Wednesday, April 5, 2023

Public Gold Prospecting Sites on East Coast

Dahlonega, Georgia: The town of Dahlonega was the site of the first gold rush in the United States. There are several public gold panning locations in the area, including the Dahlonega Gold Museum State Historic Site and the Consolidated Gold Mine.

Cherokee County, North Carolina: There are several public gold panning locations in Cherokee County, including the Big Creek Gold Mine and the Davidson River Gold Mine.

Yancey County, North Carolina: The Toe River is a popular gold panning location in Yancey County.

Saluda County, South Carolina: The Saluda River is a popular gold panning location in Saluda County.

Pickens County, South Carolina: The Chattooga River is a popular gold panning location in Pickens County.

Georgia Gold Camp: The Georgia Gold Camp is a private gold panning location in Lumpkin County, Georgia. It is open to the public for a fee.

Oconee Gold Camp: The Oconee Gold Camp is a private gold panning location in Oconee County, South Carolina. It is open to the public for a fee.

Vein Mountain Camp: The Vein Mountain Camp is a private gold panning location in North Carolina. It is open to the public for a fee.


East Coast Gold and Prospecting Shows for 2023

Here is a list of gold and prospecting shows, events, and meetings for the East Coast United States:

Eastern States Prospectors Association Fall Show
The Eastern States Prospectors Association Fall Show is an annual event that brings together prospectors, miners, and treasure hunters from all over the East Coast. The show features a wide variety of exhibits, including gold panning, rockhounding, and jewelry making. There are also seminars and workshops on a variety of topics related to prospecting and mining.

The show is held at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. The next show will be held on October 14-16, 2023.

Northeast Prospectors Association Spring Show
The Northeast Prospectors Association Spring Show is an annual event that brings together prospectors, miners, and treasure hunters from all over the Northeast. The show features a wide variety of exhibits, including gold panning, rockhounding, and jewelry making. There are also seminars and workshops on a variety of topics related to prospecting and mining.

The show is held at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. The next show will be held on April 22-24, 2023.


New England Mineral & Gem Show
The New England Mineral & Gem Show is an annual event that brings together mineral collectors, rockhounds, and jewelry makers from all over New England. The show features a wide variety of exhibits, including minerals, fossils, and gemstones. There are also seminars and workshops on a variety of topics related to mineral collecting and jewelry making.

The show is held at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, Massachusetts. The next show will be held on October 21-23, 2023.

Sunday, April 2, 2023

Joys of Finding your own GOLD!

Gold prospecting is a hobby that has been enjoyed by people for centuries. It is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of nature, while also having the chance to find some valuable treasure.

There are many different ways to prospect for gold, but the most common method is to use a gold pan. Gold pans are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, and they can be found at most outdoor stores. To use a gold pan, simply fill it with water and sand, and then swirl it around in a circular motion. The gold will be heavier than the sand and will sink to the bottom of the pan. You can then use your fingers to pick out the gold.

If you are looking for a more challenging prospecting experience, you can try using a sluice box. Sluice boxes are larger than gold pans and can be used to process larger amounts of material. They are also more effective at finding small pieces of gold.

Gold prospecting can be a very rewarding hobby. Not only is it a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors, but it is also a chance to find some valuable treasure. If you are looking for a new hobby to try, I highly recommend gold prospecting.

Here are some of the joys of gold prospecting:

  • The thrill of the hunt. Gold prospecting is a lot like treasure hunting. You never know when you might find a nugget or flake of gold. The thrill of the hunt is what keeps people coming back for more.
  • The beauty of nature. Gold prospecting often takes place in remote and beautiful areas. You can spend your days exploring creeks and rivers, and enjoying the peace and quiet of nature.
  • The sense of accomplishment. When you finally find a piece of gold, it is a very satisfying feeling. It is a reminder that you have put in the hard work and dedication to find your treasure.
  • The camaraderie of other prospectors. Gold prospecting is a social activity. You will often meet other prospectors while you are out in the field. These people are often friendly and helpful, and they can share their knowledge and experience with you.

If you are looking for a new hobby that is both rewarding and enjoyable, I highly recommend gold prospecting. It is a great way to get outdoors, enjoy the beauty of nature, and have the chance to find some valuable treasure.

