The Bitterroot Conglomerate
Newsletter of the Bitterroot Gem & Mineral Society
Vol. XXIX issue 4
Presidents Column
Mike is very busy with show items and with his employment so will have a report later.
Mike McConnell
Editors Notes
I want to thank Wayne Farley for publishing and mailing the Newsletter for the month of April. I was out of town for the first part of April and may need to call upon Wayne a couple of times again later.
The show is coming up in two weeks and is coming together pretty well but we need all the help we can get. Call Steve Veith at 363-2632 to volunteer.
It is disturbing to read in the AFMS and NW Federation newsletters, and other publications, what our Senators and groups of ultra environmentalists are doing to lock up the Public Lands and hamper or prohibit our use of many places for rock collecting.
I will need reports from the Chairperson of the various Committees during the 1st week of each month so they can be included in the newsletter.
The Editor is not responsible for the accuracy of articles accepted, items for sale, nor are the opinions expressed therein necessarily those of the Club Officers, members and/or the Club Editor.
BGMS Minutes Apr. 13, 2010
Our meeting started out with our Program put on by Jo Farley. It was a video on Gemstones of America – Natures Originals.. What wonderful and beautiful pictures. Well known experts such as Bob Jones and John White who is with the Smithsonian in Washington DC were just a couple of the people presenting the video.
The Earth is made up (from the inside out) of the Core, then the Mantle and Upper Mantle and finally the Crust. It started with magna and alluvial deposits which are above the ground mining. The Ponderosa Mine in Oregon had Sunstone or Labradoreite which are fantastic colors and found close to the surface. Other mines included the Red Beryl from Utah. This has the same characteristics as Emeralds and thus is sometimes called the “Red Emerald”. The only place in the world (I think). Next was the 1820’s Maine Tourmaline mine of Mt. Mica Mine. There the stones are primarily cranberry and greens in color. Beautiful specimens were shown. John White referred to some minerals being so Beautiful that they invite altering, thus are called “Happy Accidents” or Gemstones.
There were pictures from the Himalaya Mine in San Diego County, CA. Again Tourmaline which had the unique feature of having a Blue Cap on a Red Tourmaline. The El Dorado Bar Mine in Montana is a Placer Mine and currently stands about 200 feet above the current River site. A Miner is someone trying to make money out of the ground. The many minerals are usually altered by either FACETING them or making CABOCHEONS. This is usually based on their hardness, but there are the exceptions. Their recommendation for wanting to join the many that love this hobby and want to get involved is to Read Books on the subjects and then start to study maps. It was a Great Video and appreciated by all in attendance.
We then took a quick break for our wonderful refreshments prepared by Sharlene Farley. Yummmmm
The meeting was called to order by President, Mike Mc Connell. Following the Pledge of Allegiance to our Flag, Mike started the meeting. We had 21 Members and 3 Guests. Two of the members – Ruth Baker of Stevensville and Jackie Smartt from Corvallis joined tonight. The Minutes were approved as printed in our Newsletter. Wayne Farley, our Treasurer gave his report, showing an ending balance of $7539.21. A motion and second was made to accept the Treasurers Report.
Committee Reports:
Show: Steve Veith reported they have just about completed the all preparations for the show. Dates again; MAY 15th [times are 9am to 6pm] and 16th [time is 10am to 5pm] with the Pot Luck Dinner for the Dealers on that Friday night, the 14th. There are 18 Confirmed Dealers. AD Time: There will be a Prize for the Member who sells the most. Steve will call the individual Committee heads rather than hold a full Show meeting. Also, the Floor Plan layout is completed. Wayne will go to Bozeman and bring back the cases for our show.
Jo asked for a show of hands as to who all will put some of their things in a “Club Case”? There were about a dozen members who will participate with them bringing in their items to our next meeting.
Don Tibbs and Dan Farley will take the Guard Duties on Friday night. Thank You…And, Harvey Sharp will be arranging for the tables. Mary Ann brought up the idea of our Raffle. It was decided to just charge $1.00 per ticket or 6 for $5.00. The drawing will take place on Saturday with the smallest up to the Grand Prize Raffle being the last number chosen. Show admission will be $2 per individual and $5 per family. Dianne asked for volunteers to cook the Turkey and Ham(s). Pat and Don Tibbs will do the Turkey and Jo Farley said she would cook the hams. ALL the rest of our MEMBERS are asked to Please bring whatever dish you would like to and to have it there by 4:00 to 4:30 pm on Friday night-ready to eat at 5PM…
Other REPORTS: Don Tibbs talked about the Stamps and passed around how they were to be cut. Wayne will bring what we have done to Washington to the NW Federation meeting.
