ISHPEMING -- Rocks were what everyone wanted at the 36th annual Gem and Mineral Show in Ishpeming this weekend.

More than 1500 people showed up to add their favorite stones to their collections.

Some even came to buy jewelry gifts for their friends.

The varieties present included iron minerals and other types of rocks associated with mining found around Lake Superior.

"We look at it as trying to let the people know what's out there," says show chairman Ernie Johnson. "It's amazing the number of people that do not realize all the different types of minerals and their different types of color. We just enjoy people coming and saying that they had a great time; they found some nice minerals, they're taking it home, and they'll talk about it next year."

There were several mineral demonstrations, including getting your very own geode cracked open right before your eyes.

The event is held the first weekend of August every year.