Cody Casey
Mineral panning has allowed countless people to make their fortunes, and many of today’s cities grew from clusters of prospector’s tents. If you’re interested in trying your hand at panning for gold, diamonds, or other minerals, you'll need to find a good spot, get the right equipment, and learn the right technique.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Techniques | Wet panning, dry panning |
| Equipment | Gold pan, spade, seat, small plastic containers with lids, gloves, knee-high boots, knee pads, sniffer bottle, sieve |
| Location | Mineral-rich rivers and streams in the western and Appalachian states (including California and Alaska) |
| Legal requirements | Permit, license, permission from the property owner |
| Process | Agitate sediment in water, tilt the pan to pour out sediment, add water, repeat until only a few tablespoons of blackish sand remain, swirl the pan to spot gold flakes, use a sieve to pick through the bits |
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What You'll Learn
Know your local laws and safety hazards
Panning for minerals at home can be an enjoyable hobby, but it's important to be aware of the potential safety hazards and legal considerations involved. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you stay safe and compliant:
Know Your Local Laws
- Check with your local authorities to understand the regulations around mineral panning. Some areas may require permits or licenses, especially if you plan to use motorized equipment or pan on public land or someone else's property.
- Respect the rights and territories of Indigenous Peoples. In some places, mineral exploration may be prohibited on treaty settlement lands, Indian reservations, parks, ecological reserves, or protected areas.
- Understand the environmental impact of your activity. Avoid panning near streams and rivers during high-water flow, as it can disturb fish habitats and release fine sediments that can negatively impact aquatic life. Always fill in any holes you dig to prevent safety hazards for other users.
Safety Hazards
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you are panning outdoors. Know the location of current wildfire activity and fire bans in your area, and report any wildfires immediately.
- Use proper safety equipment, such as sturdy gloves, knee-high boots, and knee pads to protect yourself from injuries.
- Be cautious when using vehicles or machinery. Ensure proper maintenance and operate on level surfaces to prevent accidents or rollovers.
- Protect your respiratory health. When panning for minerals, you may be exposed to dust, debris, or hazardous substances like mercury or silica dust. Wear a dust mask or respirator to prevent inhalation of harmful particles.
- Be mindful of your physical well-being. Panning can be exhausting, so take breaks and stay hydrated. Be cautious when handling tools and equipment to avoid injuries.
Remember, regulations and safety hazards may vary depending on your location. Always prioritize your safety and comply with local laws to ensure a positive and enjoyable mineral panning experience.
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Choose the right equipment
Choosing the right equipment is essential for a successful mineral panning experience. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
First and foremost, you'll need a good pan. A variety of specialised gold pans are available for purchase, or you can make your own with a shallow, round pan lined with lightly crumpled aluminium foil. This type of pan is essential for both wet and dry panning techniques.
Next, consider your clothing and accessories. Sturdy gloves, such as neoprene or diving gloves, will protect your hands from the cold and wet conditions. Knee-high boots will keep your feet dry and offer some protection from snake bites in certain areas. Additionally, knee pads can provide comfort if you'll be kneeling for extended periods. A wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, breathable clothing can also make your outdoor experience more pleasant.
You'll also need tools for collecting and storing your findings. Small plastic containers with lids are ideal for securely holding any mineral fragments you find. A sniffer or sucker bottle can be used to carefully pick up tiny bits of minerals and transfer them into your containers. A small spade or hand shovel will come in handy for transferring river sediment into your pan.
Lastly, don't forget to bring a seat. The iconic image of prospectors squatting next to a creek may come to mind, but squatting by a riverbank can quickly become exhausting. A low seat or step stool will provide a more comfortable experience.
Remember, the specific equipment you'll need may vary depending on your location and conditions. For example, a prospector in Alaska in October will have different needs than one working in Texas in April. Always be prepared for varying weather conditions and choose equipment that suits your individual needs and circumstances.
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Pick the right spot
Picking the right spot is crucial when panning for minerals at home. Here are some factors to consider:
First, you need to find a mineral-rich body of water, such as a river or stream. The western and Appalachian states, including California and Alaska, are known for their mineral-rich rivers and streams. Within your chosen area, look for a spot where the water is deep enough to submerge your pan completely. This will ensure that you have enough water to work with and keep the water clear so you can see what you are doing.
Next, consider the water flow and current. You want a spot with enough water flow to keep the water clear, but not so strong that it becomes difficult to work the pan. The inside of bends in a stream is a good option, as water moves slower on the inside of a bend and faster on the outside. This means that the heavier minerals, such as gold, are more likely to settle in these areas. Look for places where the current hits and the eddies of water swirl, as minerals are more likely to settle in these areas.
Additionally, if you are panning on someone else's property or land that is not your own, be sure to get permission first. Some states and local laws may require a permit or license for mineral panning, even if you are working on your own property. Check the regulations in your area to ensure you are complying with all the necessary requirements.
Lastly, don't forget to consider your comfort and safety when choosing a spot. Panning for minerals can be exhausting, so having a low seat or stool to sit on can be helpful. Also, consider the weather conditions and dress appropriately, including sturdy gloves, knee-high boots, and knee pads if needed.
