9 Most Sought After Rocks, Crystals & Minerals by Collectors

According to ChatGBT, the following are the most sought-after collectible rocks with a general description and characteristics. Photos via BARD

Clear Quartz:

Description: Clear Quartz is a transparent variety of quartz and is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth.


Chemical Makeup: Clear Quartz is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2).
Primary Sources: Clear Quartz is found worldwide, including Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States (Arkansas).
Mineral Group: Clear Quartz belongs to the mineral group of silicates.
Metaphysical Properties: Clear Quartz is highly regarded for its versatile metaphysical properties. It is believed to be an amplifier of energy and can assist in enhancing spiritual growth, clarity of thought, and emotional balance.

Amethyst:

Description: Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz and is known for its stunning violet hues.


Chemical Makeup: Amethyst is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) with traces of iron.
Primary Sources: Amethyst is found in various locations, including Brazil, Uruguay, Russia, and the United States (Arizona and North Carolina).
Mineral Group: Amethyst belongs to the mineral group of silicates.
Metaphysical Properties: Amethyst is known for its calming and spiritually enhancing properties. It is often used for meditation, stress relief, and promoting spiritual connection.

Agate:

Description: Agate is a banded variety of chalcedony and is characterized by its colorful and intricate patterns.


Chemical Makeup: Agate is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2).
Primary Sources: Agate is found in numerous locations around the world, including Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico, and the United States (Oregon, Washington, and the Lake Superior region).
Mineral Group: Agate belongs to the mineral group of silicates.
Metaphysical Properties: Agate is believed to be a grounding and stabilizing stone, promoting balance and harmony. It is associated with protection, emotional healing, and enhancing self-confidence.


Fluorite:

Description: Fluorite is a colorful mineral known for its wide range of vibrant hues.
Chemical Makeup: Fluorite is a calcium fluoride mineral (CaF2).


Primary Sources: Fluorite is found in various countries, including China, Mexico, Russia, and the United States (Illinois, Kentucky, and Colorado).
Mineral Group: Fluorite belongs to the mineral group of halides.
Metaphysical Properties: Fluorite is considered a highly protective and cleansing stone. It is believed to absorb negative energies and enhance mental clarity, focus, and intuition.


Pyrite:

Description: Pyrite, also known as “Fool’s Gold,” is a brassy yellow mineral that resembles gold.


Chemical Makeup: Pyrite is an iron sulfide mineral (FeS2).
Primary Sources: Pyrite is found worldwide, including Spain, Peru, Russia, and the United States (Illinois, Colorado, and Pennsylvania).
Mineral Group: Pyrite belongs to the mineral group of sulfides.
Metaphysical Properties: Pyrite is known for its energy-enhancing and protective properties. It is believed to promote abundance, manifestation, and prosperity.

Malachite:

Description: Malachite is a vibrant green mineral that often exhibits unique banded patterns.


Chemical Makeup: Malachite is a copper carbonate hydroxide mineral (Cu2CO3(OH)2).
Primary Sources: Malachite is found in various locations, including the Democratic Republic of Congo, Russia, Australia, and the United States (Arizona and New Mexico).
Mineral Group: Malachite belongs to the mineral group of carbonates.
Metaphysical Properties: Malachite is associated with transformation, healing, and positive change.


Tourmaline:

Description: Tourmaline is a gemstone that occurs in a wide variety of colors, often exhibiting multiple hues in one crystal.


Chemical Makeup: Tourmaline is a complex borosilicate mineral with a variety of chemical compositions.
Primary Sources: Tourmaline is found in many countries, including Brazil, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, and the United States (California, Maine, and New York).
Mineral Group: Tourmaline belongs to the mineral group of cyclosilicates.
Metaphysical Properties: Tourmaline is known for its grounding and protective properties. It is believed to promote energy balance, clear negative influences, and protect against electromagnetic radiation.


Jade:

Description: Jade is a highly valued gemstone known for its smooth texture and rich green color.


Chemical Makeup: Jade is a general term for two different minerals: nephrite and jadeite.
Primary Sources: Jadeite is primarily sourced from Myanmar (Burma), while nephrite is found in various countries, including China, Russia, Canada, and the United States (California, Wyoming, and Alaska).
Mineral Group: Jade belongs to the mineral group of silicates.
Metaphysical Properties: Jade is regarded as a stone of luck, abundance, and protection.

Celestite:

Description: Celestite is a delicate blue mineral known for its ethereal beauty.


Chemical Makeup: Celestite is a strontium sulfate mineral (SrSO4).
Primary Sources: Celestite is found in different countries, including Madagascar, Mexico, Spain, and the United States (California, Ohio, and Michigan).
Mineral Group: Celestite belongs to the mineral group of sulfates.
Metaphysical Properties: Celestite is known as a calming and uplifting stone. It is associated with promoting peace, tranquility, and spiritual communication.
Please note that these descriptions, chemical makeups, primary sources, specific US states, mineral groups, and metaphysical properties are provided for informational purposes and should not replace expert advice. The metaphysical properties are based on popular beliefs and should be interpreted subjectively.

