Local Lapidary Society Secretary Turns Disaster Into Opportunity, Earns Top Awards at Convention

When the Eaton Fire swept through earlier this year, it destroyed Sue Dekany’s carefully curated rock collection that she had been preparing for competition. But rather than abandon her plans, the Pasadena Lapidary Society secretary decided to turn disaster into opportunity.

Dekany transformed her fire-damaged specimens into an educational display about how extreme heat affects different minerals and rocks. The creative approach paid off spectacularly at the annual California Federation of Mineralogical Societies Show and Convention in Lancaster on May 10-11, where she won both “Best of Show” and the “President’s Award” in the novice category.

“Out of the ashes, however, Sue thought the remnants would make an interesting educational display. Boy, was she right!” the society said in announcing the wins.

Dekany’s observations revealed fascinating details about how fire transforms geological specimens. Many rocks became heavily oxidized, including pyrite, jaspers, onyx and serpentine. All metal components lost their protective polish, while obsidian fractured in spiral patterns but otherwise appeared normal. Quartz crystals and fluorite turned white and brittle from the heat.

Surprisingly, an apatite cabochon – a polished, dome-shaped gemstone – survived the fire completely unchanged.

The competition also brought recognition to longtime society members Sandie and Tony Fender, who received the Golden Bear Award for outstanding service to the statewide federation. The retired educators and lifelong rock collectors have held various leadership positions in the organization and belong to several gem and mineral clubs throughout Southern California.

The California Federation of Mineralogical Societies represents more than 100 gem and rock collecting clubs across California, Nevada and Arizona. The annual competition draws entries from hobbyists and experts who display everything from raw minerals to polished jewelry.

Dekany’s fire-damaged display will be featured again when the Pasadena Lapidary Society holds its annual gem and mineral show Sept. 20-21 at the Arcadia Masonic Center.

Founded in 1946, the Pasadena Lapidary Society educates members and the community about mineralogy, earth sciences and jewelry-making while promoting responsible mineral collecting practices. The group organizes field trips, workshops, school presentations and monthly public meetings throughout the year.

For more about the Society, visit https://pasadenalapidary.org/