Visitors see a dazzling array of unique minerals in “Unearthed: Raw Beauty.” (photo courtesy of NHMLAC)

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County presents “Unearthed: Raw Beauty” opening on Dec. 14. The exhibition invites visitors into a one-of-a-kind experience featuring some of the largest and rarest mineral specimens ever displayed in their natural, uncut form.

“The specimens presented within ‘Unearthed: Raw Beauty’ are truly magnificent in scale and rarity within the world of minerals,” NHMLAC president and director Dr. Lori Bettison-Varga said. “Large-scale minerals in their uncut, raw state are rarely displayed in exhibitions like this, especially with so many exquisite examples all in one place. This array of exceptional stones and crystals, including many from our own collection, creates an otherworldly experience.”

“Unearthed” showcases some of the most spectacular mineral specimens ever discovered, and it also reveals the beauty of minerals and crystals in their natural state – with some on view for the first time. Through an immersive exhibition design, visitors will descend into a world of mystery and wonder to learn about the science behind minerals, crystals, gems and rocks, emerging with a deeper understanding of the importance and prevalence of minerals.

The collection of shapes, sizes and colors of specimens includes everything from enormous crystals thicker than a tree trunk to a grouping of extremely rare blue cap tourmalines discovered near San Diego and reunited for the first time. The exhibition features a large collection of California’s mineral treasures such as bright pink kunzite, orange spessartine, deep blue benitoite (California’s state gemstone) and natural gold “flame” (California’s state mineral). “Unearthed” also includes other forms of minerals, such as exquisite carvings from China, jewelry created from rare minerals, a large fossil ammonite that magically comes to life and massive touchable crystals. The exhibition aims to inspire greater appreciation for the natural world.

“’Unearthed: Raw Beauty’ showcases minerals as both natural art and scientific discovery,” NHM curator of mineral sciences Dr. Aaron Celestian added. “These specimens simultaneously captivate visitors’ imaginations through their aesthetic perfection while revealing billions of years of Earth’s chemical evolution and inspiring breakthroughs in materials science.”

“Unearthed: Raw Beauty” runs through April 18, 2027, and is included with admission to NHM and free for members. The exhibition was organized by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in collaboration with the Gallery of Natural Art. NHM is located at 900 Exposition Blvd. For information, visit nhm.org /unearthed-rare-mineral-exhibition.