Hall of Gems and Minerals Opens
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PrintThe newly modernized Hall of Gems and Minerals in the Natural History Building is dedicated by Secretary Leonard Carmichael. Mrs. William F. Foshag, wife of the late curator of geology, cuts the ribbon. Later that year, the newly acquired Hope Diamond, a 44.5 carat blue diamond, was placed on display, spotlighted against a dark-red velvet in "a centrally located, specifically designed case," and immediately became the highlight of the hall.
Chronology of Smithsonian History
Institutional History Division, Smithsonian Institution Archives, 600 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20024-2520, SIHistory@si.edu
July 31, 1958