Five Star Gift Ideas

For a rock hound enthusiast, finding and collecting rocks in nature is a source of peace, curiosity and excitement. It's a great hobby that teaches him to appreciate geology and nature. Here are a few great gift ideas for your son to enhance his rock hounding experience:

1. Rock Hounding Field Guide: A good field guide on geology can help your son become more efficient and knowledgeable when it comes to rock hounding. There are many compact and portable field guides that cover everything from rock formations to mineral identification. One of my favorites is the "National Geographic Pocket Guide to Rocks and Minerals of North America", which includes photos of common rocks and minerals and also includes tips for identifying and collecting them.

2. Rock Tumbler: A rock tumbler can be a great way for your son to polish and clean his finds before displaying them. It's also a fun way to see the transformation of rough, unpolished rocks into pretty and shiny gems. You can find rock tumblers for beginners that come with different grits and stones or you can get a more advanced, high-end tumbler that can polish bigger rocks and minerals.

3. Mining Kit: Your son might enjoy a mining kit that allows him to mine his own crystals at home. These kits often include a block of clay, a digging tool, and a set of crystals or gemstones that he can dig out of the block himself. Your son will discover his own hidden treasure by using the mining kit in his spare time.

4. Rock Collection Display Case: A good way to show off his rock collection is by giving him a display case. This can elevate his rocks' appearances while keeping them organized and scratch-free. Look for cases with compartments and glass tops that will make it easier for your son to show off his favorite specimens.

5. Hammer and Chisel Set: For a more hands-on approach to rock hounding, a hammer and chisel set will help your son to get personal with his rocks. It's a phsyical effort that will take him more time and effort to get to his treasure, but it will make for a challenging and interesting experience.

By giving your son one or more of these gifts, you can further strengthen his love for rock hounding by providing him an additional "tool" to explore this fascinating hobby.

Or you can get him a star map with an important date you share.

Madeline Moran Weiler says about Under Lucky Stars star maps:

“The map was absolutely beautiful! My grandson was thrilled with it (it was a Christmas gift) and has already asked me if I would consider getting another one for him as a graduation gift in a couple of years.”