a large collection of Chinese jade and hard stone carvings from around the world. The Rock & Mineral experience presents lapidary materials and the earth science phenomena including fluorescent minerals, a bending rock and an enhydro (a rock containing liquid millions of years old). Encounter fossils, meteorites, mineral specimens and micromounts.