Thursday, March 30, 2023

Upcoming Gold Prospecting Shows

If you're a gold prospector, or just someone who's interested in learning more about the hobby, then you'll want to check out some of the upcoming gold prospecting shows. These shows are a great place to buy equipment, learn new techniques, and meet other prospectors.

Here are a few of the upcoming gold prospecting shows:

  • The Gold Rush Days Show will be held on February 25-26, 2023, at the Alameda County Fairgrounds in Pleasanton, California. This show features a wide variety of gold prospecting equipment, as well as educational seminars and demonstrations.
  • The Gold Prospectors Association of America Show will be held on March 11-12, 2023, at the Pomona Fairplex in Pomona, California. This show is one of the largest gold prospecting shows in the country, and it features a wide variety of equipment, as well as educational seminars and demonstrations.
  • The Gold & Gems Show will be held on March 25-26, 2023, at the Puyallup Fair & Event Center in Puyallup, Washington. This show features a wide variety of gold prospecting equipment, as well as educational seminars and demonstrations.

These are just a few of the upcoming gold prospecting shows. To find a show near you, visit the website of the Gold Prospectors Association of America.

Benefits of Attending a Gold Prospecting Show

There are many benefits to attending a gold prospecting show. Here are a few of the most important ones:

  • You can buy equipment. At a gold prospecting show, you can buy all the equipment you need to get started in gold prospecting. This includes things like pans, sluices, and detectors.
  • You can learn new techniques. At a gold prospecting show, you can learn new techniques from experts in the field. This can help you improve your chances of finding gold.
  • You can meet other prospectors. At a gold prospecting show, you can meet other prospectors from all over the country. This can help you learn about new places to prospect, and it can also help you find a prospecting partner.

If you're interested in gold prospecting, then you'll want to check out some of the upcoming gold prospecting shows. These shows are a great place to buy equipment, learn new techniques, and meet other prospectors.

Here is a list of upcoming shows on the East Coast:

March 30-31, 2023    Gold Prospectors Association of America Show, Fredericksburg Fairgrounds, Fredericksburg, Virginia

April 6-8, 2023    Gold & Gem Show, Raleigh Convention Center, Raleigh, North Carolina

April 27-29, 2023    Gold Prospectors Association of America Show Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, New Jersey


Thursday, February 16, 2023

Geology and Prospecting for Gold

Gold has been a valuable and highly sought-after metal for centuries, and has played an important role in shaping human history. From ancient civilizations to modern times, gold has been used for everything from currency to jewelry to technology. But where does this precious metal come from, and how do we find it? In this blog entry, we will explore the geology of gold and the process of prospecting for it, as well as some regions and locations around the world that are known for their rich gold deposits.

Geology of Gold

Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au and atomic number 79. It is a highly ductile and malleable metal, and is often found in pure form in nature. However, most of the gold that is mined today is found in small particles within ores that contain other minerals. These ores are often located in veins or deposits within the Earth's crust.

The formation of gold deposits is a complex process that can take millions of years. In general, gold deposits are formed by hydrothermal processes, which involve hot water circulating through rocks and minerals deep within the Earth's crust. This water can dissolve and transport gold, as well as other minerals, to areas where it can be deposited and concentrated.

Gold can also be found in alluvial deposits, which are formed by the erosion and transport of gold-rich rocks and minerals by rivers and streams. These deposits can be mined by panning or sluicing for gold in the sediment of the river or stream bed.

Prospecting for Gold

Prospecting for gold is the process of searching for gold deposits in the Earth's crust. It can be a challenging and time-consuming process, but can also be highly rewarding for those who are successful. There are several methods that can be used to prospect for gold, including:

  1. Geologic mapping: This involves studying the geology of an area to identify rocks and structures that are known to be associated with gold deposits. This can help to narrow down potential areas to prospect.

  2. Geochemical analysis: This involves collecting and analyzing rock and soil samples to determine the presence and concentration of gold and other minerals.

  3. Geophysical methods: This involves using instruments to measure variations in the Earth's magnetic field, electrical conductivity, or other physical properties to identify potential gold deposits.

  4. Prospecting with metal detectors: This involves using a metal detector to search for gold nuggets or particles in the ground.
Once a potential gold deposit has been identified, the next step is to conduct more detailed exploration to determine the size and grade of the deposit. This can involve drilling and sampling to collect more data, and can be a costly and time-consuming process.

