How does one find gems?

[LibB]

Hi Gem and everyone, could you let me know how to find gems and crystals Please. I'm not sure what to look for and would like to know if one needs a hammer or any other tools. How do people know where to look and when I see a huge crystal cave of Amethyst for example cut in two where do they come from. Not the country but from the earth? Are they sticking up out of the ground or in caves. I'm hoping you would love to help me learn so I can find some heavenly crystal's/gem's of my own. I'd like to become a proud crystal owner from scratch. Thanks for any help
I'm asking for Victoria, Australia info or general info of what to look for and how.
Love and light to you
Libby

[Gem]

I'm not telling lol

Nah really, your question is so huge! Where to begin... try doing a geological search on your area and then broaden it, visit beaches and rivers and caves (always with safety in mind) anywhere that rock is exposed.

Try this site as a start...   http://www.australianminesatlas.gov.au/TOC.jsp

http://www.australianminesatlas.gov.au/ ... s/opal.jsp


That might give you clues on where to go as a start.

[LibB]

Thanks Gem!!! I'll look into it.

[paramour]

i have a feeling most of the real beauties are mined. i have found some outstanding stones - a petoski and a carnelian and some crystals - on the freshwater shores of Lake Michigan. the local rock hound shop is the easiest, however. 8D

[CaroJ11]

Libby, the best thing to do is join a local rockhounding club.  It's not really possible here to explain all about how to best equip yourself, and where to hunt in Australia.