FIELD NOTES
“I only went out for a walk and finally concluded to stay out till sundown, for going out, I found, was really going in.” — John Muir
Whenever I read this quote, I recognize someone who understands. How many times have you stepped out for a walk, and before you know it, a short walk has turned into an hours-long excursion? Additionally, a walk such as this can certainly benefit our collections and our rockhounding spirit.
As we continue to proceed through this unconventional, unexpected, and uncertain year, our Rock & Gem team is interested in hearing how you’re spending the summer concerning your rockhounding and lapidary interests. We’ve provided a few questions for you to review and consider submitting your answers to us. • Has your local rock shop reopened yet? • If you own a shop or any rockhounding or lapidary-related business, have you reopened, and if you’ve been able to stay open through quarantine, what positives and challenges are you experiencing now? • Have you spent time hunting for rocks in your area, or have you traveled any distance to dig?
• How about visiting a public dig site? • Have you discovered new materials, techniques, or equipment you’ve used in your lapidary shop? • What about any changes or additions you’ve made to your collection? • If you are involved in a mineral club, has your group been meeting virtually? And if your club regularly hosts an annual mineral show, but did not, due to restrictions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, what is the impact to your club?
We’re asking because we want to better understand the needs and identify ways we can help, support, and contribute as our shared community strives to stay steady, and, when able and appropriate, move forward. So, with that, I ask you to please consider sending us your thoughts in response to one, a couple, or all of the questions I’ve presented, and any related questions you feel are important.
Additionally, as I mentioned in the Field Notes section of the July edition of Rock & Gem, we’re unveiling a new limited-edition column in this issue, Sneak Peek — Illustrious Opals. Turn to page 44 to learn more.