Regions and Locations Rich in Gold

There are several regions and locations around the world that are known for their rich gold deposits. Some of the major gold producing regions are:

  1. Witwatersrand Basin, South Africa: The Witwatersrand Basin in South Africa is the largest gold deposit in the world and has been mined for over 100 years. It is estimated that the basin has produced over 2 billion ounces of gold.

  2. Carlin Trend, Nevada, USA: The Carlin Trend in Nevada is one of the most productive gold mining areas in the world. It is estimated that the area has produced over 70 million ounces of gold since the 1960s.

  3. Muruntau, Uzbekistan: The Muruntau mine in Uzbekistan is one of the largest open-pit gold mines in the world. It is estimated that the mine has produced over 50 million ounces of gold.

  4. Super Pit, Western Australia: The Super Pit in Western Australia is one of the largest open-pit gold mines in the world. It is estimated that the mine has produced over 21 million ounces of gold.

Resources and References

Here are some additional resources and references for those who are interested in learning more about the geology of gold and prospecting:

  • "Gold: Its Occurrence and Extraction" by T.K. Rose, published by the Royal Society of Chemistry. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the geology of gold and the different methods used to extract it.

  • "Introduction to Mineral Exploration" by Charles Moon, Michael Whateley, and Anthony Evans. This book covers the basic principles and techniques of mineral exploration, including prospecting for gold.

  • The United States Geological Survey (USGS) website has a wealth of information on the geology of gold and gold deposits around the world. You can find reports, maps, and data on their website at: https://www.usgs.gov/search?keywords=Gold+Resources

  • The Geological Society of America (GSA) also has a variety of resources on gold geology and prospecting on their website: https://rock.geosociety.org/Store/SearchResults.aspx?searchterm=Gold&searchoption=ALL

  • The Gold Prospectors Association of America (GPAA) is a membership-based organization that offers resources, training, and networking opportunities for gold prospectors. Their website can be found at: https://www.goldprospectors.org/
By utilizing these resources and references, those interested in the geology of gold and prospecting can gain a deeper understanding of the science and techniques involved, as well as the locations around the world that offer rich opportunities for exploration and discovery.


Wednesday, February 8, 2023

Essential Gold Prospecting Equipment

Gold prospecting is the process of searching for gold deposits in the earth using various tools and equipment. The following is a list of essential equipment needed for gold prospecting:

  • Panning kit - A panning kit is a must-have tool for gold prospecting. It consists of a pan, a sieve, and a scoop. The pan is used to wash soil and gravel to separate the gold from other minerals.

  • Metal detector - A metal detector is used to locate gold deposits below the surface of the earth. A good quality metal detector will make the process of gold prospecting much easier and more efficient.

  • Shovel and pick - A shovel and pick are used to dig up soil and rocks in search of gold deposits.

  • Classifier - A classifier is a device used to separate larger rocks and debris from soil and gravel. This helps to minimize the amount of material that needs to be washed in the pan.

  • Crevice tool - A crevice tool is a narrow, pointed tool used to probe crevices and cracks in rocks for gold deposits.

  • Dredge - A dredge is a powered underwater vacuum that is used to extract gold from rivers and streams.

  • Highbanker - A highbanker is a large sluice box that is used to wash soil and gravel in search of gold deposits.

  • Sluice box - A sluice box is a long, narrow box that is used to separate gold from soil and gravel. The material is washed through the sluice box and the gold is trapped in ridges or "riffles" along the bottom of the box.

In conclusion, these are the essential tools and equipment needed for gold prospecting. It is important to note that some states and countries may have regulations regarding the use of certain equipment, so it is important to research and understand the regulations in your area before starting your gold prospecting adventure.

Gold Prospecting Clubs on the East Coast of the United States

If you're an enthusiast of gold prospecting, the East Coast of the United States offers plenty of opportunities for you to explore and possibly strike gold. Joining a gold prospecting club is a great way to meet like-minded individuals and learn from their experiences. Here are some of the best gold prospecting clubs on the East Coast of the United States.

  • Eastern Gold Prospectors Association (EGPA) - This club serves the states of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The EGPA holds regular meetings, outings, and gold hunts, as well as provides educational programs for its members.

  • Southern Prospectors Association (SPA) - This club serves the states of Virginia, West Virginia, and North Carolina. The SPA organizes gold hunts, outings, and educational programs for its members, and also provides access to exclusive gold prospecting sites.

