The Var's meet-up for mineralogy and palaeontology enthusiasts
A major event for mineral, fossil, meteorite and natural-stone jewellery enthusiasts, La Garde's salon celebrates its 41st edition at the Gérard Philip hall. French and international exhibitors, rare pieces and discoveries for all audiences: a reference event in the Var over two days.
For over 40 years, La Garde has hosted in spring one of the Var's greatest salons dedicated to mineralogy, palaeontology, meteoritics and natural-stone jewellery. For this 41st edition, the Gérard Philip hall turns into Aladdin's cave for lovers of rocks, crystals, fossils and gems, drawing French and international exhibitors, seasoned collectors and curious families.
Exhibitors display an impressive spectrum: quartz crystals, giant amethysts, fluorite, tourmaline, raw minerals from French and global deposits, ammonite, trilobite, fish and plant fossils, meteorites, tektites, natural-stone costume jewellery, silver necklaces, rings and pendants set with gems, mineralogy tools and specialist books.
Beyond the commercial side, the salon lets visitors discover earth sciences. Children often leave with a small crystal, a fossil shark tooth or a polished ammonite — the first pieces of a lifelong collection. Passionate exhibitors take time to explain origin, formation and specifics.
Seasoned collectors mingle with curious strollers. High-grade gems and museum-quality specimens attract specialist buyers, while families marvel at amethyst geodes and trilobites from ancient oceans.
Unlike many Var events, La Garde's salon unfolds over two full days (Saturday and Sunday), letting visitors take their time, return, negotiate and compare. A rare luxury that underpins the event's national and international reputation.
41st edition scheduled for 16-17 May 2026 at the Gérard Philip hall in La Garde. Two days to discover crystals, minerals, fossils, meteorites and natural-stone jewellery with French and international exhibitors. A fixture of the Var specialist salon calendar.
Salle Gérard Philip, 83130 La Garde. A57 La Garde exit, then signs. Free parking.
Two-day salon (Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 May 2026), daytime opening.
Professional French and international exhibitors of mineralogy, palaeontology, natural jewellery. Registration via organisers.
Refreshment stand and food. Specialist books. Educational welcome for families.
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Salle Gérard Philip
Salle Gérard Philip, 83130 La Garde