Raw stones need someone's knowledge?

[Franniegee]

My husband has found some very beautiful stones in northeastern New York, unfortunately we are ignorant but eager to learn. Was wondering if someone would be willing to look at some pics and give us an educated guess as to what we have here? I understand that it may be difficult without seeing the specimens in person, but based on where they were found and the images, we are hoping for a place to begin our research. I don't even know to whom I might bring them, and trying to compare pics online is confusing. Thank you in advance for your time and help.

 

[MollyMalone]

HI, Frannie

I don't know how far north and east you are (e.g., Plattsburgh?), but I'm thinking it could be fun and worthwhile for you to meet up with a local "rockhound" group; those folks are typically delighted to meet-help out newcomers to the gems, minerals, fossils found in their "neighborhood" and beyond. Here's the web site for the Capital District Mineral Club (Albany), which is an active one:
http://capitaldistrictmineralclub.com

I don't know of a similar group farther north, but I bet the Capital District club knows of whatever clubs there may be in the Adirondacks. You could also call Herkimer Diamond Mines' main office & ask them:
http://www.herkimerdiamond.com
And/or the New York State Museum in Albany & ask if someone in the NYS Academy of Mineralogy (housed in the Museum, I think) knows of a club in the Adirondacks.

If you've not been there, the State Museum is an "off the beaten track" attraction that has a nicely done permanent exhibition on New York gems & minerals:
http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/exhibitions/ongoing/minerals-new-york-0
-- and more
http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/exhibitions
http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/exhibitions/ongoing
http://www.nysm.nysed.gov/programs
-- enough to make into a day trip, or even a weekend visit to Albany when combined with other things to see-do in the area.

Let me know if you don't live in the Adirondacks (or in the Albany area) & would like info on groups elsewhere in the state.