  • New England Prospectors Association (NEPA) - This club serves the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. The NEPA holds regular meetings, gold hunts, and outings, and also offers a variety of educational programs for its members.

  • Maryland Gold Prospectors Association (MGPA) - This club is based in Maryland and serves the surrounding states. The MGPA holds regular meetings, outings, and gold hunts, and also provides access to exclusive gold prospecting sites.

  • Georgia Gold Prospectors Association (GGPA) - This club serves the state of Georgia and holds regular meetings, gold hunts, and outings, as well as educational programs for its members.

By joining a gold prospecting club, you'll have access to experienced gold prospectors who can provide valuable advice, help you improve your skills, and share their knowledge of the best gold-bearing sites. Whether you're a seasoned gold prospector or just starting out, these clubs offer a great way to make the most of your gold prospecting experience.

Here are also some of the best national gold prospecting clubs in the United States:

  • The Gold Prospectors Association of America (GPAA)
  • The American Mining Rights Association (AMRA)
  • The Miners Xchange
  • The New 49'ers
  • The Gold Prospectors of Colorado

These organizations provide resources, support, and events for gold prospectors, as well as promoting responsible mining practices and protecting prospectors' rights.


East Coast Gold Prospecting

Gold prospecting on the East Coast of the United States has a rich history dating back to the late 1700s when gold was first discovered in North Carolina. The region has seen several gold rushes over the centuries, with each new discovery leading to increased interest and activity in gold prospecting. Today, the East Coast is still a popular area for recreational gold prospecting, with many opportunities for amateur and professional prospectors alike.

There are several states on the East Coast with a history of gold mining and prospecting. North Carolina was the first state to experience a gold rush in the United States, and it remains one of the most popular gold prospecting destinations on the East Coast. The state is home to several gold-rich rivers, including the Reed, Little Meadow, and South Mountain, which offer ample opportunities for recreational prospecting.

In Virginia, gold has been found in a number of rivers and streams, including the Rappahannock and James rivers. The state is also home to several historical gold mines, including the Monroe Mine, which was once one of the largest gold mines in the United States.

Other states on the East Coast with a history of gold prospecting include Georgia, Maryland, New York, Pennsylvania, and South Carolina. Each of these states has its own unique geology and history, and offers a range of opportunities for gold prospecting.

There are several techniques used in gold prospecting, including panning, sluicing, and metal detecting. Panning is the most basic and traditional method of gold prospecting, and involves washing soil and gravel in a pan to separate the gold from other minerals. Sluicing involves running water over soil and gravel to wash away lighter minerals, leaving the gold behind. Metal detecting involves using a metal detector to locate gold and other precious metals underground.

Gold prospecting on the East Coast can be done in a number of different environments, including rivers, streams, and historical gold mines. Prospectors should research the area they plan to prospect and obtain any necessary permits before beginning their search. They should also be familiar with local laws and regulations regarding gold prospecting, as well as the environmental impact of their activities.

In conclusion, gold prospecting on the East Coast of the United States has a rich history and continues to be a popular activity for recreational and professional prospectors. The region offers a range of opportunities for gold prospecting, including panning, sluicing, and metal detecting, and is home to several gold-rich rivers, streams, and historical gold mines. Prospectors should research the area they plan to prospect and obtain necessary permits, and be mindful of local laws and regulations, as well as the environmental impact of their activities.

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

Gold Prospecting in America: A Historical Overview

Gold has been a symbol of wealth and prosperity for centuries, and its discovery has played a significant role in shaping the history of many countries. In America, gold prospecting dates back to the early 1700s, when Spanish conquistadors first set foot on the continent in search of the precious metal. Over the next two centuries, gold was discovered in various parts of the country, leading to a series of gold rushes that had a profound impact on the American economy and society. In this report, we will explore the history of gold prospecting in America, from its early beginnings to the present day.

The first recorded discovery of gold in America was made by Spanish conquistadors in the late 1500s. However, it was not until the late 1700s that gold was found in significant quantities in the American colonies. In 1799, a large gold deposit was discovered in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, which marked the beginning of commercial gold mining in the United States. Over the next few decades, gold was discovered in various other parts of the country, including Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia.

