Discover some of the finest specimens of gems, jewellery and minerals displayed by gem traders and merchants throughout the historic pavilions and showgrounds.

This year's show also features a range of jewellery workshops, on site fossicking lessons, field trips in the picturesque Glen Innes Highlands and the UNE Discovery Voyager.

"The committee is looking forward to the upcoming Minerama which is shaping up to be a great weekend for the whole community and visitors," Peter Chaffey, Minerama committee president, said.

"We have worked hard this past year, amidst some challenging times in Glen Innes, to put together what promises to be a great weekend, with new workshops, a range of field trips in some great locations, a high caliber of traders and merchants and hands on activities for the kids.

"We encourage everyone to come along and enjoy the show this year," he said.

Daily fossicking lessons will be available at the showgrounds for a gold coin donation for beginners, children and families with the chance to find gems such as jellybean crystals, crystals and topaz.

Enjoy a range of jewellery workshops, learn a new craft and take away your very own keepsake.

Workshops include Viking knitting, silversmithing and gem wrapping. For workshop information and bookings visit minerama.com.au.

Keen adventurers can try their luck at our region's best kept secret fossicking sites. There are field trips available for all experience levels over the three days, but bookings are essential.

Minerama's celebratory dinner will be held at the Hereford Steakhouse Char Grill on Saturday, March 14, where dinner will include a two course-buffet and live entertainment by Christine Davies.

The UNE Discovery Voyager team will be delivering interactive, exploratory and play-based workshop experiences in science on Friday 13 th March for school students. Workshops will be held on Friday, March 13 and will run for 45 minutes. The cost is $4.50 per student.

On Saturday, March 14, you can visit the 'Ask an Expert' booth to pick the brains of UNE Geologists and Palaeontologists.

UNE academics will be happy to answer your questions and examine any rocks or fossils or the kids can pick up an entry form for the treasure hunt and you will be on your way searching for amazing fossils, minerals and other geological wonders. And yes, there will be prizes!

Minerama is Proudly supported by Glen Innes Severn Council and Glen Innes Highlands.

Contact the Rest Point Motor Inn and Hereford Steakhouse Char Gill for bookings for the celebratory dinner on 6732 2255. Or for details on the UNE Discovery Voyager workshop, phone Jean Holley on 6773 3511.