Bismuth Crystals Have Been a Big Hit at Recent Rock & Mineral Shows

We have had a lot of luck marketing Bismuth Crystals at area Rock And Mineral Shows. People are fascinated by both the crystal’s geometric staircase-like structure and the amazing variety of colors on any given crystal. We are frequently asked questions about Bismuth and have prepared this article in response.

Bismuth Sample Unsplash Photo By Alexander Grey

Bismuth crystals are a unique and fascinating element that attracts rock hounds and mineral collectors due to their striking colors and intricate patterns. Collectors prize these crystals for their beauty, rarity, and scientific value. Bismuth is a chemical element with the symbol Bi and atomic number 83. It is a member of the pnictogen group on the periodic table, along with nitrogen, phosphorus, arsenic, antimony, and the chemically similar element, lead.

Bismuth is a silvery-white, brittle metal with a pinkish tint that is found in nature in various minerals. Bismuth has been known since ancient times and was often confused with lead or tin due to its physical properties. It was not until the 18th century that bismuth was recognized as a distinct element.

The most common natural appearance of bismuth is in the form of bismuthinite, a sulfide mineral, and native bismuth, which is a rare mineral that occurs in hydrothermal veins with other metallic minerals. Bismuth is found in various locations worldwide, including China, Peru, Bolivia, Mexico, and the United States. Geological forces such as volcanic activity, hydrothermal processes, and magmatic processes contribute to the formation of bismuth deposits.

Bismuth crystals are not found in nature but are produced through a process called fractional crystallization. This process involves slowly cooling a solution of bismuth and other metals, which allows the bismuth to form beautiful, intricate, and geometrically shaped crystals. The crystals can have a range of colors, including silver, pink, blue, purple, and green, depending on the conditions during the crystallization process.

The cost and value of bismuth crystals vary depending on their size, color, and quality. While smaller crystals are more affordable, larger and more intricate crystals can command a premium price among collectors. Bismuth is also used in various industrial and scientific applications, including cosmetics, alloys, and medical imaging.

In conclusion, bismuth crystals are a fascinating and unique element that attract collectors due to their striking colors, intricate patterns, and rarity. Bismuth’s place on the periodic table and its association with other elements make it a valuable addition to any mineral collection. Although bismuth crystals are not found in nature, the process of fractional crystallization produces beautiful and intricate specimens that can command a premium price among collectors. Whether for scientific, industrial, or aesthetic purposes, bismuth crystals continue to capture the attention of collectors worldwide.

Can You Find Stauroites “Fairy Crosses” in Minnesota?

Out of Curiosity, I asked ChatGBT about Stauroites which can be found in Minnesota near Little Falls, but it seems ShatGBT did not know that.

Here is what they do know:

Stauroites is a mineral group that belongs to the amphibole supergroup. It is a relatively uncommon mineral that is not well-known outside of the world of mineral collectors and geologists. However, Stauroites is an interesting and unique mineral group that has a complex chemical makeup and a variety of crystal forms. In this article, we will discuss the chemical makeup and crystal forms of Stauroites, as well as its primary locations in the United States.

Chemical Makeup:

Stauroites is a complex mineral group that consists of iron, magnesium, calcium, sodium, aluminum, silicon, oxygen, and hydroxide ions. The chemical formula for Stauroites is (Fe2+,Mg,Fe3+,Al)9(Si,Al)8O22(OH)2. It is a member of the amphibole supergroup, which includes a large number of minerals that share similar chemical and physical properties. Stauroites is classified as an iron-rich amphibole, which means that it has a high iron content relative to other minerals in the amphibole group.

Crystal Forms:

Stauroites can occur in a variety of crystal forms, including prismatic, tabular, and bladed. The crystals are usually elongated and can range in color from black to dark brown. Stauroites is a pleochroic mineral, which means that they can exhibit different colors when viewed from different angles. It has a strong basal cleavage and is typically found as elongated prismatic crystals that are striated parallel to the long axis. Stauroites can also occur as aggregates of crystals or as massive material.

Primary Locations in the United States:

Stauroites is a relatively rare mineral that is found in a few locations around the world. In the United States, it is primarily found in the states of New York and New Jersey. One of the most famous locations for Stauroites is the Franklin Mine in Franklin, New Jersey. The Franklin Mine is a historic mining site that produced a variety of minerals, including Stauroites, during its operation from the late 19th century until the 1950s. The mine is now a popular destination for mineral collectors and geologists who are interested in studying the minerals that were found there.

In addition to the Franklin Mine, Stauroites has also been found in other locations in New Jersey, including the Sterling Hill Mine and the Trotter Mine. The mineral has also been reported in New York, where it has been found in the Adirondack Mountains and in the town of Macomb in St. Lawrence County.

Conclusion:

Stauroites is a complex mineral group that has a unique chemical makeup and a variety of crystal forms. It is a relatively rare mineral that is primarily found in a few locations in the United States, including the famous Franklin Mine in New Jersey. Although it may not be well-known outside of the world of mineral collectors and geologists, Stauroites is an interesting and important mineral that provides valuable insights into the geology and mineralogy of the Earth’s crust.

