Hello, my name is Patrick and I am a rock hound. I always had an interest in some field stone I would find growing up near Palmer Rapids ON. I'd save the odd interesting piece and when I found out about a mine near Quadeville that would let you take what ever you could carry for a fee of $5, I couldn't help but come away with 2 5 gallon buckets of mostly Quartz. That was about 25 years ago and, being a dumbass, I've moved those rocks from apartment to apartment, house to house for 25 years. Recently I started getting lapidary equipment and started seeing the amazing rocks and gems that are out there. I started with a tumbler, then I found a cabochon preformer which needs a bit of attention. Last year I got a lortone combo machine, vibrating flat lap and a bit of rough amethyst. Recently I came across a Royal rock saw and the same seller sold me all of his rough stock for great prices. Larimar, malachite, rhodochrosite,chrysoprase, lapis lazuli, petrified wood, Dino bone etc. WOW!!
I am a cabinetmaker whose head is full of wood and sawdust, and have next to no knowledge, of working with stone. I've kinda gone about the journey backwards, but I've finally arrived here to see what to do with my massive pile of rocks, and how to do it. The Quartz is all out in the yard since it pales in comparison to the other stuff I've got.
Sorry to run on so much...looking forward to gaining what ever knowledge and advice I can from this awesome site.