We handcut from rough rock for our lapidary jewelery designs.

I decided to write this guide for those of you who are interested in rocks

and gemstones. When first starting out it can be overwhelming yet fun.

I would suggest FIRE MOUNTAIN GEMS AND BEADS CATALOGI

It is great when trying to identify a rock or gemstone. The brief descriptions and pictures.
on rocks and  gemstones are easier to identify with a picture sometimes. Some rocks can look alot alike ,but a picture can help you better identify the specific kind. An example of this would be the different types of Jade and Jadeite.

Rocks and Minerals is also a good reference book. It also is illustrated and tells how the rocks and minerals form! It is quite interesting. you can see if there is a Gems and Minerals Society in your area also.

You can checkout a few of our handcut items from rough rock. A chart with rock indentification and the sample rock would be good. I have rough handcut sample rock left over after cutting and slabbing a rock.  Sample  gemstones are also  available.

I started with  books,  rocks and gemstones. I read the books, used our lapidary equipment on the rough rock  and tumbled the gemstones. The better I became at identifying, cutting and textures of certain rocks and minerals... I got into the more complex rocks beyond the basics. 

Gem shows are a very reliable,unlimited source of information. People from around the world

share their experiences with rocks, gemstones and minerals they have obtained. Different areas around the U.S. have their rock hounders and expertise  in rocks available in their area. 

A good rockhounder in your area can be an incredible resource of information. There is always something new you can learn about  rocks.  

 I  Hope this helps!