Museum Summer Hours: 9AM to 4PM • Open all days

Free Lecture: Arizona’s Four Peaks Amethyst Mine

Free Lecture

Kurt Cavano will present “Arizona’s Four Peaks Amethyst Mine.” Many people do not realize that there is a working amethyst mine located in the Four Peaks region that can be seen from the museum. Mine owner Kurt Cavano will be sharing with listeners the history of this mine and his adventures in working it. Kurt is the owner of the Arizona Four Peaks Amethyst Mine. He has been a jewelry-making, stonecutting rockhound for almost 50 years and has owned the mine for the last 15 years.

When he is not digging for amethyst in the Four Peaks Mountains he has a day job in New York where he serves as Founder, Vice Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer of GT Nexus, Inc., a supply chain technology company with over 900 employees in 8 different countries around the world. Featured as one of World Trade Magazine’s 50 most influential people, Kurt is a frequent speaker and writer on topics concerning international trade and global supply chain management. But what he likes to talk about most is the geology and history of the Four Peaks Amethyst Mine. He is clearly confused as to what world (mining/jewelry or software/international trade) he belongs in. He hopes to figure that out soon. For his presentation, he will also be bringing along rock samples and beautiful jewelry made with amethyst from his mine. For one day only, the jewelry will be sold at reduced prices (10% off).

  • February 2, 2023 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
  • 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

SUGGESTIONS FOR LECTURE ATTENDEES:

  • Bring your own lawn chair;
  • Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen;
  • Please, no smoking;
  • Please don’t leave your dog in vehicle;
  • Coffee and cookies will be available for purchase with all of the proceeds going to the museum for continuing educational programs;
  • Come early and have lunch on the grounds. Food will be available for purchase.

Fundraising raffles

As a self-supporting organization, we rely on revenue generated by our gift shops, events, and fundraisers. At each week’s lecture we hold a 50/50 raffle, with half the cash collected going to the lucky winner. Second prize is a lecture-related item from our gift shop. Raffle tickets are priced at 1 for $1, or 6 for $5. Winning tickets are drawn from tickets sold that day. Winner must be present to win.

The season-long raffle prize is a solid gold coin minted with gold from the Old Wasp Mine, just up Apache Trail, and includes a certificate of authenticity. Tickets are $5 each. At the last lecture on March 30, the holder of the winning ticket will be announced. The winner need not be present to win.

Buy a VIP Card

The Museum’s popular Free Lecture Series is actually an expensive endeavor. Many staff hours go into reserving speakers and some scholars have fees attached to their appearance. We have created a special Lecture Series VIP card for those who would like to support these events. On Thursdays only, from January 5 through March 30, VIP card holders are entitled to 50¢ coffee. Also included is a one-time-only free hot dog. But wait, there’s more... VIP Cardholders get a 10% discount in the Gift Shop on Thursdays and special shaded seating in the Amphitheater. The cost is $30 per card and it’s available in the Gift Shop.

Amphitheater

The amphitheater and other outdoor locations on the Museum's property are available for outdoor events including small catered receptions. It is truly magnificent at twilight.

Imagine an intimate romantic wedding, candle-lit banquet or musical presentation with the Superstition Mountain at sunset as your backdrop!

Learn more