AY Honor Gem Fossicking Answer Key
Skill Level
1
Year
2025
Version
02.01.2026
Approval authority
Australian Union
1
Definition of Gem Fossicking:
Gem fossicking is the activity of searching for and collecting precious and semi-precious stones from their natural environment. It involves using simple tools to dig, sift, and examine soil and rock to find gems.
Brief History of Gem Fossicking:
Gem fossicking, the practice of searching for and collecting precious and semi-precious stones, has a rich and varied history that spans many cultures and centuries. The allure of gems has captivated humans since ancient times, with early civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans valuing these stones for their beauty, rarity, and supposed mystical properties.
Gems were often used in jewellery, religious artifacts, and as symbols of power and status. For example, the ancient Egyptians adorned their Pharaohs with elaborate jewellery made from lapis lazuli, turquoise, and carnelian, believing these stones had protective and healing powers.
In medieval Europe, gem fossicking became associated with alchemy and the quest for the philosopher’s stone, a legendary substance said to turn base metals into gold and grant immortality. During this period, gems were also believed to have various medicinal properties, and they were ground into powders and used in potions and remedies.
The fascination with gems continued into the Renaissance, where they were highly prized by royalty and the wealthy elite, leading to the establishment of gem-cutting and jewellery-making as respected crafts.
The history of gem fossicking in Australia is particularly notable, beginning with the gold rushes of the 19th century. The discovery of gold in New South Wales and Victoria in the 1850s attracted thousands of prospectors from around the world, leading to the establishment of mining towns and a booming economy.
Alongside gold, prospectors also discovered a wealth of other gems, including opals, sapphires, and diamonds. The opal fields of Lightning Ridge and Coober Pedy became famous for their high-quality opals, while the sapphire fields of Queensland attracted gem hunters seeking these vibrant blue stones.
Today, gem fossicking remains a popular hobby and recreational activity, attracting enthusiasts of all ages. Modern gem fossickers use a combination of traditional methods and modern tools to search for gems in rivers, streams, and designated fossicking areas.
The activity is not only a way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors but also an educational experience that teaches participants about geology, mineralogy, and the natural history of the earth. The thrill of discovering a beautiful gem and the satisfaction of adding it to a personal collection continue to inspire gem fossickers around the world.
Western Cultural Significance of Gem Fossicking:
In Western culture, gem fossicking is often associated with adventure and the thrill of discovery. It is seen as a way to connect with nature and explore the outdoors. Gems have also been valued for their beauty and rarity, making them prized possessions.
Excitement and Educational Value:
Searching for gems can be exciting because it combines the thrill of discovery with the challenge of identifying and collecting valuable stones. It also provides educational value by teaching participants about geology, mineralogy, and the natural environment.
2
- Small shovel or trowel
- Sieve or classifier
- Collection bags or containers
- Magnifying glass
- Field guide to gems
- Notebook and pencil
Small Shovel or Trowel:
A small shovel or trowel is used to dig into the soil and extract material that may contain gems. It is essential for breaking up the ground and collecting samples.
Sieve or Classifier:
A sieve or classifier is used to separate larger rocks and debris from smaller particles that may contain gems. It helps to sift through the material and isolate potential gems.
Collection Bags or Containers:
Collection bags or containers are used to store the gems and samples collected during fossicking. They keep the f inds organized and protected.
Magnifying Glass:
A magnifying glass is used to closely examine the collected material and identify small gems. It helps to see details that are not visible to the naked eye.
Field Guide to Gems:
A field guide to gems provides information on different types of gems, their characteristics, and how to identify them. It is a valuable resource for learning about the gems found in the area.
Notebook and Pencil:
A notebook and pencil are used to record observations, findings, and locations where gems are found. Keeping detailed notes helps to track progress and document the fossicking experience.