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Identify minerals
Mineral identification can be a complex process, but there are some simple techniques that can be used at home to help identify minerals. Here are some ways to identify minerals through observation and testing of their physical properties.
Colour
Colour is often the first thing we notice about a mineral, and while it is a useful indicator, it is rarely enough on its own to identify a mineral. This is because many minerals can be found in different colours. For example, hematite can be black, red, or even colourless, but it always leaves a red streak when tested (see below). There are three main groups of minerals identified on the basis of colour: idiochromatic ("self-coloured" due to composition), allochromatic ("other coloured" due to impurities or defects), and pseudochromatic ("false coloured" due to light diffraction).
Streak
The colour of a mineral in powdered form is called its "streak". This is often a more reliable way to identify a mineral than its surface colour. To identify a mineral's streak, rub it on a porcelain plate (streak plate) or similar object like a broken kitchen tile. Minerals with a Mohs hardness of over 7 will scratch the plate and not leave a streak. Hematite, for example, will leave a red-brown streak, while pyrite (fool's gold) will leave a black powder, and gold will leave a yellow/gold smear.
Crystal Form and Habit
Crystal form refers to the geometric shape and arrangement of crystal faces. Crystal habit describes the general form of a mineral, including visible layers, growth patterns, and other features. For example, a mineral with visible layers has a "banded habit". Over 20 terms describe mineral habits, and these can be very useful for identification.
Hardness
Hardness is a measure of a mineral's resistance to abrasion. The Mohs Hardness Scale is a low-tech but time-tested method of measuring hardness, ranking minerals on a scale of 1 (softest, e.g. talc) to 10 (hardest, e.g. diamond). You can determine a mineral's hardness by scratching it with an object of known hardness, like a fingernail or quartz, and observing whether it leaves a mark.
Cleavage
Cleavage refers to the way a mineral breaks along flat surfaces or planes. Mica, for example, has one cleavage plane, allowing it to break into flat sheets. Quartz, on the other hand, does not have any planes of weakness, so when it breaks, it fractures into curved surfaces.
Magnetism
Some minerals are magnetic and will attract a compass needle or a magnet. Magnetite, for example, has a strong pull, while chromite and pyrrhotite have a weaker attraction.
Taste
Taste can be used to identify evaporite minerals like halite (rock salt) and borax, which has a sweet and slightly alkaline taste. Simply touch the tip of your tongue to the mineral and spit it out.
Fizz
Some minerals will fizz when they come into contact with acid. This is called the "acid test" and can be performed using vinegar or dilute hydrochloric acid. Effervescent reactions are common among certain carbonate minerals.
Specific Gravity
Specific gravity refers to the relative weight of a mineral compared to an equal volume of water. For example, gold is 15-19.3 times heavier than water. You can estimate specific gravity by checking how heavy the mineral feels in your hand.
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Store your findings
When panning for minerals at home, you'll want to store your findings carefully to keep them safe and organised. Here are some tips to help you store your findings effectively:
Containers and Storage Solutions:
Use small plastic containers with lids to store your mineral findings. These containers will help keep your minerals secure and prevent loss. You can also utilise glass vials, small bottles, or jars for storage. Separate and organise your minerals by location found and size.
Protect from Light and Moisture:
Keep your mineral collection in a dry, climate-controlled space, protected from strong light. Sunlight can be destructive to many mineral specimens, causing them to turn dark or fade. Store your containers in a cabinet or drawer to protect them from direct sunlight and reduce the risk of damage.
Proper Handling and Transportation:
Always handle your minerals with care to avoid dropping or damaging them. When transporting your mineral findings, wrap each specimen individually and carefully to prevent any damage during travel. Ensure that they are well-separated and protected from moisture or humidity, especially if they are fragile or prone to decomposition under certain conditions.
Labelling and Record-Keeping:
Label your mineral findings clearly and create a record-keeping system. You can use numbers, field notes, or a database to keep track of your collection. This helps you identify and organise your minerals effectively, allowing you to build a valuable and well-documented collection over time.
Display and Storage Space:
If you choose to display your mineral collection, ensure that the specimens are adequately spaced and separated. Avoid stacking minerals directly on top of each other to prevent damage. Use storage cabinets or drawers with separators to keep your minerals organised and protected from dust and accidental damage.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a pan, preferably a gold pan, but you can also make your own with a shallow, round pan lined on the bottom with lightly crumpled aluminium foil. Other equipment includes a small spade or hand shovel, a seat, and a secure place to put your findings. A sieve can be set over a pan and will separate large items from smaller ones. Other accessories include a sniffer bottle, small plastic containers with lids, a larger bucket, sturdy gloves, knee-high boots, and knee pads.
First, find a good spot, preferably a mineral-rich river or stream. Then, fill your pan with gravel and submerge it in the water. Shake the pan vigorously several times, then switch to gentle circular motions. Gold is heavier than other minerals and materials in the river, so the gold will sink to the bottom of the pan. Tilt the pan towards you slightly and swirl the water and materials slowly in a circle. This allows you to check for larger nuggets or pieces of gold.
If you are not panning on your own property, you may need a permit. Some states require a permit even if you are working on your own property. Be sure to understand the local laws. Do not pan on federal land, treaty settlement lands, Indian reservations, parks, conservancies, ecological reserves, or protected areas.
