Beneath the hustle of city streets and the quiet of upstate towns of New York state lies a surprising criminal world. Thieves target valuable rocks, minerals, gems, and gold across our state. Most folks think big heists only happen in movies or faraway places. The truth might shock you. From museum break-ins to jewelry store … Read more
Imagine yourself holding a piece of the deep red sky at sunset. That’s what holding a ruby feels like! It’s a kind of corundum that gets its captivating red color from a tiny bit of chromium inside it. Because of what ruby looks like, it has been loved for thousands of years and worn by … Read more
Rubies glow with a deep, mesmerizing red, like the first blush of a sunset. They remind us of passion and love. On the other side, emeralds capture the essence of a lush, green forest. They’re like windows to a world of peace and serenity. You might wonder, with such stunning beauty, how do these two … Read more
Ruby is a gem that has made its mark in history, culture, and fashion. It can be found in countries all over the world, like Thailand, Myanmar, Mozambique, Sri Lanka, and the United States. Now, if you’re wondering how to identify ruby after finding one, you’ll need to learn its unique traits and how to … Read more
Royalty, power, and passion: all of these have long been associated with the beautiful Ruby gem. With its luscious red hue, rarity, and durability, Ruby has captivated hearts and minds for centuries. Its timeless appeal and cultural significance have crowned it the “King of Gemstones”. And what price would you put on a King if … Read more
Gem mining in Alabama is a rewarding hobby that brings out the explorer in everyone. From sparkling crystals to richly colored stones, the state hides a wealth of treasures waiting to be uncovered. With so many unique formations across Alabama, each outing can reveal something new. There are a variety of natural settings across Alabama … Read more
There is a surprising number of spots to hunt for gems in Kansas. Beneath the surface, colorful stones wait in places shaped by water, wind, and time. You don’t need fancy tools to find them, just patience and a sense of where to look. When you start noticing subtle differences in color and texture, each … Read more
Hunting for wild truffles in Nevada is nothing like picking mushrooms off a log. These underground fungi are rare, valuable, and surprisingly well hidden, even in forests you’ve walked through a dozen times. Truffles form deep underground, growing in partnership with the roots of specific trees. That connection makes them nearly impossible to spot without … Read more
South Dakota hides edible plants across its varied landscape. The state grows plenty of wild foods that anyone can collect with the right knowledge. Foraging connects people to traditional food sources that predate grocery stores. Hunting for wild edibles makes hiking and camping extra rewarding. Many nutritious plants grow in prairies, woodlands, and near water … Read more
Tucked between deserts, mountains, and forests, crystals in California have drawn collectors for decades. The state’s size and variety mean countless environments where minerals quietly wait to be uncovered. Each region holds its own kind of beauty, and part of the fun is learning how different landscapes reveal different crystal types. Sometimes, the best clues … Read more
