Where can I find a group online that wants to show and discuss precious stones & gems?

[D. G]

I just tried to do a search in Yahoo groups and found all kinds of groups but none really like what I was hoping to find: a group of people who just want to share their interest in this subject and share photos of stones and gems they have either found, inherited, or otherwise obtained from their travels. most of the groups I found are commercial and/or don't restrict themselves to stones. They talk about jewelry and related hobbies that include bead making and other related hobbies. Has anyone found a group such as I'm looking for. I just want to share what I have collected and ask if anyone knows some of the terms and how to value stones such as one finds in gift stores when traveling.

 

[DNP]

You probably need to join a local gemology or mineralogy society group.
Try the following:
http://www.americangemsociety.org/
http://www.minsocam.org/

I have the same interests. I would love to go to local quarries hunting for garnets etc. Along the way you learn a bit about identification.

So far I have just been an avid stone collector (perhaps like you).

Check out my website at
www.maidstonejewelry.com
and my blog at
http://maidstonejewelry.wordpress.com

and stay in touch if you want. I would like to know what you find.

 

[P. S. D]

Ask at your local college, night school and/or museum. The people who teach or work with gems (geologists) will know about local "rock hound" groups. These groups usually share where the best collecting spots are within driving distance, as well as worldwide. The Los Angeles Natural History Museum has a great group - it organize trips to all sorts of places in the world and gets private trips into mines, etc., but it is best to find the one that is in your area and convenient to you. Most groups will meet at least once a month in someone's home or at a school or museum. Enjoy - I have found that these "rock hounds" are great people who enjoy life and are good about sharing rock collecting secrets. By the way, they are usually into just rocks, gems and collecting. They will know about groups that like to make jewelry, etc. if you decide to move in that direction.