Collecting..

Treasure hunting..

The most rewarding way of extending your collection is treasure hunting in all kinds of places. On the photos from left to right: a natural mineral rich area, the dump of an old mine, an abandoned mine and a sea cove with slag minerals. Of course there are things that you always do before starting to search anywhere.

1. Always find out which local or national regulations there are about prospecting for minerals. There are many places where collecting is permitted, and sometimes you need an official permit, but there are also places, like most national parks, where it is limited or even strictly prohibited. Always respect and abide by the rules to keep everything safe.

2. Always ask permission from the owner of a property before entering. Almost all quarries are the property of someone or a company. Entering without permission is not only trespassing, but can also cause liability issues when something should happen.

3. Before going anywhere, try to gather as much information as possible on the site you wish to visit, by reading literature or studying on the internet: what can you find there, how does it look like, in what sort environment you are. Volcanic areas harbour completely different rocks and minerals in comparison to an alpine environment. The better you are prepared, the better your chances to find and pick up the good material. Blindly picking up rocks hardly ever is successful.

4. It is highly recommended not to go alone, for obvious safety reasons, and never ever enter an abandoned mine without the guidance of a local collector who knows his way at the location and the mine.

5. Always make sure you wear clothes and footwear that are suited for the location where you plan to go. In quarries often a safety vest and helmet are required, and that a helmet is highly recommended in a mine needs no further explanation.

Exchanging..

Another fine way to build or extend your collection, besides buying, is exchanging. There are a lot of events in many countries that are especially meant for exchanging micromounts. My local club organizes one every year - for requesting more information or better yet an invitation please use the contact form or send me an email. Besides finding new additions for your collection events like these are always a great opportunity to make new friends.

Besides that I do many personal exchanges with some 35 friends all over the world. I always have lots of material from Europe ready for exchange, everything cleaned, boxed and labeled, and with well visible crystals, no chunks - so if you have good stuff to exchange, no money involved, then don't hesitate to contact me.