Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Contact the state geological survey and local mineral clubs and request geologic maps of local outcrops, mines and river beds with public access. Evaluate the geologic maps to determine the types of rocks in the area and the potential minerals in the rocks.
Visit the outcrops, mines and river areas and examine the rocks at each location. Look for large grains and veins in the rock that may be indicative of gemstones and other mineral crystals. Use a compass and the maps to help navigate through the area.
Put on your safety glasses. Break a sample of the rock from exposed outcrops using a rock hammer. The mineral content of the rock is easier to see on the fresh side of the sample where weathering has not discolored the rock surface. Use a hand magnifier to see smaller grains.
Examine loose rocks and soil in each area because minerals can weather out of rocks and create nearby deposits. Mineral crystals may also be present in the shallow, calm water of a river or stream bed. Use a sieve to separate mineral crystals from surrounding soil and sediment.
Compare the mineral samples to the identification information in the reference book to identify your specimens.