Proceeds from the Emmons Quarry raffle and community support fully fund student scholarship opportunities for the internationally recognized workshop
BETHEL, MAINE — The Maine Mineral & Gem Museum (MMGM) is accepting applications through June 19 for two scholarships supporting students who wish to participate in the 2026 Maine Pegmatite Workshop. The event is one of the world’s premier educational programs focused on pegmatite geology, mineralogy, and field research.
The success of MMGM’s recent Emmons Pegmatite Quarry raffle raised more than $2,400 for student education. A generous $2,000 donation from the Capital Mineral Club helped to fully fund this year’s scholarship opportunities.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who purchased raffle tickets and to the Capital Mineral Club for helping make these scholarships possible,” said Kristy Griffin, Executive Director of the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum. “Their support directly helps students gain access to a world-class educational experience and connect with leading researchers working in one of the most important pegmatite regions in the world.”
Three randomly selected raffle winners and their guests will experience a rare opportunity to spend a day rockhounding at the renowned Emmons Pegmatite Quarry in Greenwood, Maine, alongside MMGM Experimental Chemist and Researcher Alex Falster. Winners of the raffle were Leanne W., Lauren B., and Kevin M.
Applications accepted through June 19 for two merit-based scholarships:
The Frank Perham Memorial Scholarship supports one U.S.-based student and provides $1,800 toward participation in the workshop. It honors the legacy of a legendary Maine miner and storyteller whose lifelong contributions to pegmatite mining, mineral collecting, and workshop education helped shape generations of collectors and researchers.
The Alessandro Guastoni Memorial Scholarship supports one international student and provides $2,600 toward participation. It honors the late Italian mineralogist, museum curator, editor, and pegmatite researcher whose contributions to mineralogy and international collaboration left a lasting impact on the field.
Hosted annually by MMGM and the MP² Research Group, the Maine Pegmatite Workshop brings together students, researchers, collectors, and mineral enthusiasts from around the world for an immersive educational experience focused on Maine’s globally significant pegmatite deposits.
Participants divide their time between classroom instruction, field exploration, private collecting opportunities, and visits to active pegmatite quarries throughout western Maine. Internationally recognized experts lead the workshop, offering attendees direct access to some of the region’s most important geological sites.
“One of the workshop’s greatest strengths is its ability to connect students directly with experts and active research,” said Alexander Falster. “These scholarships help ensure that promising students can participate regardless of financial barriers, while also helping cultivate the next generation of mineral scientists, researchers, and educators.”
More Information:
- Workshop registration open to all. More information is available here.
- Students interested in applying must submit their applications by June 19, 2026.
- Scholarship applications and additional information are available online here.
- Questions: info@mainemineralmuseum.org.
About the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum:
Nestled in the heart of Bethel, MMGM is home to the most significant collection of Maine minerals and gemstones in the world. A one-of-a-kind destination where geology, history, science, and education come to life, the museum also boasts one of the rarest displays of meteorites in the world, including Moon and Mars rocks. Through hands-on exhibits, expert storytelling, and cutting-edge research, MMGM inspires curiosity in visitors of all ages. Inviting them to explore the incredible story of our planet — and beyond.
For information on admission and upcoming events, visit www.mainemineralmuseum.org and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @mainemineralmuseum.
