where to start? an enthusiast beginner prospector

[arthursalomon]

Hello, I was wonder if anyone can direct me in how to practice “prospecting for minerals” actually, in the field. I did spent time trying to understand the basics of prospecting. Unfortunately I believe the land status can get a little confusing specialty with so much Federal Land around Maryland.

I live in Maryland and I was wonder if anyone knows a place where I can prospect just to have a feeling of it, for practice purposes (Just for clarification I’m not asking for your secret spot because, I do respect all the work the prospectors do!). I do not care if there is no crystals down there, I just want to get experience hands on digging and recognizing clues in the field that may direct me in the future to find my first own pocket!

So far I comprehend that you can prospect in National Forest with some exemptions. Even tough, all the most interesting topics are related to western states.

Thanks for taking your time to read my post.

[faron]

I was so excited to join this forum, but it looks like nothing but breeze and tumbleweeds.

[justarock]

search "Maryland minerals and gems" got several hits. The library for geology maps, sometimes you have to do a little "digging" before you start digging. Check if there is a mineral/geology club in your area.