Education

It usually takes some time, as in days, to gain a comprehensive understanding of what a mineral locality has to offer.  Sites can be expansive and contain many beautiful rocks.  It's easy to overdo it when we don't know what separates the good from the great.  When you rockhound with All Picked Up you'll get a crash course on the locality, as well as personal guidance throughout the day that will make your trip memorable and successful.  With a trained eye and proper knowledge, you will feel confident in returning on your own to hone your craft.

Those who are planning on finding their own rocks and minerals will need to invest in the proper equipment.  To get started, you will need the following:

-a backpack

-a rock hammer

-eye protection

-gloves

-Brush/Spray bottle

-collecting bag/container

You'll want to select tools that you will be comfortable carrying and handling in the field.   Be sure to select a rock hammer that is not too large to wield comfortably.  

Bring only the tools that are appropriate for the locality.  Keeping weight to a minimum is always important as you will be coming back with heavier load.  Your backpack will be carrying tools and supplies, so to avoid overloading it with rocks you will need a separate carrying container.  Five gallon buckets are suitable, but I have found that one plastic re-useable shopping bag nested inside another is strong enough to carry 15-20 lbs. easily while adding no noticeable weight to your journey.

Some of the other tools you might come to need are:

-Pry bars

-Gads

-Chisels

-Crack hammers

-Shovels

-metal detectors

The rockhounding experience is unique to each enthusiast, so it is only necessary to buy tools as needed.