Because of its glass-like, cryptocrystalline structure, obsidian can be a challenge to polish. Attempting to polish the stone in a tumbler can easily result in seriously fractured pieces, no matter what precautions you may take. As a result, many collectors opt to polish obsidian pieces by hand to ensure they remain whole and undamaged. Read More Articles About … [Read more...] about How To Polish Obsidian By Hand
Rocks and Precious Stones
Where To Find Amethyst In Arizona (5 Best Locations)
Where To Find Amethyst in Arizona Amethyst is actually rather rare in Arizona. Nevertheless, in this state's rockhounding paradise there are still elusive finds to be made. There is one mine that continues to turn out world-class gems and others with their own unique specimens. There are also Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands where rockhounds have made quality finds. … [Read more...] about Where To Find Amethyst In Arizona (5 Best Locations)
Where To Find Obsidian in Arizona (5 Best Locations)
Obsidian, or volcanic glass, is found in most southwestern states. The gemstone is found in regions known to have an active volcanic past. Arizona's San Francisco Volcanic Field, located in the north-central part of the state, is one of the country's major sources of obsidian. This area contains hundreds of extinct volcanic domes. It is in fact, Arizona's most prominent … [Read more...] about Where To Find Obsidian in Arizona (5 Best Locations)
Where To Find Petrified Wood In Arizona
Arizona's state fossil, Araucarioxylon arisonicum, better known as petrified wood, can be found scattered throughout virtually every county in the state. Of course, some areas are privately owned and others federally controlled. But still. over 12 million acres of Arizona are administered by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), which allows limited harvesting of fossils, gems, … [Read more...] about Where To Find Petrified Wood In Arizona
Charlevoix Stone vs Petoskey Stone
If you have the opportunity to walk along the western shorelines of Michigan's lower peninsula, you may find both Petoskey and Charlevoix stones scattered there. Both of these fossilized coral specimens abounded during a time when the region was covered by a warm, shallow sea teaming with reef life. Difference Between Petoskey Stone and Charlevoix Stone So what is the … [Read more...] about Charlevoix Stone vs Petoskey Stone
