The University of Arizona Alfie Norville Gem & Mineral Museum - Tucson, Arizona

Devin Johnson

Simply outstanding. Went with a friend and we thought it’d be a small museum, but wow were we wrong. This place is HUGE! And the specimens are incredible. I’ve been to many museums and only in Houston have I seen a collection this large. I’ve also never seen the molecular structure modeled next to samples, that was so cool. Honestly one of the most impressive museums I’ve ever been to. I will absolutely be back next time I’m in town.

Lee Mackay

This place is so cool! We'll curated and beautiful collection! Worth the visit.

Katherine Feltmann

Excellent collection and fun, interactive displays. Also housed in an amazing architectural wonder in Tucson’s presidio

Scott Erb - Donna Dufault

We really were surprised by this place, it was a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. This collection is stunning. It’s one of the most well rounded and truly compelling museums we’ve seen in a while. It was one beautiful specimen or example after another. And the docents were easy to chat with and answered all our questions- it was very enjoyable. Highly recommend this gem.

Paka M. (Shaka Paka)

This place is a hidden gem in the heart of Tucson (pun intended! lol). This is a great place to go to learn about all facets of rocks, gems and minerals. The docents are very helpful, if not, a little intrusive. We really didn't want to be constantly asked which one we liked best at every section and simply wanted to do our own thing, but he was only trying to be helpful so I won't hold that against him. The facility is very well kept and the displays are outstanding. I highly recommend visiting the Gem & Mineral Museum. Especially before the annual Rock and Gem show so that you can get an idea of all of the many varieties of things that will be on display by the vendors.

Victoria Carella

A must-see. The mineral specimens on display are absolutely beautiful. There are educational displays throughout. The volunteers are very helpful and knowledgeable. Easy access and parking. Take the time to visit this museum!

Amy Swaby

Amazing collections of minerals. Some really cool specimens!!!

Michael Grzelecki

Wow, what a great museum!

I understand this collection has recently relocated from the Flandrau Center to the Historic Courthouse. The building itself is a cool setting, and the museum inside is great. A very open, modern space with a great collection.

They have a large variety of gems, minerals, meteorites, jewelry, mining, history, etc. A bit if something for everyone. The layout is nice and easy to follow, and they have very friendly and helpful Docents throughout to answer questions.

There are some truly beautiful specimens that make the trip worth it by themselves, and they are continuously building and adding to the collection. They said they will also periodically change out items that are on loan (around 20% of the displays), so the collection is always changing.

Overall I'm very impressed, and would definitely come back. They also validate parking for the Presidio parking garage! Worth a visit for sure, and you can check out the rest of the Historic Courthouse after!