Fossil Collecting

Why collect fossils? One obvious reason is because of the natural beauty of fossils, and the mysterious intrigue they possess. Amber, fossilized tree sap, is a particularly stunning fossil, commonly used in making jewelry. Some fossils are used in making furniture, and other household decorations. Additionally, fossils make an excellent display or conversation piece, largely because they tell a fascinating and unique story. Displaying fossils can provide you the opportunity to share your interest with others and educate friends and family about the significance of fossils.

Fossil Collecting: How and Why?

When beginning your fossil collection, you have three basic options: go out on your own and find a fossil, purchase a fossil from a reputable buyer, or purchase a fossil replica. Obviously, the fastest and easiest way to start your fossil collection is to purchase replicas or fossils that have already been excavated. If your time and money is limited, purchasing a replica is probably the best choice for you. However, there is a certain pride that comes with finding your own fossils.

If you choose to find your own fossils, expect to make a little preparation, have a lot of patience and lots of luck. Your preparation should begin with a field guide with general instructions for finding and excavating fossils. Next, check out your local library to learn about your area's geology and natural history. Finally, pay a visits to your local museum to view the fossils on display. Take notes, make a list of questions, and find a paleontologist to speak with you.

When you're ready to begin searching, you'll want to start in an area known to have already yielded fossils, so check with your local museum or rock club. Dry or shallow creek beds and banks provide a good starting point, where you can search the bottom of the creek for bone fragments. Follow the fragments up the creek in search of larger bone bits, and when you no longer see bone, begin to examine the banks for fossils. Alternatively, ask permission to search in rock quarries or near new road or railway construction.

Finding and excavating your own fossils can be exciting and rewarding, but it can also be very difficult and time-consuming. If you're ready to begin your fossil collection immediately, consider purchasing fossils or fossil replicas to maintain your motivation while you search on your own. Fossil replicas are readily available and very reasonably priced, and most are remarkably authentic in appearance.