Mineral Day at Schneckenstein

A Mineral Known Worldwide

The Schneckenstein is one of Germany's most famous geological monuments: a 23-meter-high rock block in the Vogtland region, where topazes have been found since the 16th century – these gemstones adorned, among other things, the jewellery of Saxon Queen Amalie Auguste. The historic mining site is located directly on the municipal border of Muldenhammer in the Vogtland district and is considered a landmark of the region.

Mineral Exchange on Whit Sunday

Once a year, traditionally on Whit Sunday, the neighbouring Vogtland-Bohemian Mineral Centre hosts the Mineral Day. Collectors, trading partners, and dealers from all over Germany and neighbouring Czechia present minerals, gemstones, fossils, and jewellery. For mineral enthusiasts, it's a must-attend event in the spring calendar.

Hands-on Mining History

Admission to the Mineral Centre is free on Mineral Day. Accessible are:

• the Topaz Hall with over 300 topaz specimens from around the world (opened in 2009)
• the visitor mine "Grube Tannenberg"
• the Schneckenstein topaz rock itself, normally only accessible with restrictions

A special exhibition rounds off the day – with a changing theme, often related to the regional mineralogy and mining history of the Ore Mountains-Vogtland border area.

A Family Day of Nature Experience

Mineral Day is not only aimed at collectors but also at families with children who want to explore the world of minerals. The tranquil, nature-oriented atmosphere of Schneckenstein, nestled in the wooded Vogtland, makes the day a relaxing excursion destination. The Vogtland region in the state of Saxony, with its blend of mining history, folk music tradition, and low mountain nature, gains profile through such events.