Date/Time
Date(s) - 13/05/2026
7:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Categories No Categories

The evening will feature the following speaker:

Francine Payette – Magnetism, magnetic minerals, and magnets: from natural minerals to modern magnets

Magnetism is one of the most fascinating fundamental forces of nature.

During the talk, we will explore how this ‘invisible power’ works. We will look at natural magnetic minerals, like lodestone, that have captivated humanity for thousands of years.

From these natural rocks, we will explore how we create permanent magnets, and how they form the backbone of modern technology.

Key Themes Covered

• Magnetism – Definition as a force caused by the motion of electric charges; how electron spin creates attraction.
• Magnetic Minerals – Introduction to lodestone as a natural magnet.
• Magnets – Composition, types and characteristics.
• Applications and uses.

About the speaker

Francine holds a BSc and a MSc in geology from the University of Montreal and is a graduate of both the British and Canadian Gemmological Associations. In 2003 she received a Diploma in Diamond Technology from the Gemmological Association of Australia (GAA).

Francine has taught geology and gemmology in Quebec, British Columbia, Madagascar, and Perth. She was the Editor of The Australian Gemmologist for three years (2010-2012) and now is a member of the review board of the journal. She also is an editor of The Australian Journal of Mineralogy (AJM). Francine is the author of numerous articles and has been an invited speaker at many national and international conferences.

Besides her commitments with the GAA WA Division and the AJM, she is currently a dedicated grandmother enjoying quality time with her two grandchildren.

Wednesday 13 May 2026, 7.30pm

(venue opens at 6.30 pm for socialising and Show & Tell)

WA Lapidary and Rock Hunting Club Inc.
31 Gladstone Road, Rivervale