3
3a
3b
| COMMON GEMS IN AUSTRALIA |
| NEW SOUTH WALES |
| 1. OPAL | |
|---|---|
| Common Areas: | Lightning Ridge |
| Description: | Known for its vibrant play-of-colour, black opal is highly prized. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 5.5-6.5 amorphous structure, and displays a range of colours. |
| Identification Points: | Look for a dark body tone with bright, multi-coloured flashes. |
| 2. SAPPHIRE | |
| Common Areas: | Inverell, Glen Innes |
| Description: | Typically blue, but can be found in various colours. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 9, hexagonal crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep blue colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| 3. DIAMOND | |
| Common Areas: | Copeton, Bingara |
| Description: | The hardest known natural material, often used in jewellery. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 10, cubic crystal system, high refractive index. |
| Identification Points: | Exceptional hardness, brilliant sparkle, and high dispersion. |
| 4. TOPAZ | |
| Common Areas: | New England region |
| Description: | Usually colourless, but can be found in blue, yellow, and pink. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 8, orthorhombic crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| 5. AMETHYST | |
| Common Areas: | Emmaville |
| Description: | A purple variety of quartz. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 7, hexagonal crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep purple colour, often with zoning, and high clarity. |
| COMMON GEMS IN AUSTRALIA |
| QUEENSLAND |
| 1. OPAL | |
|---|---|
| Common Areas: | Winton, Quilpie |
| Description: | Known for its vibrant play-of-colour. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 5.5-6.5 amorphous structure, and displays a range of colours. |
| Identification Points: | Bright, multi-coloured flashes on a light or dark body tone. |
| 2. SAPPHIRE | |
| Common Areas: | Central Queensland Gemfields (e.g., Anakie, Rubyvale) |
| Description: | Known for its rich blue colour. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 9, hexagonal crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep blue colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| 3. TOPAZ | |
| Common Areas: | Mount Surprise |
| Description: | Typically colourless, but can be blue, yellow, or pink. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 8, orthorhombic crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| 4. CHRYSOPRASE | |
| Common Areas: | Marlborough |
| Description: | A green variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6-7, cryptocrystalline structure, waxy lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Bright apple-green colour, translucent to opaque. |
| 5. PERIDOT | |
| Common Areas: | Springsure |
| Description: | A green gemstone from the olivine group. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7, orthorhombic crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Olive-green colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| COMMON GEMS IN AUSTRALIA |
| VICTORIA |
| 1. ZIRCON | |
|---|---|
| Common Areas: | Harts Range |
| Description: | Often found in a range of colours, including red, yellow, and blue. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 7.5, tetragonal crystal system, adamantine lustre. |
| Identification Points: | High refractive index, strong lustre, and double refraction. |
| 2. GARNET | |
| Common Areas: | Beechworth |
| Description: | Typically red, but can be found in various colours. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7.5, cubic crystal system, vitreous to resinous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep red colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| 3. TOPAZ | |
| Common Areas: | Flinders Ranges |
| Description: | Usually colourless, but can be blue, yellow, or pink. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 8, orthorhombic crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| 4. AGATE | |
| Common Areas: | Yarra River |
| Description: | Banded variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Banded patterns, translucent to opaque. |
| 5. CHALCEDONY | |
| Common Areas: | Bendigo |
| Description: | A microcrystalline variety of quartz. |
| Characteristics: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Translucent to opaque, often with a waxy lustre. |
| COMMON GEMS IN AUSTRALIA |
| SOUTH AUSTRALIA |
| 1. OPAL | |
|---|---|
| Common Areas: | Coober Pedy |
| Description: | Known for its play-of-colour. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 5.5-6.5, amorphous structure, displays a range of colours. |
| Identification Points: | Bright, multi-coloured flashes on a light or dark body tone. |
| 2. GARNET | |
| Common Areas: | Flinders Ranges |
| Description: | Typically red, but can be found in various colours. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7.5, cubic crystal system, vitreous to resinous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep red colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| 3. AMETHYST | |
| Common Areas: | Olary Province |
| Description: | A purple variety of quartz. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 7, hexagonal crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep purple colour, often with zoning, and high clarity. |
| 4. JASPER | |
| Common Areas: | Mount Lofty Ranges |
| Description: | An opaque variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7, cryptocrystalline structure, waxy lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Opaque, often with unique patterns and colours.lustre. |
| 5. CHRYSOPRASE | |
| Common Areas: | Cowell |
| Description: | A green variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6-7, cryptocrystalline structure, waxy lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Bright apple-green colour, translucent to opaque. |
| COMMON GEMS IN AUSTRALIA |
| WESTERN AUSTRALIA |
| 1. DIAMOND | |
|---|---|
| Common Areas: | Argyle mine |
