A “self-collected” mineral would technically mean it picked itself up and hopped into your bucket! 😂
Should we call them what they are — personally collected minerals?
👉 What’s your favourite piece you’ve found yourself?
#RockCollecting #MineralHumor #FieldCollecting #RockHoundLife #OutdoorAdventures #mineralcollecting #theassayhouse

Collectors joke about this highly contagious condition – marked by sweaty palms at mineral shows, late-night online hunts, and the irresistible urge to buy just one more specimen. There’s no cure… and honestly, who’d want one?  
It starts with curiosity – a single crystal that sparks fascination. Soon, shelves overflow and vacations turn into collecting trips. But behind the humour is the real joy: that rush of discovery when you hold a piece of Earth’s hidden beauty in your hand. 
#MineralCollecting #GeologyLovers #MineralPox #CrystalCollectors #RockHounds #GeologyCommunity #MineralPhotography #theassayhouse

What really makes a mineral valuable? 
It’s easy to think it’s all about size, colour, or sparkle – but the real worth of a specimen lies in condition, provenance, and locality.
  Condition – A flawless, crystal will beat a chipped one.
  Provenance – A specimen’s history add depth and authenticity.
  Locality – Minerals from long-closed mines can never be replaced.
Collectors are more than owners - they’re caretakers of geological history.  
#MineralCollecting #GeologyLovers #Rockhounds #CrystalCollectors #MineralValue #Provenance #RareMinerals #GeologyCommunity #EarthScience #MineralCollection #theassayhouse

Guesswork can seriously damage your mineral collection. A wrong ID or mislabelled locality quickly becomes “fact,” misleading future collectors and reducing scientific value. Minerals often look alike, so rely on testing - hardness, luster, crystal form, streak, acid reactions - and trusted references. And if you’re still unsure? Label it honestly. “Unknown locality” is far better than a bad guess. Accuracy isn’t optional - it’s the mark of an experienced collector. #MineralCollecting #Rockhounds #CrystalCollectors #MineralID #GeologyCommunity #SpecimenLabeling #theassayhouse

Finding the perfect specimen takes time! Experienced collectors don’t rush - they study colour, condition, price and crystal form carefully.
👉 How do you choose your next mineral? By colour, chemistry, location, rarity, value, or just because you like it?
#MineralCollectors #RockHoundLife #MineralShow #CollectorTips #theassayhouse

Good lighting can make your collection sparkle like a museum exhibit. 
Arrange by size, colour, or mineral type – and keep your lights bright but cool to protect sensitive crystals.
👉 How do you display your minerals at home? #MineralDisplay #CollectorsCorner #GeologyCommunity #MineralCollecting #theassayhouse

Ever wondered if that metallic brown crystal is goethite or hematite? You can find out in 15 seconds using simple home tests — hardness, streak, or acid reaction. Even experienced collectors forget the basics sometimes. 🧪💎
👉 Have you tried identifying minerals this way? Tell us how it went! #MineralCollecting #RockHounds #GeologyBasics #MineralTesting #CollectorsCorner Image Credits - CC KarlaPanchuk

Apophyllite… Fluorapophyllite-(K)… Stilbite... Stilbite-(Ca)… and next year they will probably change again! The ever-evolving world of mineral names can drive anyone crazy. Many collectors still prefer the classic names they grew up with — and honestly, who can blame them? 🪨💬
👉 Do you use the new names or stick with the old ones? #Minerals #GeologyHumor #CollectorsLife #MineralNames Image Credit - CC Rob M.Lavinsky

You’re only the temporary owner of your minerals — the labels tell their stories. Old labels reveal provenance, add history, and sometimes increase value. Keep them safe and keep the story alive!
👉 How do you store your specimen labels? #MineralHistory #CollectorsTips #Provenance #GeologyCommunity #MineralCollecting Image Credit - CC Mark's Minerals