Young Geologist Spotlight: Isabella “Izzy” Mozingo

Isabella Mozingo (left) in front of her display with Angela Piller, Collections Manager (right).

The Rice Museum is pleased to feature a special educational display created by Isabella “Izzy” Mozingo, a junior member of the Tualatin Valley Gem Club Juniors program. Izzy created the display to earn the American Federation of Mineral Societies Juniors Showmanship badge, which recognizes young people who develop and share their own public educational exhibits.

Isabella Mozingo’s display of petrified wood and amethyst.

Izzy’s display explores two fascinating natural wonders: petrified wood and amethyst. Visitors can discover how these specimens form, learn what makes them unique, and enjoy Izzy’s thoughtful presentation of her chosen topics.

Close-up of amethyst portion of the display.

The display will be on view in the Community Room at the Rice Museum for one month. We invite museum visitors to stop by and celebrate Izzy’s accomplishment while learning more about these beautiful geological treasures.

Isabella Mozingo’s display label.

Learn More About the Junior Geologist Program

The Tualatin Valley Gem Club’s Junior Geologist program is designed for children ages 5 and older who are interested in rocks, minerals, fossils, and the natural world. The program typically meets at Brookwood Library in Hillsboro from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.; exact dates are still to be determined.

The program is open to both members and non-members, subject to space availability. Parents or guardians are required to attend with their child.

To ask questions or RSVP, please visit the Tualatin Valley Gem Club contact page and select or mention “Gordon / Junior’s program.” Include the names and number of people attending in the message.

The Tualatin Valley Gem Club is a nonprofit educational organization serving rockhounds, lapidaries, jewelers, faceters, and other earth science enthusiasts throughout the west side of the Portland area.