A Guide to Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones

A guide to Rocks, Minerals and Gemstones

For many of us, the word `Treasure` might evoke images of pirates hoarding rather large chests of gold coins and precious jewels, and in truth, the fascination with these beautiful nuggets has hardly diminished - although there are far more legal ways of enjoying them! In fact, many of us are probably unaware of how many of the earth`s natural treasures we use in our daily lives, from the copper in wires, the salt on our food, the minerals that make up pens, computers and cooking pots to the jewellery that we wear.

The UK is well noted for its natural resources and has a long history of mining in coal, iron and steel; however, the diversity of the British landscape means that it is also a haven for any geologist, with evidence of rocks dating back to the Archaen Period which is at least 2,700 Ma (`Ma` meaning `Millions of years ago`). The UK is no longer a producer of metal ores with the last tin mine in Cornwall closing down in 1998, but there is still a significant income of approximately £2bn per year generated from exporting our industrial minerals as well as china clay, salt, potash and many others.

Rocks are divided into three main groups: igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary, and each of these has further sub-categories. Metamorphic Minerals are frequently referred to as `gem stones` because of their natural beauty. The most common type of metamorphic rock is marble which is transformed from limestone and is frequently used in our homes, and slate which is transformed from mudstone and is likewise used domestically. Garnet, corundum and kyanite are also metamorphic minerals and sapphires and rubies are varieties of these.

There are several active networks and conservation projects that continue to protect and study the earth`s natural treasures all across the country. Some of the most noted mines, caves and pits across the UK include Wales, which was once particularly noted for its gold, Derbyshire, Yorkshire, Leicestershire, Staffordshire, Lincolnshire and Cumbria. Cumbria alone is home to a number of mines in Frizington where geologists will find examples of Aragonite, Baryte, Cacite, Flourite, Hematite, Pyrite and Quartz - rose quartz is often used in jewellery because of its delicate colouring, but it is also valued by many for its spiritual and healing properties. Calcite is frequently used in toothpaste, chewing gum, soap and as component for making mortar, demonstrating how regularly we use minerals without always being aware.

There is a great fascination with minerals, and in particular, gemstones, to the extent that many people collect them and are often willing to pay well to add to their collections if the mineral is rare or beautiful enough. There are plenty of opportunities for expeditions if anyone wants to see the rocks in their natural locations. Joining a mineral/geology or mining society would be a great way to find out more about any organised field trips. The National Stone Centre in Derbyshire is a well known visitor centre and provides a range of facilities and activities relating to earth heritage.

Make sure you`re prepared for your first field trip, for the best head- start, visit: which backpacks.