Don then reported he had the Scholarship Forms out to the schools. With a hope that there will be several Students interested. They must be completed and returned by May 15th.
OLD BUSINESS: None
NEW BUSINESS: None
The 50/50 drawing with a total of $14.50 was won by Steve Veith, the winner.
The Mix-up in prizes at the last meeting was clarified by Dianne Ayres, who was given a present brought by Bill Morelle, was given back and the door prize from Feb. was given to her instead. The Beautiful Turquoise Belt Buckle from Bill will be put in with the Raffle Prizes. Dianne will bring the Door Prize for our April 27th meeting.
Mike’s Special Member Prize was won by a member not in attendance, sooooo it will stay for the next meeting and we hope the one who’s name is drawn WILL be here.
Being No further Business, the motion to adjourn was made by Wayne Farley and seconded by Jo Farley
Respectfully Submitted,
Dianne Ayres, Secretary
BGMS Minutes Apr. 27, 2010
The meeting was called to order by President, Mike Mc Connell. Following the Pledge of Allegiance to our Flag, Mike started the meeting. We had 25 Members and 3 Guests. One new member from last meeting – Mark Halan came tonight. Also joining were Mike and Jenet’s Family, Robert and Laura Mc Connell from Victor. The Minutes were approved as printed in our Newsletter. Wayne Farley, our Treasurer gave his report, showing an ending balance of $7543.71. A motion and second was made to accept the Treasurers Report.
Committee Reports:
Show: Steve Veith reported we are completing show preparations. Dates again; MAY 15th [times are 9am to 6pm] and 16th [time is 10am to 5pm] with the Pot Luck Dinner for the Dealers on that Friday night, the 14th. There are 18 Confirmed Dealers. However one of them has requested a refund and will not be coming. Discussion followed and a motion and seconded to send his ½ amount (actually his deposit) be given back to him. But, we do need to write this clarification in our Dealer Contracts.
ADS: Ads are being sold and will continue to go for a little while longer. Both Pam Myers and Jenet Mc Connell will be the co-Chairmen. Dianne asked for someone to do the mashed potatoes to go with the turkey. MaryAnn Scanland and Myra Peltier were wonderful and volunteered. ALL Others, please bring whatever you like to make-salads-desserts- rolls-butter-olives, etc. If the food can be at the First Interstate building between 4:00 and 4:30 pm we will plan to eat at 5:00 pm. Pat Tibbs is passing around the sign-up sheets for the times to serve at the show. Steve will call the individual Committee heads rather than hold a full Show meeting. Also, the Floor Plan layout is completed.
Jo asked for a show of hands as to who all will put some of their things in a “Club Case”. Only a few brought their goodies tonight. You will need to get them to Jo early to give her time to do the assembling and labels.
Harvey Sharp will be arranging for the tables. Dianne suggested we contact the Grammar Schools and talk with the Science Teachers to let the kids know about the show and the Dinosaurs in particular. Harvey Sharp has already contacted all the Hamilton Schools. If any Member knows of a Science Teacher, do talk to them and ask for their help getting word to the children in their school. A reminder that if You sign up to work, You will be allowed to be admitted free for that day.
Other REPORTS: Don Tibbs gave a quick recap of the Scholarships. The deadline is May 15th. He also talked about the Stamps. Many members brought in what they had cut. This is an on-going project and will be collected and passed on to the NW Federation as we get them. Wayne brought those that we had done to Washington and they were greatly appreciated. He stated that many of these stamps are going to people in Iceland and Norway. They compile them into books.
OLD BUSINESS: Jo reminded all in attendance that we still need people to put on Programs. Wayne as several more videos he can/will bring. But it would be great to mix these up with some live demonstrations or hands on type programs. Harvey Sharp can do a Gold program. ANY Volunteers???
NEW BUSINESS: Wayne mentioned that Pete Knudson from Butte may come over if we want and ask him. Also a Chris Lipfield who is a Master Silversmith would come and teach a 2-day class on making things for $60/person.
August will be our annual Picnic. Jo Farley will not be able to have it this year. Gene and Dianne Ayres offered to have it at their home in Hamilton. This will be a Pot Luck Dinner and an Auction. More information will come later after the show.
Wayne gave his NW Federation report stating there were approximately 100 people at the meeting. They WILL be having a NW Show in both 2011 and 2012. The 2011 show will be about half way between Portland, OR and Seattle, WA. More Later also.
A break for our yummy goodies (Thank You Sharlene) and on to the Program.
