Rockhounding

Carrie
Mon, 21 Apr 2025 16:05:53 +0000

Hello all, are there any other rockhounders/collectors, whatever you want to call yourselves, out there?

I'm looking to hear about others' experiences, specifically in mining or surveying(not sure if that wording is correct), but really, generally, hearing of diverse experiences. Some of the coolest places you've been, where you want to go, favorite finds, rocks you lust after, equipment, etc.

I'll start.
I have been collecting rocks my whole life, but as a purposeful hobby, only in the last few years. So far I have scoured a few areas of the Great Lakes in the USA. I loved Lake Superior, especially the MN parts. When I visited Michigan, I didn't feel equipped to do much hounding and the few places(tourist based) I went seemed to be more into panning ? I visited the Indiana Dunes, and hounding there also seemed much different from hounding in more still water.
Hounding on the East Coast of the USA is also totally different, and I'm an amateur there. I'd say the advice to look for recent rock slides is pretty good, but requires right time/right place kind of planning.

I'm wondering for those who hound in areas that require "tools", so to speak, what it's like? As a gear-head type person, I always want a pick-axe but have no need for one.

Also debating if I need waders or not? I have yet to go deep into water to hound, so any experience or advice there is much appreciated.

Also, my current rock of obsession is Ehtiopian Opal, but I can't pull the trigger on it because I don't know if I can take care of it, or if it's worth the financial hit.

Looking forward to others' responses!

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