The most significant gold rush in American history began in 1848, when gold was discovered in California. The discovery of gold in the state's Sierra Nevada Mountains set off a wave of migration that brought thousands of people to California in search of wealth and opportunity. This event, known as the California Gold Rush, had a profound impact on the American economy, as gold production in California rose from just a few thousand ounces in 1848 to over $81 million worth of gold in 1852. The gold rush also had a significant impact on the American West, as miners, merchants, and entrepreneurs flocked to California, helping to lay the foundation for the modern American West.

The California Gold Rush was just the beginning of a series of gold rushes that would take place throughout the American West over the next several decades. In the 1850s and 1860s, gold was discovered in several other western states, including Nevada, Colorado, and Montana. These discoveries led to further migration and economic growth in the West, and helped to spur the development of the American mining industry.

Over the next several decades, gold prospecting continued to play a major role in the American economy. The Klondike Gold Rush of the late 1890s, which took place in the Canadian Yukon, brought thousands of people to the region in search of gold, and helped to spur the development of the mining industry in the Pacific Northwest. The discovery of gold in Alaska in the early 1900s also had a significant impact on the American economy, and helped to spur the development of the mining industry in the state.

In the mid-20th century, gold prospecting in America declined as the country's focus shifted to other industries, such as manufacturing and technology. However, the rise of new technologies, such as the use of cyanide leaching in gold extraction, helped to revitalize the American mining industry in the late 20th century. Today, gold mining continues to play a significant role in the American economy, with the United States producing over 200 tons of gold each year.

In conclusion, gold prospecting has played a significant role in shaping the history of America. From the California Gold Rush of the mid-19th century to the modern-day mining industry, gold has helped to spur economic growth and development throughout the country. Despite the ups and downs of the gold market, the precious metal remains a symbol of wealth and prosperity, and continues to play a vital role in the American economy.


Sunday, January 22, 2023

Placer Gold Deposits

Placer gold deposits are concentrations of gold that have been washed and deposited by flowing water. They are typically found in streambeds, riverbanks, and other areas where water has moved through and eroded gold-bearing rock. Prospecting for placer gold involves searching for these deposits and evaluating their potential for mining.

To prospect for placer gold, one can start by researching the geology of the area to identify likely locations for gold deposits. This can include studying maps and aerial photographs, as well as taking soil samples to test for the presence of gold. Once a likely location has been identified, the next step is to search for physical indicators of gold, such as flakes or nuggets in streambeds or riverbanks.

Once a placer deposit has been identified, mining can begin. The most common method for mining placer gold is through panning, which involves washing soil and gravel in a pan to separate the gold from other materials. Other methods include sluicing, where water is used to wash soil and gravel through a sluice box, and dredging, where a dredge is used to suck up soil and gravel from the bottom of a river or stream. It is important to obtain the proper permits before beginning mining operations.

Saturday, January 21, 2023

Goldvein, Virginia Gold Mining History

Goldvein, Virginia is a small unincorporated community located in Fauquier County, Virginia. It is situated on the banks of the Rapidan River and is known for its rich history of gold mining in the local region.

The discovery of gold in the area dates back to the early 1700s when European settlers first arrived in the region. The first recorded gold discovery was made in 1742 by a group of French miners who stumbled upon a rich vein of gold while exploring the Rapidan River. The news of the discovery quickly spread, and soon prospectors from all over the region flocked to the area to try their luck at finding gold.

During the mid-1700s, gold mining in the region was primarily done by individual prospectors using simple tools such as pans and sluice boxes. However, as the demand for gold increased, larger mining companies began to move into the area, bringing with them more advanced equipment and techniques. This led to a significant increase in gold production, and the region quickly became one of the most important gold-producing areas in the country.

The peak of gold mining in the region occurred during the late 1800s, when the area was home to several large mines that employed hundreds of workers. These mines produced significant amounts of gold, and the town of Goldvein grew rapidly, becoming a hub for mining activity in the region.

However, by the early 1900s, gold production in the region began to decline as the easily accessible gold veins were depleted. Many of the mines in the area closed, and the population of Goldvein began to shrink. Today, the town is a shadow of its former self, and there is little evidence of its once-thriving mining industry.

Despite the decline in gold mining, the area still holds a rich history and is home to several historic sites and landmarks that commemorate the region's gold-mining heritage. These include the Goldvein Heritage Trail, which features several interpretive signs that tell the story of the area's gold-mining past, and the Goldvein Mining Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of gold mining in the region.

