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December 18, 2013 21 www.DesertMessenger.com ADVENTURES WITH ROCKS SEEK AND YE SHALL FIND By Jenn Jedidiah Free for RocksInMyHead™ The desert around Quartzsite is full of gold, copper, and other minerals. The Dome Rock Mountains to the West, the Plomosa Mountains to the East, and the Livingston Hills to the South are all full of gold and mineral claims. Situated in between Copper deposits, and gold/copper deposits are found in the Plomosa Mountains. Other minerals like chrysacolla, pyrite, and galena are abundant here because of their association with these ores. these mountain ranges is the La Posa Plain crisscrossed with washes that are literally saturated with gold bearing gravel. Between the Dome Rock area and La Paz there are several working mines and numerous claims in this mineral-rich area. Understanding geology and other scientific aspects of a mineral bearing location gives the prospector insights into where, why, and how a mineral is found. For the most part, they accumulate in particular areas, under specific conditions. Because of this, mineral deposits are relatively predictable. With study and practice, the prospector can learn how to "read" the terrain and understand where gold or other minerals deposits would likely occur within an area. While modern prospecting equipment and technology has made locating and recovering gold and other minerals easier, still the best tools to use are your eyes and brain. Gold was first mined in the Quartzsite area, historically at least, in the La Paz valley around 1862. Both Lode and Placer deposits are found in the Plomosa and Dome Rock Mountains surrounding Quartzsite. Copper was discovered in Arizona in 1854. To be consistently successful in treasure hunting, whether for gold, fossils, minerals, or gemstones, the prospector must learn the ins, outs, wheres and whys of what he is seeking. The best equipment and technology is not a substitute for knowlMexico Prices...USA Made!! DENTURES edge, skill, and practice. In addition to learning how to use one's equipment, a basic working knowledge of the area's geology is important to success. Other things prospectors must learn is characteristics and habits of the treasure they seek. Books, maps, videos and reference guides help to build a knowledge base and a foundation for understanding and learning while out in the field. Geological surveys provide detailed information on known mineral deposits, and topo maps show land use, boundaries, roads, trails, and loads of other useful information to help the prospector locate his treasure. History can tell us much, too. Much information can be gleaned from old books and maps. Historical accounts are often painstakingly accurate. Areas that were known to be productive in the past, typically still are to a degree. Many times, early prospectors and miners mapped or journaled about the mineral bearing areas they discovered. Some old maps, archives, and writings contain a wealth of information on productive deposits. Other, more experienced prospectors are valuable sources of knowledge, as well. Much treasure is here to be found, but time, effort, and education are required to find it. Sometimes that means studying books and maps, and working areas that are less well known or more remote rather than the easy ones where everyone else has gone. The more preparation that is done, the more chances you have of finding what you are looking for. It is worth investing a little extra time and effort to make your prospecting trips more productive. Above all, have fun. Enjoy your time outdoors, regardless of whether you find what you are looking for. Explore and appreciate the beauty of nature, the mystery of a ghost town, or the eeriness of an abandoned mine. Revel in the entire experience, and every prospecting adventure will be a total success. For books, maps and other resources on mineral deposits in and around Quartzsite come to Rocks In My Head, Space A37, at Rice Ranch, phone: 605-376-8754. We also have a great selection of prospecting supplies, tools, and equipment available, as well as information on local gold and mineral deposits. We are open from 10-5, 7 days a week, and online In addition to knowledge, it is also 24-7 at www.RocksInMyHead.com. important to get off the beaten path. ' Here we go again! We are loaded with goodies! Furniture, Glassware, Yard Art, Antiques, Collectables, Linens, Jewelry. Lots of Vintage Items...and Great Prices! NOW OPEN!H $350 Full Set (replacement) Hope to see you here! QUARTZSITE SNOWBIRD SPECIAL: 315 E. Ironwood, Quartzsite (next to the QIA) Same Day Dentures and 1 Hour Reline/Repairs!! • US Military trained w/ 30 plus years experience • Implant Dentures Available • Partials starting at $175 http://www.DLSAZ.com Call: 623-444-4013 • Goodyear, AZ Dental Laboratory Service Vendor Spaces Available OPEN DAILY 9-4 THRU FEBRUARY