The Arkenstone: Story of Dr. Robert Lavinsky and iRocks.com

Summary

The Arkenstone, founded by Dr. Robert Lavinsky, is a leading fine mineral business based in Dallas, Texas. Through iRocks.com, it transformed how collectors buy, study, and appreciate minerals online. Over the years, The Arkenstone has combined science, art, and community—serving collectors and museums worldwide.

Introduction

The Arkenstone is one of the most respected names in the mineral world, founded by Dr. Robert Lavinsky, a scientist turned collector. From the beginning, his mission was clear—to bring minerals to people everywhere through science and storytelling. What began in 1986 as a teenage hobby has grown into a global network of collectors, researchers, and museums connected through iRocks.com.

Rob’s journey reflects a lifelong dedication to minerals—guided by curiosity, scientific discipline, and the belief that natural beauty should be shared worldwide.

From Hobby to Global Mineral Legacy

At just 14, Rob Lavinsky displayed his minerals at his first show in Ohio. With encouragement from the Columbus Rock & Mineral Society, his passion evolved into a professional pursuit.

The name “Arkenstone”—borrowed from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit—symbolizes beauty and legend. By the mid-1990s, The Arkenstone had already built one of the first serious online mineral platforms through iRocks.com, thereby reaching collectors across continents.

Academic Roots and Career Shift

After earning his degree in Biochemistry from Rice University, Rob completed his Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics at UC San Diego. Although many expected him to leave academia early for business, he finished his doctorate before turning full-time to mineral dealing in 2000.

His scientific background shaped his philosophy: in particular, combining accuracy, transparency, and artistry in every specimen he handled.

Milestones and Major Exhibitions

Since then, The Arkenstone has been part of major mineral shows around the world:

• Tucson Gem & Mineral Show (TGMS) — Main Show since 1998
• Westward Look Show — since 2004
• 22nd Street Show — since 2018

In 2002, The Arkenstone established its headquarters in Dallas, Texas.
Its gallery, open by appointment, houses one of the world’s most diverse private collections—serving collectors, researchers, and museums alike. Today, it continues to set high standards for authenticity and presentation.

Outreach and Collaborations

Rob’s passion for education led to the creation of China Crystalline Treasures, an outreach project built from his personal Chinese mineral collection.

He also co-founded the Dallas Mineral Collectors Symposium and serves on advisory boards for leading institutions, including:

• University of Arizona’s RRUFF Project
• Tucson Gem & Mineral Museum
• American Museum of Natural History
• Rice Museum of Rocks and Minerals
• Hunan Museum of Geology

“The key to The Arkenstone’s success has been combining science, art, and community—building trust with collectors worldwide since the early days of the internet.”

FAQ: About The Arkenstone

Q: Why is The Arkenstone important in the mineral world?
A: It was among the first to sell minerals online in the 1990s, therefore, setting the standard for quality, authenticity, and education.

Q: Where is The Arkenstone located?
A: Dallas, Texas. The gallery is open by appointment only.

Q: Who founded The Arkenstone?
A: Dr. Robert Lavinsky, mineral dealer, collector, and Ph.D. in Biochemistry.

Q: What makes iRocks.com unique?
A: It offers one of the largest curated collections of fine minerals online—with detailed provenance, photography, and expert insights.

Explore More

• Gemology Basics
• Collectible Minerals
• Tucson Gem & Mineral Show
• Dallas Mineral Collectors Symposium
• China Crystalline Treasures
• Museum Collaborations