About My Simple Need
A little curiosity. A world of discovery.
Rocks, gemstones, and gold have a way of making us look a little closer. My Simple Need helps you turn that curiosity into knowledge for your next find.
Why we’re here
Make the next step simpler.
What is this stone? Where could I look for gold? What do I need to get started? A new hobby often begins with a simple question, followed by more information than you know what to do with.
My Simple Need is a practical hobby journal for people interested in rockhounding, gemstones, and gold prospecting. Our focus is on clear explanations, useful starting points, and guides you can return to as your interests grow.
Whether you’re puzzling over your first find or planning another day outdoors, our aim is to help you understand what to look for, where to begin, and what to bring.
What you’ll find here
Follow your curiosity.
Explore a new interest or take the next step in a hobby you already enjoy.
Rockhounding
Discover places to search for rocks and minerals, learn what makes a location promising, and prepare for time in the field.
Explore rockhounding locations →Rocks & gemstones
Get familiar with the colors, patterns, and properties that help you understand your finds and build your collecting knowledge.
Browse the latest guides →Gold prospecting
Explore gold-finding techniques, panning locations, paydirt, and tools to help you plan your next prospecting adventure.
Start learning about gold →Our approach
Useful knowledge for curious people.
You don’t need to know every mineral or own every tool to start learning. A thoughtful starting point goes a long way.
- Keep it understandableWe aim to explain unfamiliar terms and techniques in plain language, with practical details you can use.
- Make room for learningA photo or a single clue may only tell part of the story. Compare properties, ask questions, and keep building your knowledge.
- Explore with careBefore collecting, check current access, land ownership, local rules, and any permit requirements. Respect the places you visit and leave them clean.
- Keep the conversation openHave a correction, a useful detail, or an idea for a future guide? Reader feedback helps us see what needs more attention.
Get in touch
Have something to share?
Send a question, suggest a topic, or let us know about a detail in one of our guides. We’d love to hear what you’re exploring.
Contact My Simple Need