satchel
off to a rocking start
Member since August 2009
Posts: 19
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Post by satchel on Sept 8, 2009 14:12:26 GMT -5
Does anyone know a good spot where I can collect good cutting material or purchase slabs or material to cut slabs, in the northeast. I'm from western ny and new to the hobby, I'm in the process of making my own saw and grinder / polisher but now i need to start getting some material together to practice on. I'm not looking for anything fancy just some nice stone to practice on. Let me know what's out there. Thanks!
Jesse
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Post by frane on Sept 8, 2009 19:08:24 GMT -5
Welcome to the board Jesse. I am not sure what is in your area but there are a few members here that live in that area. Maybe they will pipe up and give you a few areas to check out. Also, see if you have a local gem and mineral society. They are a very good source of information about where to collect and what is available, as well as shows in your area. most will schedule trips that you can go on and collect where you normally would not be allowed to go. In the mean time, start collecting rocks from where you live and practice cutting. Sometimes you will be amazed by what you find, even if it is a conglomerate or maybe some granite. Just have fun! Fran
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Sabre52
Cave Dweller
Me and my gal, Rosie
Member since August 2005
Posts: 20,456
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Post by Sabre52 on Sept 8, 2009 19:23:38 GMT -5
Jesse: Welcome. You might go to the library and try to find a copy of any of John Sinkankas' books on Gemstones of North America. He lists a number of good areas to look around in New York state in volume 1 and probably has more locations in 2+3. His descriptions of where to look are pretty good to as I've used them myself for western locations...Mel
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Post by stonesthatrock on Sept 9, 2009 14:43:30 GMT -5
hi jesse, welcome to the board. you will love all the help you get here.
mary ann
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Mudshark
fully equipped rock polisher
Diplomacy is the art of saying 'Nice doggie' until you can find a rock. Will Rogers
Member since December 2008
Posts: 1,083
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Post by Mudshark on Sept 9, 2009 17:44:28 GMT -5
Jesse,Fran and Mel gave you some great advice.What I would do is just get out and start sniffing around,rivers and streams are a good place to start.If there are any state parks nearby the rangers could probably help you out.It's a lot of fun to pack up some food and water and pick a spot and spend some time just kicking around,you might be surprised at what you find.When I go I travel light,my backpack,a small canvas bag for the rocks and my rock hammer and maybe a small spray bottle. Good luck Hunting!!!
Mike
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Post by NatureNut on Sept 9, 2009 18:25:13 GMT -5
Hi Jesse, According to Mindat.org, a mineralogy database www.mindat.org/loc-20691.html , there may be some Dolomite and Fluorite in your area. They both may be too soft to tumble, but sure can be pretty. I also see there are many mines in your area, you might want to see what is being mined where to get an idea of what direction you want to head for your hunting. Just for the heck of it, I did a quick web search and came up with this for ya to browse: www.johnbetts-fineminerals.com/jhbnyc/articles.htmNot sure how you feel about herkimer diamonds, but Herkimer is about 2 1/2 hours east of you. Jo
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satchel
off to a rocking start
Member since August 2009
Posts: 19
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Post by satchel on Sept 9, 2009 20:31:15 GMT -5
Thanks for all the good information. I plan on going to herkimer in october. I will start venturing out on the weekends, once the season starts to change it would be the best. I'll keep it updated with my findings. thanks again everyone
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NDK
Cave Dweller
Member since January 2009
Posts: 9,440
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Post by NDK on Sept 9, 2009 22:26:16 GMT -5
I have to thank you too Jo, that's a super site! Lots of great info on there!
Nate
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