Hobbies And Interests
Instructions
Donate your rocks. This is a beneficial option, especially if the rock samples are labeled. You can donate your old samples to schools, libraries and organizations for children. You can place an advertisement online or call around to find out if you can donate your samples to your community.
Properly handle toxic or hazardous samples. Some rocks, such as mimetite, stibnite, cinnabar, coloradoite and tremolite contain toxins like arsenic, mercury, thalium and asbestos. Most samples are not toxic enough to seriously harm, though caution should be taken when handling in any case. If donating, seal in a plastic container and mark that the mineral should not be touched without gloves. Some of the less harmful samples may be touched, but hands should be washed immediately after handling.
Place the rocks in a garden or natural area. Normal rocks can be placed outside, but you may not want them around. Take them to a rocky area, beach or place them in your garden for decoration. Ask if you neighbors want a few for their own collection or yard.
Throw the unwanted rocks away. If you do not have many rocks to dispose of and none have toxic material, rocks can be thrown away in your trash or taken to a landfill. This should be your last option as rocks can be placed back in nature in most cases. Dispose of hazardous rocks by calling your local hazardous waste facility or environmental group who will direct you.