| Description: | The hardest known natural material, often used in jewellery. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 10, cubic crystal system, high refractive index. |
| Identification Points: | Exceptional hardness, brilliant sparkle, and high dispersion. |
| 4. AGATE | |
| Common Areas: | Geraldton, Shark Bay |
| Description: | Banded variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Banded patterns, translucent to opaque. |
| 3. AMETHYST | |
| Common Areas: | Nullagine |
| Description: | A purple variety of quartz. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 7, hexagonal crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep purple colour, often with zoning, and high clarity. |
| 4. GARNET | |
| Common Areas: | Harts Range |
| Description: | Typically red, but can be found in various colours. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7.5, cubic crystal system, vitreous to resinous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep red colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| 5. PERIDOT | |
| Common Areas: | Broome |
| Description: | A green gemstone from the olivine group. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7, orthorhombic crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Olive-green colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| COMMON GEMS IN AUSTRALIA |
| TASMANIA |
| 1. DIAMOND | |
|---|---|
| Common Areas: | Argyle mine |
| Description: | The hardest known natural material, often used in jewellery. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 10, cubic crystal system, high refractive index. |
| Identification Points: | Exceptional hardness, brilliant sparkle, and high dispersion. |
| 4. AGATE | |
| Common Areas: | Geraldton, Shark Bay |
| Description: | Banded variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Banded patterns, translucent to opaque. |
| 3. AMETHYST | |
| Common Areas: | Nullagine |
| Description: | A purple variety of quartz. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 7, hexagonal crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep purple colour, often with zoning, and high clarity. |
| 4. GARNET | |
| Common Areas: | Harts Range |
| Description: | Typically red, but can be found in various colours. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7.5, cubic crystal system, vitreous to resinous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep red colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| 5. PERIDOT | |
| Common Areas: | Broome |
| Description: | A green gemstone from the olivine group. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7, orthorhombic crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Olive-green colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| COMMON GEMS IN AUSTRALIA |
| NORTHERN TERRITORY |
| 1. GARNET | |
|---|---|
| Common Areas: | Harts Range |
| Description: | Typically red, but can be found in various colours. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7.5, cubic crystal system, vitreous to resinous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep red colour, high clarity, and strong lustre. |
| 2. ZIRCON | |
| Common Areas: | Mud Tank |
| Description: | Often found in a range of colours, including red, yellow, and blue. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 7.5, tetragonal crystal system, adamantine lustre. |
| Identification Points: | High refractive index, strong lustre, and double refraction. |
| 4. CHRYSOPRASE | |
| Common Areas: | Wave Hill |
| Description: | A green variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6-7, cryptocrystalline structure, waxy lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Bright apple-green colour, translucent to opaque. |
| 3. AMETHYST | |
| Common Areas: | Pine Creek |
| Description: | A purple variety of quartz. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 7, hexagonal crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Deep purple colour, often with zoning, and high clarity. |
| 5. TURQUOISE | |
| Common Areas: | Tennant Creek |
| Description: | A blue to green mineral. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 5-6, triclinic crystal system, waxy to sub vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Blue to green colour, often with a matrix of brown or black veins. |
| COMMON GEMS IN AUSTRALIA |
| AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY |
| 1. QUARTZ | |
|---|---|
| Common Areas: | Cotter River |
| Description: | Found in a variety of colours, including clear, smoky, and rose. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 7, hexagonal crystal system, vitreous lustre. |
| Identification Points: | High clarity, conchoidal fracture, and strong lustre. |
| 2. AGATE | |
| Common Areas: | Murrumbidgee River |
| Description: | Banded variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Banded patterns, translucent to opaque. |
| 3. JASPER | |
| Common Areas: | Mount Stromlo |
| Description: | An opaque variety of chalcedony. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 6.5-7, cryptocrystalline structure, waxy lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Opaque, often with unique patterns and colours.lustre. |
| 5. CHALCEDONY | |
| Common Areas: | Tidbinbilla |
| Description: | A microcrystalline variety of quartz. |
| Characteristics: | High clarity, distinct cleavage, and strong lustre. |
| Identification Points: | Translucent to opaque, often with a waxy lustre. |
| 1. OPAL | |
| Common Areas: | Canberra region |
| Description: | Known for its vibrant play-of-colour, black opal is highly prized. |
| Characteristics: | Hardness of 5.5-6.5 amorphous structure, and displays a range of colours. |
| Identification Points: | Bright, multi-coloured flashes on a light or dark body tone. |
4
1. Revelation 21:19-21
“The foundations of the city walls were decorated with every kind of precious stone. The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth ruby, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth turquoise, the eleventh jacinth, and the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass.”