THE PROGRAM: a Video from Wayne Farley on “Capturing the Minerals”. This was a compilation of pictures from 3 different Photographers. Fantastic pictures and each talked of the subjects as they put them on the screen. The Experts were Michael Gainrich, Joe Budd and Jeff Scorill. Minerals were from all over the World, and included these countries and states: Canada, Chekz Republic, Congo, Texas, Colorado, Tennessee, Afghanistan, Peru, Pakistani, Ukraine, China, Seri Lanka, Madagascar, Germany, Russia, Brazil, Arizona, Kellogg, Idaho, Mexico, India and Peru. If anyone is into details of how to capture the maximum in a stone or mineral, this is a wonderful video to again look at. Thank You, Wayne.
The 50/50 drawing with a total of $26.50 was won by Don Contraman.
The Door Prize was won by Ron Livsey. (who gets to bring one to our next meeting).
Mike’s Special Member Prize was won by MaryAnn Scanland. See, it pays to come to the Meetings.
No further Business, the motion to adjourn was made by Jo Farley and seconded by Don Tibbs.
Respectfully Submitted,
Dianne Ayres, Secretary
Field Trip or Show Report
The following is a special Field Trip for those that have the time and can travel some distance.
MEMORIAL WEEKEND BLUE FOREST CAMPOUT and FIELDTRIPS
The Multi-Federation trip is scheduled for May 28-June 2nd, there are several trips scheduled for different locations within a 40-50 mile radius of Fontanels, Wyoming (Blue forest petrified forest area)
The base camp will be at Slate Creek Campground, just east of Fontenelle, next to the Green River. This is a no fee campground with fire pits, tables and restrooms. We will post the area with signs marking camp area on Thursday May 27th. Trips will leave from the camp to the Blue Forest Dig area, one trip to the Eden Valley area, and others, Most of the trips will be related to collecting Petrified Wood. At the base camp we will have maps available for other areas. Like Algae, Turitella Agate, Agates and Fee Fossil areas in Kemmerer area and the Jade areas. There are millions of acres of wide open country, most of which will be BLM ground. You are expected to follow all rules on the collecting of petrified wood on public land.
For those not camping at Slate Creek and need a Motel there is one at Farson ,about 35 minutes to the east Sitzmans, (307) 273 9246, this is a small motel only 6 rooms so make your reservations now. Rates = 1 person $50+ tax, 2 per $58.+ tax (one Queen Bed) 2 Beds $65.plus tax. Farson also has Gas and Groceries. There are more motels in Kemmerer also: Fossil Butte Motel (307) 877-3996, Fairview Motel (307) 877-3938, Frontier Suites (307) 877-3377, Energy Inn (307) 877-6901, Antler’s Inn (307-877-4461.
There is also an RV Park in Farson and several in Kemmerer. Kemmerer is about 25 miles from our base camp. You can also get gas and some supplies in Fontenelle.
The schedule for the weekend will be as listed. On Friday a group will leave for the Blue Forest dig area at 9.am. Then on Saturday at 9 a.m. to Blue Forest and at 6pm we will have a potluck and camp fire, get to know each other and share stories.
On Sunday a trip to Eden valley area will leave at 8:30 a.m. Sunday evening is set aside for a swap session, so bring some good trade material. Monday there will be another unnamed trip leaving at 9 a.m. and an open day for you to go anywhere you like.
A few safety notes: The elevation of the area is around 7000 ft. and the days can be nice, nights can be cold. The wind blows most of the time in this country so bring warm clothes. It is a little early for bugs, BUT bring bug spray anyway just in case. I have never heard of or seen a rattlesnake in the area.
Tools needed: Shovel and pick, Rock pick, Gloves, and Steel Probe. Hat and sun screen There are lots of sandy roads in the area and ATV’s can be used, stay on the sand and off the brush or plants, and please follow all local rules and regulations. If you pack it in pack it out. And most of all have fun.
See you all at Slate Creek Campground Doug True e-mail: dtruefossils@yahoo.com
Phone (406) 670-0506
Mining Committee Report
None until at least May.
MT Council Report
None
N.W. Federation Report
Included in Minutes.
