UA Alfie Norville Gem and Mineral Museum
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Museum Plans

The Museum

The iconic Pima County Courthouse is a stunning building, in the heart of Tucson. This iconic and historic structure’s renovation is nearly complete, showcasing its magnificent Spanish Revival architecture. 

While taking exquisite care on the renovation, the new museum will be a completely remodeled, state-of-the art facility, with no detail left undone.

The main level will also offer a chance for reflection. The January 8th Memorial will be located on the West side of the building, commemorating the event of January 8th, 2011 and the wonderful spirit of the Tucson community which immediately transpired  following the tragedy. 

“We're pleased at the opportunity for this world-class collection to serve the broader community.” 

​- Robert C. Robbins, President, University of Arizona 

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Lower level

The UA Geosciences Department will have expansive laboratories and expanded programs on the lower level. Gemologists and mineral collectors will be able to access state-of-the-art technologies.
 
These precision analytical tools allow Earth scientists to identify mineral species and their characteristics. Data can then be added to the RRUFF Database, a University of Arizona project that is amassing a set of high quality mineral data for identifying minerals both on Earth and other planets. Our technology will share this information with the world, setting a standard for identification that will benefit scientists, collectors, museums, and the associated industries. 
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World-class venue

The Museum will be on street level, alongside covered colonnades and a spacious plaza. It will feature a 12,000 square-foot exhibition hall showcasing magnificent gems, in addition to many outstanding original mineral specimens. Visitors will stroll through galleries of gemstones and jewelry, mineral specimens, meteorites and fossils. Many displays will be rotating annually with ever-changing content. 
Gemstone and jewelry photos by: Partrick Pohnl of JTV
Mineral photos by: Mark Mauthner; Jeff Scovil
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  • Vision
    • Museum Plans
    • A Magnetic Destination
  • The Team
    • Museum Board
  • Database
  • Donate
  • Contact
  • Museum Updates
    • Progress Photos