CANTON -- The St. Lawrence County Rock & Mineral Club is offering an amethyst cathedral as the prize in their current fundraiser.

An amethyst cathedral is a natural mineral formation, similar to a geode -- a large geode. It gets the name "cathedral" from its shape; tall and pointed, somewhat resembling a gothic arch or a church window. The outside looks like a hollow log with a green basalt coating. It has been cut, revealing that the interior is completely lined with purple amethyst crystals. It stands on a stable base of rock material.

This year's cathedral is especially unique, because it is nearly 2 feet tall and weighs about 80 pounds. Its retail value is over $500. It would be a conversation piece in any room, as it is a work of art, as well as an item of scientific interest and an example of nature's beauty.

This unique item will be on display at the St. Lawrence County Rock & Mineral Club's 51st Annual Gem & Mineral Show & Swap August 26 and 27 at the Canton pavilion, 90 Lincoln St.

Tickets for a chance to win it may be purchased at any time during the show. The winning ticket will be drawn at 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 27.

For more information visit the club’s website at www.StLawrenceCountyMineralClub.org or call club president Bill deLorraine at 315-287-4652 or wdellie@gmail.com.

Proceeds from the raffle benefit club sponsored minerology scholarships at SUNY Potsdam and St. Lawrence University.