How to Start a Rock Collection

Rock collecting can be a great way to see the world! There are three types of rocks--igneous, sedimentary and metamorphic. Each has distinct traits so you can choose whether to focus on one or more types when you start your own collection.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Dish soap to clean rocks
• Plastic sandwich-sized bags
• Shovel
• Good vision
• Map
• Deep pot or bowl for cleaning
• Patience
• Bucket or bag to carry the rocks

Gather Rocks

1. Buy your own collection of rocks. Collections are available through the Internet and catalogs, with prices ranging from inexpensive to expensive, depending on size or rarity.

2. Be an explorer! Rocks are everywhere and different types of natural settings contain varied types of rocks, some of which may be location-specific.

3. Head to the islands. Islands--like Hawaii--can be a great source for locating igneous rock, which forms when magma cools and hardens.

4. Check streams, lakes and rivers. Sedimentary rocks form from the erosion of larger rocks. The resulting sediments are then carried via water to a natural basin and the sediment becomes stone.

5. Acclimate yourself to hot weather. Metamorphic rocks are best found in areas of intense heat, where rocks have also been exposed to pressure.

6. Be a happy novice. Choose rocks that appeal to you and research exactly what you've found when you return home.

7. Dig deep. Great rocks can also be found beneath the dirt and your shovel can help you to access what lies beneath the ground.

Start Your Collection

1. Separate the rocks as you find them. By keeping them apart, you can better categorize your collection when you return home.

2. Place each rock in its own container or plastic bag. Label the bag or container with the location and date.

3. Clean each rock thoroughly. Many collectors are quite surprised to see the rock's true appearance once all dirt has been removed.

4. Keep a record or chart from the moment you start the collection. Numerous trips and collections are easily monitored if you update the record after each trip.

5. Buy rock identification guides. You can use these to point you in the direction of the rocks you want or to help identify what you've found.

6. Determine how to classify your collection. You can group rocks based on texture, color or size, for example.

7. Photograph collections. If you plan to keep multiple collections, you can photograph each one when it is complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Never go rock collecting alone. Since rock collecting can draw you to somewhat remote locations, it is best to always travel with a companion.