About the W.M. Keck Earth Science and Mineral Engineering Museum:
The W.M. Keck Earth Science and Mineral Engineering Museum is packed with an amazing collection of mineral specimens, rocks, fossils, photographs, and historic mining artifacts from Nevada and many other locations around the world. The early history of mining and mining districts in Nevada (like the Comstock and Tonopah) is emphasized, along with the collection of beautiful examples of nature's mineral creations. The W.M. Keck Museum is a hidden gem right here in Reno and well worth a visit.
The Mackay Silver Collection:
You won't believe the Mackay Silver Collection until you see it. The W.M. Keck Museum displays many of the 1250 piece set completed for Comstock silver baron John W. Mackay in 1878. The set was crafted by Tiffany and Company of New York from half a ton of silver from Mackay's mines. The set is artistically beautiful and a classic example of conspicuous consumption among Nevada mining's richest families.
Visiting the W.M. Keck Earth Science and Mineral Engineering Museum:
The W.M. Keck Earth Science and Mineral Engineering Museum is in the Mackay School of Mines building on the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) campus. Admission is free. It is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., closed on weekends and UNR holidays. You can park near the information booth at the Center Street entrance to UNR, or in the parking garage north of the Mackay School of Mines building. To schedule a group tour or after-hours tour, call (775) 784-4528. The actual UNR street address is 1664 N. Virginia St., Reno, NV 89557.
Rockhounding Nevada:
Learn about some of Nevada's best rockhounding sites with this Falcon Guide book by William A. Kappele. Rockhounding Nevada is 156 pages with descriptions, maps, and photos.
Geology Underfoot in Central Nevada:
Learn about Nevada's geology with maps, photos and expert descriptions. Geology Underfoot in Central Nevada has 320 pages of detailed information about Nevada geology. Authors are Harry F. Filkorn, Richard L. Orndorff, and Robert W. Wieder.
