Gem Gallery Opens In Gem State Because Of Course It Should

I've always wondered why Idaho is called the "Gem state." I mean, I assume there are a lot of literal gems here. But it's one of those things you learn as a kid and never think to dive into the history even a little bit. Thankfully the Google machine exists, so a quick little search and I got my answer:

"Idaho has been nicknamed “the Gem State” since its territorial days. ... From A for acanthite to Z for zoisite, over 240 different minerals have been identified in Idaho. The state can claim world class specimens of vivianite, pyromorphite, cerussite, smokey quartz, aquamarine, ilvaite, and other minerals." - idahogeology.org

So of all places for a gem gallery to exist, Idaho seems like the perfect place. Earlier this week Astro Gallery of Gems made that a reality, opening a location inside The Village at Meridian. The space is filled with gems, fossils, and minerals to not only feast your eyes on, but you can purchase them. There are natural history exhibits where you can learn about all the awesome things you're seeing. You can even buy science kits for the kids.

Astro Gallery of Gems already had a location in New York City and have been around for 60 years. Wild that they only just now opened in the Gem State itself, but if you want to check it out for yourself, head on over to The Village. They're open Monday through Saturday, 10am- 9pm and Sunday, 11am- 6pm. 

I'm interested to see how often they rotate exhibits and displays, and add new ones. Unless you're out here buying all the gems, seems like a place you'd only visit once. Though with 60 years in business, I imagine they find a way to keep it interesting.