Sunshine Committee
None
Programs
None
SAFETY FIRST
from Bill Klose, EFMLS Safety Chair
SILVER,GOLD AND METALSMITHING,SOLDERING/BRAZING, CASTING AND
ELECTROPLATING SAFETY
Silver brazing alloy, commonly called “silver solder” is used to join metals and alloys such as silver, brass, bronze, carbon steel, stainless steel and dissimilar metal combinations. Fumes generated during brazing from the metals and brazing fluxes can be a serious health hazard. Use fluoride free fluxes such as borax fluxes and avoid zinc chloride and rosin fluxes if at all possible. Cadmium in silver brazing alloys vaporizes when overheated and produces cadmium oxide, a highly toxic substance, the fumes of which if inhaled into the respiratory tract can cause pulmonary distress, short-ness of breath, and in cases of sever exposure, death. Some of the silver brazing filler metals containing cadmium are: BAg-1, BAg-1a, BAg-2, and BAg-2a. Since the boiling point of Cadmium is 1412 degrees F., brazing can be carried on “safely” using BAg-1 and BAg-la classes of filler metal at temperatures below 1400 degrees F. BAg-2 and BAg-3 have recommended brazing temperatures of 1295 - 1550 degrees F. and 1270 - 1500 degrees f. respectfully. Since temperatures in the upper portion of these ranges can be reached, provide adequate local exhaust ventilation or individual air-supplied respirators. Solder fume and pollutant absorbers are also available with internal fans and filters for use at the work site and do not require the vacuum hoses of exhaust ventilation systems. General ventilation systems only spread the fumes and pollutants. Lead, Antimony, and Cadmium solders are not recommended as these metals are highly toxic and an inhalation hazard. Flux, filler, and base material fumes are irritating to the lungs and the eyes. Zinc chloride is corrosive and Silver particles can cause a blue-black stain on the skin.
Know the materials that you are brazing and the solders/fillers and fluxes you are using and the manufactures recommended procedures and safety precautions. Use lead free solders for stained glass and slab working and remember “lead free” does not mean that there is no lead present. Lost Wax Casting requires the use of Silica which is highly toxic and cuttlebone dust which is irritating if inhaled, so wear a respirator, gloves, and goggles. Always mix silica in a glove box. Use non silica plaster if possible. Be sure that the cuttlebone is kept clean and wet the sand. Keep the area clean of dust and use a wet mop and rag to clean up. Sodium Silicate is moderately toxic and should not be allowed to come in contact with the skin. When using the centrifuge, make sure to wear a protective face shield and fire proof apron. Remember molten metal can splash and burn. Electroplating, annealing, cleaning, polishing and finishing may require the use of or contact with cyanide plating solution. Cyanide salts are extremely toxic if ingested, inhaled, or if they come in contact with the skin. Gold salts can cause allergic reactions. Hydrogen cyanide forms when acid is added to cyanide which is extremely toxic and can lead to shock, so only use cyanide solution in a laboratory hooded enclosure. Sodium and Potassium cyanide are also extremely toxic. An antidote kit should be available at all times when these chemicals are in use and amyl nitrate administered if poisoning occurs. Seek immediate medical attention after administering the antidote. Remember that cyanide is a hazardous chemical and should be disposed of as a hazardous chemical and not poured down the sink. Do not touch the electrical wires used with electroplating. Safe practices for the brazing, casting, electroplating lab.
1. Provide an adequate well lighted work space for the type of work being performed and the number of individuals involved.
2. Provide fire extinguishers, first aid and antidote kits. Have a sink with running water available and if a lot of people are involved, install an eye wash station at the sink. Aloe plants or creams may be used to soothe minor burns.
3. Provide proper local ventilation and masks or respirators for the work area and type of work to be performed. Clean ventilation vacuum hoses and replace filters in solder fume and pollutant absorbers periodically
and dispose of the cleaning materials and filters properly.
4. Safety glasses, goggles, or face shields should be available and used where appropriate. Wear appropriate clothing, gloves, and aprons to protect the skin.
5. Do not handle your work piece, fire brick, fire screen, or heating pad with your bare hands. Use tongs or a heat resistant non asbestos glove.
6. Be familiar with the safe operation of all the power and hand tools in the shop, such as hammers, drills, pliers, jeweler’s saws, tongs, etc., before using. Do not touch any electrical wires and know how to shut down and electrically isolate all power equipment.
For Sale. An ore car from the Betty O’Neil Mine near Battle Mountain, Nevada. In good shape. $500.00. Contact Posey at 961-4116
For Sale. Jim Rayner in Hamilton has a 12” Rock Saw for $500 and a Fram Tom Tock Grinder Set-up with 2 diamond wheels, and a 10” trim saw with new blade, new motor on a steel stand for $800. 375-0663
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SAVE USED POSTAGE STAMPS FOR CANCER RESEARCH!
GIVE A HOOT - DON"T POLLUTE! KEEP MONTANA GREEN
