How to Collect Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones Part 1

Have you always wanted to collect rocks, minerals and gemstones? We can help you start a collection you'll love.

By Christopher Clark, GG, FGA, ASG, Gemologist & Co-Editor of The Sisk Gemology Reference | JTV
Published: 09/01/2017
Modified: 06/01/2021
gemstone-collecting mineral-collecting rock-collecting gemstone-collecting-basics
How to Collect Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones Part 1

Have you always wanted to collect rocks, minerals and gemstones, but don’t know where to begin? We can help you start a collection you’ll love and treasure.

There’s something mysterious and alluring in the sparkle of a faceted tanzanite, the graceful curls of a native silver specimen and the surprising weight of an otherwise ordinary-looking meteorite. These mesmerizing products of nature have been collected and admired by people since ancient times. You, too, can participate in this exciting experience with a few, simple expert tips:

Learn as Much as You Can

Now more than ever, you can find countless resources and information from books, classes, the internet and other collectors. Reading is a great start, but there is no substitute for seeing minerals, gemstones and rocks in person. Visit local museums, rock and mineral clubs or universities with public collections. Feeling adventurous? Take a guided rock or mineral collecting field trip. There is no thrill like finding your own treasure.

emerald cut strawberry quartz gemstone
Strawberry Quartz

Find a Passionate Community

Surrounding yourself with an engaging community will open up opportunities to experience your hobby in unimaginable ways. Nothing fuels passion like people with similar interests. Join a local rock and mineral club, take lapidary classes to learn the art of cutting and polishing gemstones, go to a rock and mineral show, speak with vendors, take classes and seminars, participate in online forums and follow relevant social media pages.

rough pink and black rhodolite geode
Rhodolite Specimen

Explore Themes

There are limitless ways to collect rocks, minerals and gemstones. Instead of being overwhelmed, get inspired and be creative. Most collectors are naturally drawn to certain characteristics of items whether it’s a specific shape, certain colors, patterns, inclusions, species or even locations. Check out existing collections and get a feel for what you like and dislike, or build multiple collections if you can’t pick just one.

Unboxing a Presidential Collection: Part 1 (source: Gemstones.com YouTube)

Collect What You Love

When you see something that intrigues you or speaks to your inner passion, don’t pass it up. Every experienced mineral collector has a story about the piece that got away. Don’t let this be you. Listen to your personal tastes and resist the temptation to buy something you might regret in the future.

two cut agate gemstone specimens
Agate Specimen

Buy the Best You Can Afford

When it comes to acquiring new pieces for your collection, make sure you are buying the best quality gemstone or specimen you can afford. Inspect the piece carefully to make sure it is free of damage and evaluate if the item is fairly priced based on its condition.

large uncut pink-purple kunzite specimen
Kunzite Specimen

Christopher Clark

About the author

Christopher Clark

A Graduate Gemologist and Fellow of the Gemological Association of Great Britain, Christopher has spent the last 4 years co-editing The Sisk Gemology Reference. He also acts as a customer advocate by inspecting and testing gemstones as they come into Jewelry Television to ensure they are exactly what our customers expect. He is an avid collector of vintage jewelry, gemstones, mineral specimens and spheres. Employed at Jewelry Television since 2006, Christopher spends much of his time immersed in the fascinating world of jewelry and gemstones.

Christopher’s passion for collecting valuables and precious stones began when he was shopping at a retired jeweler’s garage sale and he purchased a parcel of colored gemstones and a “lump of metal” that turned out to be GOLD! From that moment forward, the treasure hunt was on! But occasionally, he does become a commodities trader as he keeps an ever-watchful eye on precious metal prices. Unfortunately for his wallet, though, most of the treasures he acquires are never resold as they simply get added to his ever-growing collections. Christopher especially enjoys collecting vintage pocket watches and Mexican antique silver jewelry.

Christopher is now an Accredited Senior Gemologist with the Accredited Gemologists Association. He volunteers his time with a local gemological society for identifying gemstones. Christopher is always excited to attend major gemstone trade shows and is always on the look-out for the next great gem to bring JTV customers. Working closely with our vendors, Christopher has built a business rapport with them that allows for an easy trust and mutually beneficial working relationship. His favorite gem? Without a doubt, OPAL!