People often say there’s a holiday for everything—and rockhounds are no exception. From geology and gems to fossils and painted stones, these rock- and mineral-themed holidays offer fun, meaningful ways to celebrate Earth’s treasures all year long. Whether you’re a casual collector, a club member, or a lifelong student of the Earth sciences, these dates are worth jotting on your calendar.
Old Rock Day – January 7
Set aside to contemplate just how ancient our planet truly is, Old Rock Day encourages reflection on Earth’s deep history and the forces that have shaped it. While no one knows exactly when this observance began, it serves as a tribute to early natural philosophers and geologists such as Theophrastus, Pliny the Elder, Ulisse Aldrovandi, James Hutton, and William Smith—thinkers who laid the groundwork for modern geology.
Why it matters: Some of the oldest rocks on Earth are more than 4 billion years old, offering rare glimpses into the planet’s earliest chapters.
How to celebrate: Examine your oldest specimens, read about geologic time, or visit an outcrop that reveals layered history.
National Jewel Day – March 13
National Jewel Day is dedicated to appreciating precious stones and the jewelry made from them. From the earliest adornments fashioned from stone, bone, and shell to today’s exquisite gem-set designs, this holiday honors the artistry and symbolism of jewelry across cultures and eras.
Why it matters: Gems connect geology with human creativity, turning minerals formed deep within the Earth into objects of beauty and meaning.
How to celebrate: Wear a favorite piece, learn the story behind a gemstone, or gift jewelry to someone special.
Geologists Day – April 5
This day celebrates the professionals who devote their lives to studying Earth’s materials, processes, and history. It’s also an opportunity to recognize how deeply geology affects daily life—from toothpaste and glass to electronics and building materials.
Why it matters: Much of modern technology relies on minerals discovered, studied, and sourced through geology.
How to celebrate: Thank a geologist, attend a lecture, or encourage young rockhounds to explore geology as a career.
Earth Day – April 22
It doesn’t get much “earthier” than rocks, gems, and minerals. Earth Day is a natural fit for rockhounds, blending appreciation for geological wonders with stewardship of the planet.
Why it matters: Responsible collecting and conservation help preserve sites for future generations.
How to celebrate: Take a mindful collecting trip, visit a natural area, or support organizations that protect geological resources.
Nickel Day – May 16
Nickel Day recognizes one of the world’s most important mined elements. Used by humans for at least 2,000 years, nickel became especially prominent in the 19th century when it appeared widely in American and European coinage.
Why it matters: Nickel remains essential today, particularly in stainless steel, batteries, and modern technologies.
How to celebrate: Examine nickel-bearing minerals or learn how this versatile metal is used today.
Dinosaur Day – June 1
Dinosaurs may have vanished millions of years ago, but they continue to capture our imagination. Dinosaur Day celebrates both what we know—and what we’re still discovering—about these prehistoric creatures.
Why it matters: Fossils provide critical evidence for understanding ancient ecosystems and evolution.
How to celebrate: Visit a museum, read about recent discoveries, or introduce young rockhounds to paleontology.
National Caves & Karst Day – June 6
This day highlights the beauty and importance of caves and karst landscapes. Karst terrain is defined by features such as sinkholes, springs, aquifers, and caves, formed largely through the dissolution of soluble rock like limestone.
Why it matters: Nearly 40 percent of the U.S. drinking water supply comes from karst aquifers, and hundreds of minerals and gems are found in cave environments.
How to celebrate: Learn about local cave systems or support cave conservation efforts.
World Oceans Day – June 8
For many rockhounds, the shoreline is a favorite collecting ground. World Oceans Day celebrates the vast bodies of water that shape coastlines and deliver treasures such as shells, sea glass, and wave-polished stones.
Why it matters: Ocean processes play a major role in erosion, sediment transport, and rock formation.
How to celebrate: Enjoy a beach walk, identify finds, and practice responsible beachcombing.
International Drop a Rock Day – July 3
This cheerful holiday combines creativity with kindness. Participants paint rocks with images or messages and hide them for others to find, creating moments of surprise and connection.
Why it matters: The activity builds community and introduces geology to people who might not otherwise engage with rocks.
How to celebrate: Host a rock-painting party, hide stones locally, or join an online painted-rock group.
International Rock Day – July 13
Sometimes called World Rock Day, this observance is devoted to honoring rocks as one of the most fundamental elements of human survival. From tools and shelter to art and infrastructure, rocks have shaped civilization.
Why it matters: Nearly every aspect of modern life traces back to geologic materials.
How to celebrate: Share your favorite specimens or reflect on how rocks influence daily life.
National Pet Rock Day – September 6
This tongue-in-cheek holiday commemorates the 1975 novelty that resulted in more than one million “pet rocks” sold. Today, it’s celebrated with humor and nostalgia.
Why it matters: It’s a reminder that rocks can inspire joy—even without instructions.
How to celebrate: Adopt a new pet rock or bring one to a themed gathering.
Collect Rocks Day – September 16
Observed since 2015, Collect Rocks Day celebrates the diversity of rocks and the many places they’re found, no matter where in the world you live.
Why it matters: Collecting encourages curiosity about local geology and global Earth processes.
How to celebrate: Add a new specimen to your collection or explore a nearby site.
National Fossil Day – October 14
National Fossil Day is devoted to appreciating fossils and the stories they tell. Of the roughly 250,000 fossilized species identified so far, scientists estimate that millions more remain undiscovered.
Why it matters: Fossils offer irreplaceable insights into life’s history on Earth.
How to celebrate: Join a fossil hunt, visit a museum, or learn about fossil laws and ethics.
St. Barbara’s Day – December 4
Observed in many mining regions around the world, St. Barbara’s Day honors the patron saint of miners, quarry workers, and others who work closely with Earth’s materials. The day has deep roots in European mining traditions and is still recognized by geological and mining communities today.
Why it matters: Mining history is inseparable from mineralogy and geology, and this observance highlights the human stories behind resource discovery and extraction.
How to celebrate: Learn about local mining history, visit a historic mine or museum, or explore minerals tied to classic mining districts.
Bonus: Other Ways to Celebrate Rocks & Earth Science
In addition to formal holidays, many rockhounds look forward to annual events that bring the community together.
Major Gem & Mineral Shows
Some of the most anticipated gatherings of the year include the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show® (February) and the Denver Gem & Mineral Show (September). These events aren’t official holidays, but for many collectors, they’re highlights of the rockhound calendar. Readers can find dates and locations for local and regional shows in Rock & Gem’s popular show dates section. Click the link here to submit a show listing. Listings are live on the site once they are published. They may appear in the print magazine depending on space and publishing dates. Remember to submit shows early, as magazines go to the printer months before they appear in homes.
Celebrating Geology All Year Long
Whether you’re marking one special day or celebrating them all, these rockhound holidays are reminders that geology is woven into everyday life. Use them as opportunities to explore, learn, share, and appreciate the planet beneath your feet.
This story about rockhound holidays appeared in Rock & Gem magazine. Click here to subscribe. Original story by Chris Bond. Updated yearly to reflect current dates and holidays.
