Why I Collect the Mineral Calcite

Johan Maertens will explain how calcite has helped him navigate a mineral collector’s mid-life crisis and answer that question: Do I get the blonde, a Ferrari or more calcite? (For him, it was an easy choice … a blonde ferri-calcite .. duh!) Using some of calcite’s properties, its propensity and human traits, he will explore why he became a c.lover (aka calcite lover). The program will discuss the balance between the natural science of calcite as a mineral and the social science of collecting. He hopes the audience will be inspired and return home with a better understanding of what keeps you excited and how to achieve happiness collecting. Johan’s answer, “Calcite is my shrink.”

Johan Maertens currently resides in Cincinnati, but has lived in Philadelphia for many years and is originally from Belgium. This program is sponsored by Louisville’s Mineral and Fossil Interest Club. Program is free with regular interpretive center admission.