When I arrived at this little hidden treasure trove, I had no idea this was where I was about to spend the next 3 weeks getting to know this amazing couple Al & Alberta Fling. They took me in and humbly allowed me to course correct their rock shop, as well as build them a website, well we noticed that their was a spike in attention when customers saw a mineralogist in house day after day. That's when Al being the kind smart man he is, "Cody" he said, " what if we add one more building on this corner amd you host your guided tours, We would have the Diamond Classics Classes to teach hands on diamond mining taught with a real diamond unlike anyone else in that town and as a bonus to you when you pay for the class, you get rental equipment for the day as well all included in one low price of $25 a person and kids are if course free.Then you have the rock shop for people to browse with. Soon their will be the Show &Tell room which will basically be the Crater of Diamonds Hall of Fame room that Al eagerly wants to show off the amazing people he had met over the 13 years Alberta and himself had come to know. He humbly immediately donated it to a wonderful woman Wagner who has over 500 documented diamonds with the state park. I had a opportunity to meet this woman she was as cool and down to earth as Al claimed. Then He wanted the website for educational purposes as well as to providing a inside look at the minerals they had to offer as well as being able to book early with him so you have the best chance .to find your diamond, Miss Wagner is yhe one that taught Al and Alberta so that's the handed down technique training your looking for not anyone else offering, especially free lessons, you want to pay for your lessons bec as you know you get what you pay for, and no doubt you'll be confident when you leave their lil corner store.Its located to the immediate left of the Towns Hardware Store in the corner of mauney and Washington. They also have the first ever Rockhounding Vending Machine. When you go to the Diamond Mine make sure to save your centers, (don't know what centers are? Another reason you should pay for this lesson and you get free rental equipment with it so win-win) save your centers and bring them back to shop Al will go threw them with you. Hands down lived this place 5 stars in my book.Unearth Your Diamond Dreams at the Crater of Diamonds Corner Store

Hands-On Diamond Mining Classes & More!

Embark on an unforgettable diamond hunting adventure at the Crater of Diamonds Corner Store, where passion for gems and mineralogy shines bright. Our experienced team, led by Al and Alberta Fling, provides expert guidance and personalized attention to help you discover your very own diamond.

Diamond Classics Classes:

 * Master diamond mining techniques through our hands-on Diamond Classics Classes.

 * Learn from a trained mineralogist and gain insider knowledge.

 * Receive rental equipment for the day, included in the class price of $25 per person (kids are free!).

Uncover Hidden Treasures in Our Rock Shop:

 * Browse a wide selection of fascinating minerals and unique gemstones.

 * Witness the Crater of Diamonds Hall of Fame room, showcasing amazing finds.

 * Learn about the rich history of diamond hunting in the area.

Educational Website & Booking Platform:

 * Deepen your knowledge of diamonds and mineralogy through our informative website.

 * Book your classes and equipment rentals in advance for a seamless experience.

 * Secure your spot and increase your chances of finding your dream diamond.

First-Ever Rockhounding Vending Machine:

 * Experience the thrill of discovering unique rocks and minerals anytime.

 * Find the perfect souvenir or gift for the rock hound in your life.

Expert Center Identification:

 * Bring your "centers" (concentrated gravel) back to the shop for expert identification.

 * Learn from Al, who has years of experience and knowledge.

Visit Them Today:

 * Conveniently located to the immediate left of the Town's Hardware Store, at the corner of Mauney and Washington.

 * Uncover the hidden treasures waiting for you at the Crater of Diamonds Corner 

Discover the thrill of rockhounding with Hidden Gem Rockhounding Services!

Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious beginner, we offer guided hunts, educational sessions, and unique experiences for all ages. Join us on an adventure to uncover fossils, crystals, and minerals in the most exciting locations.

Our latest rockhounding trip was nothing short of spectacular. We embarked on a journey that took us to several fascinating locations, each offering unique and exciting finds. Here's a glimpse into our adventure:

**Exploring Warsaw, IL: A Treasure Trove of Fossils and Crystals**

Our first stop was a mere 45-minute drive away, at a promising outcrop in Warsaw, IL. This site proved to be a goldmine for fossil enthusiasts. We uncovered an array of braccianoid fossil death beds and horn coral fossils, each piece telling a story of ancient marine life. But the real surprise was the discovery of geodes and a pocket of selenite crystals.Unlike the typical Utah dirty diamond or Oklahoma hourglass selenite formations, these selenite crystals were nestled in a cliff outcrop, clear and embedded in limestone. No digging was required, making the find even more thrilling. The clarity and beauty of these crystals were truly remarkable, adding a unique touch to our collection.

**A Detour to Missouri: Unexpected Finds**

Our journey then took us south towards the Arkansas diamond mine. However, an unexpected detour at a gas station in Missouri led to an exciting discovery. Hidden in a ditch, we stumbled upon a collection of gems that added an element of surprise to our trip. To be continued.... 

Welcome to the enchanting world of crystals, minerals, and gems! Whether you're a budding geologist, a jewelry enthusiast, or simply curious about the treasures beneath our feet, this guide will help you understand the basics of identifying these natural wonders.

 Understanding the necesity 

Of change 

• Crystals are solid materials whose atoms are arranged in highly ordered, repeating patterns extending in all three spatial dimensions.
• Minerals are naturally occurring inorganic substances with a definite chemical composition and a crystalline structure.
• Gems, or gemstones, are minerals or rocks that have been cut and polished for use in jewelry or as collectibles.

Identification Tips

1. **Color**: Often the first noticeable feature, but it can be misleading due to variations within the same mineral type.

2. **Hardness**: Use the Mohs scale to determine scratch resistance, ranging from talc (1) to diamond (10).

3. **Luster**: Observe how light reflects off the surface; it can be metallic, glassy, pearly, or dull.

4. **Streak**: Rub the mineral on a porcelain plate to observe the color of its powder.

5. **Cleavage and Fracture**: Look at how a mineral breaks. Cleavage is the tendency to break along flat surfaces, while fracture is more irregular.

6. **Density and Specific Gravity**: Heft the mineral in your hand to feel its weight relative to its size.

7. **Crystal Form**: Examine the geometric shape of the crystal.

Tools and Resources

- A **hand lens** or **magnifying glass** can help you see small details.

- **Field guides** and **identification charts** offer visual aids and detailed descriptions.

- **Apps** and **websites** provide interactive ways to learn and identify specimens.

- **Videos** can offer step-by-step guidance and expert insights.

Conclusion

Identifying crystals, minerals, and gems is a skill that improves with practice and patience. Don't be discouraged if you can't identify every specimen right away. Keep learning, exploring, and enjoying the beauty and diversity of Earth's natural artistry.

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Remember, this is just a starting point.  Happy hunting!

For more information, you might find these resources helpful:

- [American Museum of Natural History video on the differences between gems, minerals, crystals, and rocks](^1^)

- [Moonstone Mamas' tutorial on identifying common gems and minerals](^2^)

- [Rockhound Resource's guide with pictures on how to identify minerals](^3^)

- [Crystal Vaults' comprehensive encyclopedia on crystals](^4^)

- [My Crystals' article on crystal identification tools](^5^)

- [Contempo Crystals' identification chart for crystals and stones](^6^)

- [International Gem Society's guide to gem classification](^7^)