(Cedar Rapids, Iowa) – On June 17, nearly 200 artifacts featuring fiery red garnets from the National Museum in Prague return to NCSML in “Brilliant Bohemian Garnets” for their last and only stop in the United States before going on permanent display in the Czech Republic.

Bohemian garnets are called pyrope (from the Greek words pyr for “fire” and ops for “eye”) and are found in Central Bohemia. This variety is known for a high degree of clarity and light refractivity, which gives the gemstone its sparkle and glow.

The exhibition features six different themes: Mining, Natural Motifs, Folk Jewelry, Sports, Personal Life, and Religion. Marvel at raw garnets and learn how they are transformed to adorn antique and modern jewelry, folkwear, awards, personal artifacts, and religious objects that can be found on display in the exhibition.

Within “Brilliant Bohemian Garnets,” find an interactive “mining area” where visitors can search for their own garnet (while supplies last).

The exhibition runs from June 17, 2023 – January 14, 2024. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind exhibition of priceless garnets from the National Museum in Prague. For more information, visit ncsml.org or call (319) 362-8500.