Reflection: This passage describes the New Jerusalem, symbolizing the beauty and perfection of God’s eternal kingdom. The use of various gemstones signifies the diversity and richness of God’s creation. It teaches us about the value of spiritual wealth over material wealth and the ultimate reward of faithfulness.
2. Exodus 28:17-20
“Then mount four rows of precious stones on it. The first row shall be carnelian, chrysolite, and beryl; the second row shall be turquoise, lapis lazuli, and emerald; the third row shall be jacinth, agate, and amethyst; the fourth row shall be topaz, onyx, and jasper. Mount them in gold f iligree settings.”
Reflection: These verses describe the breastplate of the High Priest, adorned with twelve precious stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. This signifies the importance of each tribe and their unique role in God’s plan. It teaches us about the value of unity and the significance of each individual’s contribution to the community.
3. Proverbs 3:15
“She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.”
Reflection: This verse refers to wisdom, comparing it to precious gemstones. It emphasizes that wisdom is more valuable than any material possession. It teaches us to seek wisdom and understanding above all else, as they lead to a fulfilling and righteous life.
4. Isaiah 54:11-12
“Afflicted city, lashed by storms and not comforted, I will rebuild you with stones of turquoise, your foundations with lapis lazuli. I will make your battlements of rubies, your gates of sparkling jewels, and all your walls of precious stones.”
Reflection: God promises to restore and beautify Jerusalem with precious stones, symbolizing His care and the future glory of His people. It teaches us about God’s faithfulness and His ability to transform our lives, even in times of suffering and hardship.
5. 1 Corinthians 3:12-13
“If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person’s work.”
Reflection: Paul uses precious stones to illustrate the quality of one’s work in building upon the foundation of Jesus Christ. It teaches us about the importance of building our lives with enduring, valuable qualities such as faith, love, and integrity, which will stand the test of time.
6. Ezekiel 28:13
“You were in Eden, the garden of God; every precious stone adorned you: carnelian, chrysolite, and emerald, topaz, onyx, and jasper, lapis lazuli, turquoise, and beryl. Your settings and mountings were made of gold; on the day you were created they were prepared.”
Reflection: This verse describes the beauty and splendour of Eden, adorned with precious stones. It symbolizes the original perfection and beauty of God’s creation. It teaches us to appreciate the beauty of the natural world and to strive to maintain the purity and integrity of our own lives.
These verses highlight the beauty, value, and symbolic significance of gemstones in the Bible, teaching us important spiritual lessons about wisdom, unity, faithfulness, and the enduring quality of a life built on a strong foundation.
5
Cleaning Techniques:
- Opal: Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean opals. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Sapphire: Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
- Diamond: Use a mixture of ammonia and water to clean diamonds. Scrub gently with a soft brush.
- Topaz: Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
- Garnet: Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.
Preservation Methods:
- Store gems in individual soft cloth bags or padded containers to prevent scratches.
- Keep gems away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Handle gems with care to avoid damage.
6
Historical Uses:
- Jewellery: Gems have been used in jewellery for thousands of years, symbolizing wealth and status.
- Religious Artifacts: Gems were often used in religious artifacts and ceremonial objects.
Modern Uses:
- Jewellery: Gems continue to be popular in modern jewellery designs.
- Industry: Diamonds are used in cutting tools and abrasives due to their hardness.
- Collectibles: Many people collect gems as a hobby, appreciating their beauty and rarity.
Presentation Tips:
- Encourage participants to research and present on different aspects of gem uses.
- Facilitate a discussion on the findings and their significance.
7
Safety Measures:
- Wear appropriate clothing and protective gear, such as gloves, sun protection and sturdy shoes.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for hazards like sharp rocks, snakes and uneven terrain.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed.
Environmental Considerations:
- Follow the principles of “leave no trace” by minimising your impact on the environment.
- Avoid disturbing wildlife and natural habitats.
- Fill in any holes you dig and leave the area as you found it.
8
Planning the Excursion:
- Choose a safe and accessible location known for gem fossicking.
- Ensure participants have access to the necessary equipment.
- Brief participants on safety measures and the importance of respecting the environment.
Conducting the Fieldwork:
- Supervise the activity and provide guidance on how to search for gems.
- Encourage participants to document their findings, including the types of gems found and their locations.
- Discuss the experience and findings with the group after the excursion.
