For over 200 years, preserved within the elegant setting of the Hôtel de Vendôme, the mineralogical collections of Mines Paris – PSL have been among the most comprehensive and spectacular in the world. They contain over 100,000 specimens, 5,000 of which are displayed in showcases, representing approximately 2,900 mineral species!
While it takes only a few seconds to be struck by the beauty and diversity of these mineral treasures, decades of study have been required to understand their true nature. This museum is not merely a repository of species and a showcase of the richness of the mineral world; it is also a center for research.
SPECIAL CLOSURE ON TUESDAY 10 NOVEMBER 2026
Creation of the “Cabinet de Minéralogie” at the School of Mines
Number of specimens in the collections
Number of specimens on display
Mineral species conserved at the museum, out of 6,000 known
By exploring our collections of minerals, rocks, meteorites and gems, you can embrace the different facets of their history, revealing all their beauty and usefulness.
Minerals
The Museum houses one of the oldest and most prestigious mineral collections in the world, bringing together specimens of rare scientific, historical, and aesthetic diversity.
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Gems
Cut or uncut, the Museum’s gems illustrate the world’s mineralogical wealth and the links between science, beauty, and craftsmanship.
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Meteorites
Fragments from the solar system, the meteorites preserved in the Museum allow us to approach the cosmic origins of matter.
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Synthetic crystals
Two display cases are dedicated to synthetic crystals, which are strategic for the industry. Varied colored synthetic quartz, as well as emeralds and rubies, are presented in their original forms.
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Rocks
The collection of rocks is organized and displayed in a dedicated room of the museum. Here, learn about the rock cycle, and see the igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic rocks on display.
Learn moreDiscover what keeps the museum running on a daily basis: its history, its team, its actions in support of research, and how to support it:
The Mines Paris – PSL Mineralogy Museum’s influence extends far beyond its walls. Interviews, reports, publications, news: find here an overview of the museum’s presence in the media, online and in print.
Musée de Minéralogie Mines Paris – PSL
60 boulevard Saint-Michel,
75006 Paris
RER B – Station Luxembourg
BUS 21, 24, 27, 38, 82, 84, 89
Vélib – Station n°5122 – Saint-Michel – Luxembourg
The museum does not have public parking.
Tuesday:
10am – 12pm / 1:30pm – 6pm
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday:
1:30pm – 6pm
Saturday:
10am – 12:30pm / 2pm – 5pm.
Last entry possible 1 hour before closing.
Sundays, Mondays and public holidays.
Email address:
musee@minesparis.psl.eu
Telephone:
+33 1 40 51 91 39
Does the Museum have a mineral shop?
There is not a gift shop in the museum per se. However, at the reception desk, you’ll find books and merchandise (tote bags, stickers, postcards). To everyone’s delight, we’ve set up a coin-operated mineral vending machine (gashapon). Be sure to bring a 2€ coin, and you’ll have a chance to play for a mineral! Which one? It’ll be a surprise—you’ll get one of about ten varieties, some much rarer than others.
Learn moreDoes the Museum purchase or exchange minerals?
The museum does not do exchanges, as each mineral is catalogued as a National Collection item and is considered as a national heritage. The Museum does not have an acquisition budget for minerals, gemstones, meteorites, or other mineralogical objects. The Museum’s new acquisitions come exclusively from donations, either through:
monetary donations via the Mines Paris Foundation or in-kind donations
Learn moreWhat are the acquisition criteria for donations?
There are specific criteria for in-kind donations to the museum. We are looking for new mineral species, new localities, or samples of higher quality than those we already have in our collection. Other samples may be accepted for educational purposes, but they will not be included in the national collection. The museum has an association (ABC Mines) that can pick up the collection you wish to donate.
Learn moreHow do I get to the museum?
We know full well that our museum is a little hidden gem, tucked away discreetly among the streets of Paris! It’s located right inside the École des Mines de Paris (Mines Paris – PSL). There are no flashy signs on the outside, so you’ll need to take the initiative to step inside this national educational and research institution. At the school’s reception desk, staff will direct you to the museum, located two floors up. Be sure to bring your tickets – you will need them to pass through the security gates at the school’s entrance.
Learn moreDoes the Museum conduct appraisals?
The museum does not conduct appraisals—you will need to contact an identification laboratory equipped with the analytical techniques we do not have here at the museum.
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