Herkimer Diamond Picked for State’s Official Mineral

Albany, NY (WIBX) - The  New  York  State Senate has passed a measure that would designate the Herkimer Diamond as New York State's official mineral. The  legislation celebrates the  distinctive  element  from  the Mohawk Valley.

The quartz crystals are commonly referred to as Herkimer Diamonds, due to their diamond shape and are unique to New York. 

According to the President of the Herkimer Diamond Mines, Renee Scialdo Shevat, the Herkimer Diamond is known around the world, telling WIBX "We are in Japan, China, Brazil, New Zealand and Australia on a regular basis with the Herkimer (diamond) and there has been such a reverance for it, a passion and excitement for this natural crystal for so many years, to have it recognized as the New York State Mineral is just wonderful news for us".

Currently, there is no official New York State Mineral. The bill still needs approval from the Assembly and the Governor.