‘Minerals in Medicine’ Exhibit at CC

Gallin holds a large gem, handed to him by a Smithsonian geologist as colleagues look on

Clinical Center director Dr. John Gallin (second from l) looks at an exhibit stone held by Smithsonian geologist Dr. Michael A. Wise (l). Looking on with amusement are Dr. Frederick Ognibene (second from r), Clinical Center deputy director for educational affairs and strategic partnerships, and Dr. Jeffrey E. Post (r), chairman, department of mineral sciences and curator, National Gem and Mineral Collection.

Photo: Ernie Branson

The Clinical Center is featuring a “Minerals in Medicine” exhibit as part of a collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History’s department of mineral sciences and its National Gem and Mineral Collection. While the objects were being unpacked, Clinical Center director Dr. John Gallin marveled at one of the exhibit’s stones presented by Smithsonian geologist Dr. Michael A. Wise.

The exhibit highlights the essential role minerals and metals play in medicine, medical devices and in the normal functioning of the human body. Under the loan agreement, the items will be displayed in the Clinical Center’s admissions area for 18 months.