Rock and Mineral Collecting Basics

 Collecting rocks, minerals and fossils can be a fun and exciting hobby. The easiest way to get involved and learn is to join a rock club. Check out this link national list to find one in your area. Members of all ages are welcomed, especially children and families. Old timers love to share their collecting wisdom and pass down traditions to the younger club members.

     You also want to start a field bag for your collecting trips. You should include:

   Field Guide

                A good field guide is essential for even the most experienced collectors. The many options available  range from beginner to expert. Find one that fits your level, with some room to grow as you learn more. 

   

 The Ten Essentials

                Carrying these items any time you go out collecting, even for a short day trip is essential. You may or may not need them, but you should always have them. Always bring extra water. 

                 

1. Map
2. Compass
3. Sunglasses and sunscreen
4. Extra clothing
5. Headlamp/flashlight
6. First-aid supplies
7. Fire starter
8. Matches
9. Knife
10. Extra food

Collecting Bag

               A good collecting bag is important to bring home all your treasures. A shoulder bag is handy for keeping your hands free. Sturdy canvas bags with lots of pockets work well to sort different size stones. Just about any type of bag will suffice, if you don't mind it getting dirty.

Extras

               Depending on your destination and experience level, you might want to include these:

• Spray Bottle with water to rinse rocks for identification.
• Small whisk broom to sweep off dust.
• Rock hammer
• Hard Hat
• Knee pads 
• Bucket 
• Rain coat
• Newspapers for wrapping delicate specimens
• Gloves     
• Field identification kit   
• Safety Goggles
• Magnifying glass or hand lens

    

     Now that you have assembled your field bag, you want to dress the part. Long pants, long sleeve shirts and leather gloves are vital. There may be spiders and snakes lurking underneath that next rock you pick up. Wearing a hat is a good idea as well. Sturdy boots with ankle support will help you navigate the sometimes difficult terrain. Wear extra layers for when the weather changes while you're out in the field. Brightly colored clothing is nice so that members of your group can see your location from a distance. Before you head out you need to remember:

SAFETY FIRST

     Children should never go out into the field without adult supervision. Rock hounding can sometimes be a dangerous hobby. With a few precautions you can ensure that everyone in the family has a good time and returns home in one piece. Stay away from:

• Private Property --Honor all NO trespassing signs.
• Mines and mining areas --Abandon or active mines are both dangerous places. Check out this site Mine Safety and Health kids page for safety around mines and mining areas.
• Overhanging Ledges/River Banks--Use extra caution in these areas.
• Breaking rocks --Don't Break rocks with a hammer or any household tool. Use extreme caution with any tool. Ask an adult for help anytime you are using tools.

Now it's time to get out in the field. Have fun and start building your collections. Rocks and minerals are all around you over. You just have to look. Rock clubs lead guided rock collecting trips and will be able to provide you with places to find minerals. Local rock shops are another good place to get local collecting information. 

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