Rockhound Resources

Welcome to Our Rockhound Resource Page

At Faulk'n Rocks, we believe that the beauty and wonder of rockhounding should be accessible to everyone. We have a strong disdain for gatekeeping knowledge, especially when it comes to finding and appreciating the natural treasures hidden in the earth. Our philosophy is simple: take what you can use, preserve resources, and always leave the land better than you found it. We are committed to sharing our knowledge and resources to help you get started on your rockhounding journey and ensure that the natural world remains beautiful for generations to come.

Resources

Online Resources: Locating Rocks

• Mindat.org: An extensive database of minerals and their localities. Great for identifying potential areas to hunt as well as common minerals that have been reported being obtained.

• Rockhounding.org : A great starter website that pins areas across the United States that identify where to find rocks and minerals. The information can be a little outdated at times due to over-picking but you can use this as a guide to find your sweet spots.

• Facebook Groups: Search for local rockhounding groups to connect with enthusiasts in your area. We are members of the Texas and New Mexico Rockhound Groups, as well as several rock and mineral ID request groups. 

• Rough Rock Businesses: You can obtain a generalized idea of what the rocks you are hunting for look like and some of the areas in which they find the rocks that you would like to find by studying what is being sold over the internet. 

Books and Guides

• Falcon Guides by Region: Look for regional field guides specific to the area you plan to explore, such as "Rockhounding California" or "Rockhounding Oregon." Falcon Guide is the golden standard that we use. 

• "The Rockhound's Handbook" by James R. Mitchell: A great resource for understanding the basics of rock collecting and identifying common minerals and gemstones.

Tools and Equipment

• Rock Hammer: Essential for breaking rocks and uncovering hidden gems.

• Chisels: Useful for prying apart rocks and extracting specimens.

• Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself while collecting.

• Backpack: A sturdy backpack to carry your tools, water, and collected specimens.

• Identification Kit: A field guide, magnifying glass, and streak plate to help identify your finds on the go.

Getting Started

Starting your rockhounding journey can be both exciting and rewarding. Here are some steps to help you get started:

1. Research Locations: Begin by researching locations where rockhounding is permitted. National forests, state parks, and public lands often have designated areas for collecting. Always check the rules and regulations before heading out.

2. Gather Supplies: Make sure you have the right tools and safety gear. A basic kit should include a rock hammer, chisels, safety glasses, gloves, a backpack, and an identification guide.

3. Learn the Basics: Familiarize yourself with the types of rocks and minerals you might encounter in your area. Understanding the basics of geology and mineral identification will enhance your experience and help you make the most of your outings.

4. Join a Community: Connect with local rockhounding clubs or online communities. Experienced rockhounds can offer valuable advice, share locations, and even join you on your adventures.

5. Respect Nature: Always practice ethical rockhounding. Take only what you need, fill in any holes you dig, and leave the area cleaner than you found it. Preserving the environment ensures that future generations can enjoy rockhounding too.

6. Document Your Finds: Keep a journal or digital record of your discoveries. Note the location, type of rock or mineral, and any interesting features. This will help you track your progress and build a personal collection over time.

Rockhounding is a fulfilling hobby that combines the thrill of discovery with a deep appreciation for the natural world. We're here to support you every step of the way, providing the knowledge and resources you need to enjoy this wonderful pursuit responsibly.

Lapidary Resources and Skills

Lapidary is the art of cutting, shaping, and polishing stones, transforming rough rock specimens into stunning pieces of jewelry, art, and decor. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced rockhound, developing lapidary skills can enhance your appreciation for the natural beauty of rocks and minerals. Here's a brief overview of the essential equipment and resources to get you started:

Essential Lapidary Equipment

• Trim Saw: Used for cutting slabs from rough rock. A good trim saw will have a sturdy blade and water-cooling system to keep the blade and rock cool during cutting.

• Cabochon Machine: A multi-wheel machine that allows you to grind and polish stones into cabochons. These machines usually have several wheels with different grits for shaping and smoothing the stone.

• Flat Lap: A versatile tool for grinding, sanding, and polishing flat surfaces on stones. Ideal for creating flat facets on gemstones.

• Tumbler: A rock tumbler smooths and polishes stones by rotating them with abrasive grit and water. Tumblers come in various sizes and are great for beginners.

• Dremel Tool: A handheld rotary tool with various attachments for detailed work, such as engraving, drilling, and polishing small stones.

• Polishing Compounds: Used with polishing wheels or by hand to achieve a high-gloss finish on your stones. Common compounds include cerium oxide and tin oxide.

• Safety Gear: Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask to protect yourself from debris and dust generated during the lapidary process.

Learning Lapidary Skills

• Workshops and Classes: Many local gem and mineral clubs offer lapidary workshops and classes. These hands-on learning opportunities are invaluable for developing your skills.

• Online Tutorials: Websites like YouTube and specialized lapidary forums provide numerous video tutorials and step-by-step guides for various lapidary techniques.

• Books: "Lapidary for Beginners" by Edward J. Soukup and "Introduction to Lapidary" by Pansy D. Kraus are excellent resources that cover the basics of lapidary equipment and techniques.

• Local Clubs: Joining a local gem and mineral club can connect you with experienced lapidarists who can offer advice, mentorship, and access to shared equipment.

Mastering lapidary skills takes time and practice, but the results are incredibly rewarding. With the right equipment and resources, you can transform your rockhound finds into beautiful, polished pieces that showcase the natural beauty of the stones. Whether you're creating jewelry, decorative items, or simply enjoying the process, lapidary work adds a whole new dimension to your rockhounding adventures.

Happy rockhounding!