What began in 1970 as a way to gain the interest of Mr. Bidwell's junior high school science class quickly became a Glendora city tradition. The excitement of the children led to the involvement of their parents in rockhounding field trips and an annual Gem and Mineral show. To this day, the Gem Show still occurs in the same gymnasium at Goddard Middle School. Although the class is no longer a part of the curriculum at Goddard, many of Mr. Bidwell's original students still attend weekly lapidary club meetings led by Mr. Bidwell, his wife, Bonnie Bidwell, and other dedicated members of the Glendora Gems.

Meet Mr. Bidwell

Since 1968, Mr. Bidwell has been teaching Earth Sciences in the city of Glendora.

His popularity and passion for geology led to a following of students as well as parents for rockhounding field trips and lapidary lessons.

What started as a junior high school elective has grown into a community of generations of hobbyists who meet every week to continue to learn more from Mr. Bidwell.

Learn More

Glendora Lapidary Workshop

The Glendora Lapidary Workshop is open every Tuesday from 5 PM – 9 PM.
Click Here to learn about other Gem and Mineral Clubs and Shops in Southern California.

Museum Initiative

If you grew up in Glendora, CA, it is likely that you may have taken – at least heard of – Mr. Larry Bidwell’s lapidary class. For nearly half of a century, Mr. Bidwell has dedicated his life to teaching the lapidary arts to students in the community. Past and current students, community members, and lapidary enthusiasts are joining together in an effort to commemorate his great work by establishing the Bidwell Gem & Mineral Museum.

Annual Gem & Mineral Show

Hosted in the same location since 1970, the annual Gem and Mineral show is a family friendly event in Glendora. Community members, gem and mineral enthusiasts, and friends visit this highly anticipated event each year. Join us for the 48th show in June 2019 and explore over 30 vendors, mineral displays, children’s activities, lapidary demonstrations, prize wheel, and more! Admission is free and all ages welcome.