However, when asked if they can be found in Minnesota, they blew it.

To the best of my knowledge, there are no known locations in Minnesota where Stauroites has been reported to occur. Stauroites is a relatively rare mineral that is found in only a few locations around the world, primarily in the northeastern United States. While Minnesota is known for its rich geological history and abundant mineral resources, Stauroites is not one of the minerals that is typically found in the state. However, it is important to note that new mineral discoveries are made all the time, and it is possible that Stauroites or related minerals could be found in Minnesota in the future.

The Minnesota Mineral Club has run occasional Field Trips to the Blanchard Dam near Little Falls, where a pocket of Stauroites can be found along the rocky shore south of the dam. Most often you will find pieces, but every once in a while you will encounter an intact “Fairy Cross.” And such little finds, while not particularly valuable can still make one’s day

What Are the Most Popular Metaphysical Stones and Crystals in the United States?

Amethyst
Amethyst

The most popular metaphysical stones and crystals in the US are:

  • Amethyst: Amethyst is a purple quartz that is said to promote relaxation, peace, and spiritual awareness.
  • Rose Quartz: Rose Quartz is a pink quartz that is said to promote love, compassion, and self-love.
  • Clear Quartz: Clear Quartz is a colorless quartz that is said to amplify energy and enhance psychic abilities.
  • Selenite: Selenite is a white crystal that is said to cleanse and purify energy.
  • Labradorite: Labradorite is a blue-green crystal that is said to promote intuition and creativity.
  • Black Tourmaline: Black Tourmaline is a black crystal that is said to protect against negative energy.
  • Citrine: Citrine is a yellow quartz that is said to promote abundance, prosperity, and happiness.
  • Green Aventurine: Green Aventurine is a green quartz that is said to promote luck, money, and abundance.
  • Smoky Quartz: Smoky Quartz is a brown quartz that is said to promote grounding, protection, and emotional stability.
  • Moonstone: Moonstone is a white or grayish-blue crystal that is said to promote intuition, dreams, and emotional balance.

These are just a few of the many metaphysical stones and crystals that are popular in the US. There are many other popular stones, each with its own unique properties and benefits.

Film Boxes Offer New Possibiliites

Film Boxes Suspend Specimens for easier eye enjoyment

We have recently discovered film boxes and think they offer a great way to display many otherwise small specimens. the simple design allows the natural beauty of the rock to show and make show pieces of items that otherwise might be too small to command attention.

We have added the above half dozen to our inventory at Plantiques. We hope you will stop in a see what you think of this new presentation format.

Natural Stone Bracelets

Natural Stone Bracelets

Last year, Joan and I started to sell some jewelry at shows, particularly after I bought a display stand. While in Tucson I picked up a smaller two rod stand that will work much better in a limited space such as we are using at Plantiques during the lockdown and its aftermath, The bottom rod has 3 each of 5 different chip bracelets, amethyst, peridot, rose quartz, citrine and sodalite, all considered to be chakra colors. These are $6 each.

The top rod holds three different bracelets, a moonstone chakra, a tourmaline chakra and a mixed square stone style. The round stone varieties are $8 each, the square stone $12.

Moss Agate Free Forms

Montana Moss Agate is a second sister to her Lake Superior namesake and yet she has a beauty of her own. Recently I cut and polished a number of Montana Agates. They tend to have a lot of cracks which adds to the challenge of bringing out the beauty that is there, The above six pieces have been added to the counter at Plantiques. Modestly priced from $5 to $12 these should be snapped up…or at least I hope so.

Dendritic Sandstone

Dendritic Sandstone from Utah

“Dendrites are branched or tree-like inclusions, usually of manganese or iron oxides, that are caused by irreversible aggregation of small particles forming large clusters.

In other words, the metals in the dirt stain the rock. In this case Quartzite, in a random pattern (Chaos & fractal geometry) like water pressed between two panes of glass. This pattern is a stain that is formed when the seams are split open and the dendritic pattern becomes visible.

-from brochure by Zion Prospector Adventures LLC

I picked up a half dozen examples when I was in Tucson and expected them to be quick sellers on the rock show circuit. Sold one recently at Plantiques and this is the replacement one for that inventory. Only a few to be had so if you are in the area when Plantiques is open, stop on in.

Petosky Stone

Petosky stones are to Michiganers a little like Lake Superior Agates are to Minnesotans, a state favorite. Actually a coral from long ago these popular stones are found on the shores of Lake Michigan and polished to maximize their natual beauty.

We sold one of the three on-site at Plantiques and will be adding this particular stone today to maintain at least a little choice. I wish we had a lot more of these.

Opalite Skulls Capture Imagination

Spooky Opalite Skulls

These Opalite Skulls keep selling for us. The translucent opalite gives an otherworldly quality to these, ideal for haloween or day of the dead or just scary. Part of Joanies Rocks Carved Critters line up of interesting rock carvings.

These last two are being added to the Plantiques Stock as they have sold out their last one last week.