Rock Collecting is a fascinating free time hobby. In spite of the fact that rocks and stones are found everywhere, an array of different kinds of rocks makes it a peculiar passion. Albeit most of the rocks existent on the earth are formed from calcium, magnesium, silicon, iron, oxygen, the combinations of these elements in different proportions resulting in the most prized collection of rocks for an avid rock collector. Locating rocks, identifying them and collecting them systematically constitute the work to have an adorable rock collection.
Types of Rocks:
While collecting rocks, one should be aware of types of rocks. Rocks can be classified into one of the three major kinds on earth: Igneous, Sedimentary and Metamorphic. Igneous rocks are formed by volcanic activity and are either granular or glassy in appearance. Lava rocks and obsidian are common igneous rocks. Sedimentary rocks like shale and rock salt are layered rocks composed of fragments of other rocks brought together by weathering. Metamorphic rocks are usually rocks of other types that have been deformed by heat and pressure. Slate and Marble are perfect examples of metamorphic rocks.
Starting a Rock Collection:
Before starting a rock collection, one needs to know where to look, how to identify and how to store the rocks. Ideal places to start are streets, gardens, beaches and railway tracks. Although one may come across a limited variety initially, he can always replace his collection with better samples as he advances and gains experience. Generally, one will find sedimentary rocks in plains and river basins and igneous and metamorphic rocks in mountainous regions.
Photo Credit|cobalt123;Flickr 2010
Tools for rock collection:
While collecting the rocks, one will need hand lenses to carefully examine and identify rocks. He will also need a hammer or a chisel to break rocks into portable sizes and pairs of gloves to avoid injuries and a first-aid kit in case of an emergency. Other things that one may carry include wrapping papers and sandbags to store his collections. A notebook and pen to jot down details of each sample are also advisable.
Housing your collection:
One must devote time to clean rocks, resize them, label them and place them in his collection. Usually samples of 3 by 4 by 2 inches suffice to represent the features of a rock. One can label samples by sticking them to a white sheet of paper and numbering them. One must use a notebook to record other details. In case he wants to enlarge his collection, he can get in touch with rock shops and museum stores and buy the missing types.
General Guidelines:
A systematic approach for rock collection from the very beginning is essential. One must immediately record the place where he found a particular rock, even if he fails to identify its type. This approach is helpful for subsequent cross-reference when he identifies the rock. One must also always be cautious and refer to guides and brochures from trusted geological sources before going on hunt for rocks.