There are many aspects of Kentucky's history that are well known, while others don't tend to make the history books. But there are plenty of fascinating stories and time periods that are featured in small museums and shops throughout the state. For example, you may not know much about the history of fluorspar mines in the Bluegrass State, but there is a unique museum in Kentucky that is not only impressive, but incredibly interesting. The Clement Mineral Museum is located in the town of Marion in western Kentucky, and it's a *gem* of a place! In fact, it's right here -- in little old Kentucky -- where you'll find the world's largest collection of fluorite!

Located in a small town in western Kentucky, you'll find this unassuming building that's hiding thousands of beautiful secrets.

The Ben E. Clement Mineral Museum is a non-profit organization that is "committed to the preservation of minerals and mining history for the purpose of educating students, educators, and the general public." The museum houses the impressive collection of Ben E. Clement, who was an important player in the mining of this region.

The collection is not only impressive, but it may just be the largest gathering of fluorite in the world. Clement knew that he was living through a time in history that likely would not last, so he preserved many minerals, which we can now witness in person today.

The mining of fluorspar in western Kentucky slowed down to nothing by the early 1960s, but Clement maintained his collection until his death in 1980.

Now these minerals are uniquely displayed in the museum, which is open to the general public throughout the year.

For current hours, you'll want to follow along with the museum on Facebook, linked below.

The staff at the museum can guide you through the collection and answer any questions you may have.

No matter your interest level in fluorite, you'll likely leave with much more knowledge and appreciation for this piece of Kentucky history.

All ages will enjoy a visit to this unique museum in Kentucky. There is also a gift shop within the museum that offers items ideal for those who are difficult to shop for.

History buffs can really appreciate this museum for its artifacts from the decades of mining that took place in this region.

There are photographs, letters, records, machinery, and other memorabilia collected by Mr. Clement, both inside and outside of the museum.

The Clement Mineral Museum may be a lesser known place in Kentucky, but it's worth a stop when you're in the area.

And of course if you already have an interest in minerals, you'll definitely want to see the world's largest collection of fluorite, right here in Kentucky. How cool is that?!

If you have any interest at all in minerals or the history of mining in our state, then you'll want to visit this unique museum in Kentucky. The Clement Mineral Museum is a hidden "gem" in western Kentucky that teaches and entertains and truly has something interesting for anyone who visits. Did you know about this little museum in Kentucky -- or that the largest collection of fluorite in the world could be found in the Bluegrass? Do you find these minerals fascinating? Let us know in the comments!

For more information on this unique museum in Kentucky, visit the Clement Mineral Museum website and follow along with them on Facebook.

And if you want to explore another "gem" of a place, check out this unique roadside attraction and gift shop.