LIFESTYLES: Welcome to a journey to a fascinating mineral event Published June 3, 2011 By Courtesy Freisen Mineral Club RAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany -- The Freisen Mineral Club will sponsor its 28th annual International Mineral Fair 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 5 in Freisen's town hall, called Bruchwaldhalle. For centuries, the Idar-Oberstein, Baumholder and Freisen regions have been known for their exceptional mineral deposits. The mining of gemstones - bringing agates, rock crystals, amethysts and many other splendid stones to light - was a major factor in the development of the city of Idar-Oberstein. "This year's mineral fair will definitely motivate again many hobby mineralogists, mineral collectors and gemstone lovers for a visit to Freisen," said Wolfgang Diehl, a member of the Freisen Mineral Club. "They can explore a fascinating world and admire and purchase such beautiful and remarkable minerals as agates, smoked quartz, amethysts, petrified wood, and other splendid stones as well as jewelry." Exhibitors will be from various European countries, as well as from the local area. At the same time, the club's own mineral museum, located only 200 meters away from the town hall, will be open to the public. There will be no entrance fee for that day. "In many showcases the club's own treasures, mostly from the local Freisen and Baumholder region, can be admired," said Mr. Diehl. Entrance fee to the mineral fair will be €2 for adults. Children under14 will be admitted for free. Freisen is located about 8 kilometers southwest of Baumholder. To get to Freisen, travel from Landstuhl north on autobahn A62. Directional signs are posted and will lead to the event. For more information, visit www.mineralienverein-freisen.de.