June 17, 2023 – January 14, 2024
A one-of-a-kind exhibition of priceless antique and modern garnets from the National Museum in Prague, Czech Republic is only making one stop in America — and that’s in Iowa. Nearly 200 objects that feature the fiery red gemstones will be on display. Many pieces are garnet-decorated jewelry, but others are household items like eyeglasses, mirrors, or picture frames. Mining and cutting equipment will also be featured.
Bohemian garnets are an important and beloved part of the cultural heritage for people of Czech and Slovak descent. After this special showing at NCSML, the garnets will be put on permanent display at a special new gallery at the Czech National Museum, never to leave the Czech Republic again.
Within “Brilliant Bohemian Garnets,” find an interactive “mining area” where visitors can search for their own garnet (while supplies last).
13 Comments. Leave new
Love my Czech Garnets’
I cherish the garnets I purchased in Prague. My mother was with me when I bought them . When I wear them it brings back heartfelt memories of our travels in the Czech Republic. .
One must read, Willa Caither’s book My Antonia to know more about the Czech / Bohemian immigrants.
Hello! Thank you so much for bringing this book to our attention. We sell the book in our gift store.
Am excited to visit this! I am bringing a special friend who would need wheelchair to enjoy. Is that a possibility?
Hi Molly! Yes, we have two wheelchairs available for use that are normally located in our elevator lobby in our underground parking garage. We are looking forward to your visit!
I loved this exhibit possibly in 2005. I had no garnets back then and I didn’t know anything about them. Now I have four items and one German garnet item, all but one purchased in Prague over two trips. Love them.
Do you have a book on this exhibit that you sell in your store?
Hi Cheryl,
We do not have a book unfortunately, but we do carry postcards and magnets in our museum store that feature some of the garnets from Brilliant Bohemian Garnets. They are not online, but you can stop in if you are local or call 319-362-8500 x114 or x100 to order.
Thank you!
Is the interactive mining area of the exhibit still available?
It sure is! Come visit for your chance to find your own garnet!
Do you sell Czech garnet crosses? I am looking for 3 for granddaughters. Barbara Bruno abbruno@att.net
Hi Barbara, we do sell garnet crosses. A member of our Store will be in touch with you soon!