It started with a geode.
Fossil Hound in an independent mineral and gem exploration organization traveling around the world in search of interesting rocks and geology knowledge. Finding unique stones and formations is only a part of the motivation though. We also enjoy the beauty of traversing the wild back-country as well as visiting local mining deposits to meet new people who like sharing their own mining experiences. The geology all around us has a powerful story to tell and every excursion teaches us a little bit more about life on Earth. This website enables us to publicly share our experiences which hopefully may benefit fellow explorers.
There is always the lure of an incredible, once in a lifetime find, but for Fossil Hound the thrill is in discovering how geological processes result in rare gems and minerals often sought out by explorers the world over. It's the story behind the find which is most provocative and enticing toward planning future expeditions. Beyond monetary gain there is an incredibly surreal feeling when surfacing minerals and gems subjected to a vast number of precise conditions; The basic idea of how much a rock went through to end up where it was finally found.
We share a unique experience with nature when mining and excavating. With a deep respect for the environment, it is Fossil Hound's ethical objective and day to day moral principal, to ensure any areas visited are left as they were found for others to enjoy. This means not littering and not damaging rock formations or soils to extract anything. It means always obtaining permission from property owners or paying for entry into mining sites and following the rules of claims without hesitation. It means filling permissible dig areas and not leaving piles of debris behind. Fossil Hound is serious about its impact on the environment and understands there are many other explorers out there who want to enjoy nature in a similar way. Therefor it is our duty to ensure anything we do does not adversely affect anyone else or the environment.