RockHoundry
The Journal
UV Fluorescence: What's Actually Happening When a Mineral Glows
The electron-level physics behind mineral fluorescence, three real matches from the fluorescence guide's curated dataset, and the shortwave eye and skin safety habits that actually matter.
Identifying a Mineral by Combination of Properties, Not Any Single Test
A full worked identification walkthrough — hardness, specific gravity, and crystal system run on one mystery specimen — including what to do when the numbers don't converge cleanly on an obvious answer.
Collecting Responsibly and Legally: Permits, Limits, and Leave-No-Trace for Rockhounds
Why collecting rules vary enormously by jurisdiction and land type, a worked example quantifying a day's haul by weight, and the Leave No Trace habits that keep sites open for the next collector.