How To Open A Geode
Geodes are one of the, if not the number 1 rock collected by enthusiasts and die-hard rock hounds. You have to admit, it’s pretty cool to find or buy a geode nodule and then cut or crack it open to see what the inside looks like. Will you get one lined with amethyst or clear […]
Gemologist Guide to Identifying Petrified Wood
Petrified wood is a type of fossil that forms when minerals replace the cavity left by the original plant. These conditions require an oxygen-deprived environment, essentially devoid of bacteria. Usually, this is triggered by forests getting covered by water and peat moss quickly, preventing decay. Or volcanic activity that covers the wood in oxygen-depriving ash, thus […]
How Much is Obsidian Worth
Obsidian is very affordable in sizes ranging from 1 -10 grams and the cost per gram is between $1.00 to $5.00 per gram. Mahogany and rainbow seem to be the most popular among rock and mineral enthusiasts. There are quite a few varieties of obsidian and all of them are popular among collectors. Extremely large […]
Apache Tears
Apache tears are merikanite obsidian nodules that are formed when lava cools incredibly quickly. The rapid cooling results in volcanic glass instead of forming crystals. These nodules vary in size from pea-sized to the size of a baseball. They’re often found in a Perlite Matrix near Superior, Arizona, but can be found elsewhere. Fun fact […]
Marcasite Stone
Marcasite is a semi-precious stone known for its unique, stained glass-like shine. It has a metallic luster with a greenish-yellow to brassy color and some say it appears to be fibrous when you look at it with a 10x powered loop. Most people can recognize the name marcasite because it is used in inexpensive jewelry […]
Fairburn Agate
Fairburn agate has become one of the most sought-after agates in the United States because of its tight banding and rich earthy tones. The Fairburn agate fields are located in South Dakota and rockhounds travel from all around to search for and collect these agate nodules. Due to its popularity, I decided to do an […]
How Much is Sugilite Worth?
High-quality sugilite is very affordable in sizes ranging from 1 – 10 grams and the cost per gram is between $5.00 to $65.00 per gram, 1-3 gram sized stones are priced between $5.00 to $15.00 per gram, and larger stones, are priced at $35.00 to $75.00 per gram. Sugilite sourced from Afghanistan is regarded as […]
Peacock Ore
Peacock Ore is reminiscent of a peacock’s tail feathers in color and brilliance but instead of having to take care of a peacock you can buy the ore and take it with you wherever you go. The rough material displays an iridescent color when viewed under light but don’t be fooled it’s an actual tarnish […]
How Much is Kunzite Worth (spodumene)
High-quality kunzite is very affordable in sizes ranging from 0.50 – 1 carat and the cost per carat is between $15.00 to $25.00 per carat, 1-3 carat sized stones are priced between $25.00 to $35.00 per carat, and larger stones, which are on the rare side, are priced at $50.00 to $100.00 per carat. Kunzite […]
Septarian Nodules
Septarian nodules, also known as dragon stones, are highly sought after by rock hounds and mineral collectors because they formed millions of years ago in a unique way. These dark mud balls are distinctive stones with yellow, gray, and brown tones in large art-like bands. The grays and browns come from dead algae while the […]