Collecting Pretty Rocks

Equipment

Gloves, rock pic, shovel, sunglasses, bucket, sifting screen, polisher/polish $200 (sizes & cost vary), book identifying gems and other valuable minerals, book identifying known mineral locations, first aid kit

Licenses

None required - However, remember you need permission to be on private land, some public land has restrictions against removing material-national forest , etc. License may be required for taking gold. 

Private Areas

Some private mines allow digging for a fee for such material as opal, gold, diamonds, garnet, etc. Check internet for opportunities.

Season

Open all year.

Recommendations

Visit a local rock shop in your area to see what gemstones they have on display, gem cutting and polishing equipment and tips on where you might find certain gems.  Rock collecting groups meet regularly and also a good source of information.

Benefits

Chance to be outdoors and come home with valuable gems, mineral, or just pretty rocks to line your garden beds.