Whoever is not familiar with the trade always imagines that crystals are found and collected in very distant exotic countries, or in the darkest depths of the Earth, but this is only to a small extent. In fact, stones and crystals used in crystal therapy are usually quite common in the mineral landscape.
Entering the world of collectors, we first discover that minerals are not so rare and that we have numerous opportunities to buy them. And that's not all: if we want, we can also learn to find them for ourselves .
In addition to giving a special satisfaction and often representing an unforgettable experience, this road creates a link that is difficult to describe between the crystal and the one who finds it . It is no coincidence that mineral seekers very rarely get rid of what they have found. Contrary to what one might think, this link has little to do with economic value .
Crystal finder rules
If we want to move safely, we need to know the Italian laws on mineral collection .
First and foremost, we must always make sure we respect the environment and private property, activating ourselves to find permits when they are needed. Secondly, we must always use appropriate tools. For non-professionals, a bribe and chisel are often enough, sometimes even a shovel for digging.
When we get to the point of digging, we need to know exactly where and how much . For example, it is forbidden to dig near roads and you must submit to precise limits of depth.
Once we have found our crystals, we must respect the collection limits : in other words, a private citizen cannot stock up on quintals of material without permits or concessions.
Where to look for minerals and stones
Italy is a country blessed by nature when we talk about minerals, thanks to the mountains and the rich volcanic activity. Many regions have mines and quarries, often no longer active, where it is possible to obtain a permit for an amateur collection .
Many mountains, at different altitudes, offer wonderful varieties of quartz, which with a little experience in the field are available to everyone, after having learned to recognize the veins and know how to work them.
It is impossible to make here a list of all the places where it is possible to collect minerals and the most sensible advice is to join a mineralogical group .
The importance of mineralogical groups
Over the years, without large investments and with a good dose of patience, you will certainly find beautiful crystals after hours spent pleasantly in nature .
Getting in touch with a mineralogical group, however, also offers some more opportunities: you can see the members' private collections, take part in exhibitions and exchange-sale days .
On these occasions you can buy the crystals found directly by the researchers; often you still have to finish cleaning them completely. This option is not to be discarded, for those who want to start building a good crystal glass park .
The last option is the online purchase, which (however secure) usually imposes higher prices for lower quality crystals. More importantly, the connection between you, the crystal and its cradle of origin is much weaker and frayed.
Credit photo Zbynek Burival
