How to Become a Rock Hound

If you have a beautiful rock sitting on a bookshelf in your house, maybe you have wondered where that rock came from. Perhaps you have been curious about other rocks that may be out there in nature. If so, becoming a rock hound may be for you. A rock hound is a person who collects rocks and minerals for recreational purposes. If you want to be a rock hound, there are many ways to get started on your new hobby.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Rock and Mineral Identification Guide
• Rock Hammer
• Hand Lens

1. Purchase a rock and mineral identification field guide. There are many books on the market that can help you learn about rock and mineral identification. These guides give you information on types of rocks, locations where rocks can be found and other rock identification characteristics.
2. Visit a local natural history museum to gather additional information on rocks, minerals and geology. Museum docents and researchers can answer questions, point you in the direction of local spots to go rock hunting and can answer questions about rock or mineral samples that you have already collected.
3. Join a rock hound's club. Ask people at your local museum, college or university for information. Also, you can search online for groups of rock hounds and collectors in your area. Clubs will give you information on local rocks, as well as people to go rock collecting with you.
4. Consider taking an introductory geology course at your local college or university. You can also talk to geology and natural science professors about rocks that you may have found or about locations to rock hunt.
5. See if there are any rock and gem shows coming to your area. These traveling shows have rocks, minerals and gems for purchase, as well as people to answer questions about your collection. You may also be able to find rock hound buddies at these shows.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not be a "specimen-hog." Try not to over-collect rocks at a particular site. Leave rocks in their natural settings for others to gather and study.
• Use a rock hammer to dig out rocks and minerals that you find on your rock hunting expeditions, and get a close look with your hand lens. This can aid in rock and mineral identification.
• Always use proper safety procedures when you are out looking for rocks and minerals. Do not go into unsafe situations and make sure that people know where you are at all times in case of an emergency. Or better yet, find a buddy to go rock hunting with.
• Try to get permission to access private or public properties before going rock collecting. If you do not, especially for a private property, you may be trespassing.