Rock hounds and crystal enthusiasts to gather in qathet

In June, the qathet region will be influxed with lapidaries and rock hounds; the Latin word for stone is lapis, and a lapidary refers to a person who cuts, polishes or engraves precious stones.

A rock hound is defined as an amateur mineralogist. This hobby and art form has grown in popularity over the past few years, especially on Vancouver Island.

Rock and crystal enthusiasts Barb Creber, from Vancouver Island and Kyla Mazurak, who is local, will host a rock, gem and crystal show in the hall at Royal Canadian Legion Branch 164, Powell River, on Saturday, June 10, and Sunday, June 11.

Geologically, BC is diverse, and a great hunting ground for a collector.

“We try to source our rocks from Vancouver Island, for example the flower stone and the ocean-picture stone,” said Creber.

BC is made up of many micro-continents that have become fused onto the side of North America over millions of years; this created a diversity of rock and good potential for minerals to form.

Creek beds, veins and dykes are where most prospectors look for specimens. Creber said many rock and mineral enthusiasts cut their own stones and polish them as well.

“There will be 25 to 30 tables at the event, including rocks, slabs, handmade jewellery, a silversmith and a gold prospector.”

Creber has been hosting shows for seven years, and she took up making her own jewellery after her retirement.

“It’s been a great hobby,” said Creber. “My husband has been an avid rock hound for years.”

During the COVID-19 pandemic, “rockhounding became so popular,” she added. “You can go by yourself or with family members, to the beach or a creek. It got us out of the house, got us into nature.

“I go out when the creeks are low, in autumn, and in August.”

There are now a plethora of rock-hound groups on social media, where people can post information about shows, or, show off what they may have found while out on a hunt, and ask questions about how to identify rocks and minerals.