In conclusion, Goldvein, Virginia is a small community that played a significant role in the history of gold mining in the United States. The area's rich gold deposits attracted prospectors and mining companies from all over the country, leading to the development of a thriving mining industry that lasted for several decades. Today, the town serves as a reminder of the region's rich gold-mining heritage, and visitors can explore the area's historic sites and landmarks to learn more about the region's past.

Where to find gold on the East Coast of the United States

Some states on the East coast that are known for gold prospecting include:

Georgia: The state has a long history of gold mining, with gold being first discovered in 1828 in the Dahlonega area.

North Carolina: The state is home to the famous Reed Gold Mine, where the first gold nugget was discovered in the United States. The state has several other gold mines and panning areas, such as the Spruce Pine Mining District and the Franklin Mining District.

South Carolina: The state has a rich gold mining history, with gold first being discovered in 1827 in the Haile Gold Mine. Other notable gold mines include the Brewer Mine and the Ridgeway Mine.

Virginia: The state has a small but active gold prospecting community, with gold being found in several rivers and streams, such as the James River, the Rappahannock River, and the Maury River.

West Virginia: The state is known for its gold panning opportunities, with gold found in several rivers and streams, such as the Potomac River and the Monongahela River.

Maryland: The state has a small but active gold prospecting community, with gold found in several rivers and streams, such as the Potomac River and the Monocacy River.

Pennsylvania: The state has a long history of gold mining, with gold being first discovered in 1742 in the Yellow Creek area.

Note: It's important to check the laws and regulations of your area before prospecting for gold. Some areas may require a permit or have specific restrictions on where you can prospect.

How to build and use a sluice for Gold Prospecting

Building a sluice for gold prospecting involves the following steps:

  1. Gather materials: You will need wood, screws, nails, and mesh (such as hardware cloth or expanded metal) to build the sluice.
  2. Cut the wood: Cut the wood to the desired length for the sluice. The standard length is around 3 feet, but it can be longer or shorter depending on your preference.
  3. Assemble the frame: Use screws and nails to assemble the frame of the sluice. The frame should have a slight incline to allow the water to flow through it.
  4. Attach the mesh: Use screws to attach the mesh to the bottom of the sluice. This will act as a filter to trap the gold.
  5. Add riffles: Riffles are small ridges or barriers that are placed in the sluice to trap the gold. They can be made out of wood or plastic and are typically spaced about every 2 inches.

Using a sluice for gold prospecting involves the following steps:

  1. Find a good spot: Look for a spot where there is a natural flow of water, such as a stream or river. This will provide the necessary water to wash the material through the sluice.
  2. Dig up material: Dig up material from the stream bed or river bank and place it in the sluice.
  3. Add water: Use a hose or bucket to add water to the sluice. The water will wash the material through the sluice and trap the gold in the riffles.
  4. Check the riffles: After a few minutes, check the riffles for any gold that may have been trapped. Use a small brush or tweezers to remove any gold that you find.
  5. Repeat: Repeat the process as necessary to find as much gold as possible.

Note: It's important to check the laws and regulations of your area before prospecting for gold. Some areas may require a permit or have specific restrictions on where you can prospect.

Friday, January 20, 2023

Panning For Gold

Panning for gold is the process of separating gold from other materials using a pan. Here is a guide on how to pan for gold:

  1. Obtain a pan, which can be purchased at a store that sells prospecting equipment or online. A standard pan is usually around 15 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep.
  2. Find a suitable location to pan for gold. Look for areas where gold has been found in the past, such as near a stream or river.
  3. Scoop up some soil, gravel, and rocks from the ground using a shovel or other tool. Bring the material to a spot where you can pan it.
  4. Place the material in the pan and submerge it in water.
  5. Use a circular motion to wash the material in the pan. This will help break up any clumps and allow the heavier materials, such as gold, to sink to the bottom of the pan.
  6. Carefully pour off the lighter materials, such as soil and gravel, from the top of the pan. This can be done by tilting the pan and allowing the water to flow out.
  7. Continue to wash the remaining material in the pan, pouring off the lighter materials and keeping the heavier materials in the pan.
  8. Once you have panned down to mostly heavy materials, carefully check the bottom of the pan for any flakes or nuggets of gold.
  9. Repeat the process in other areas to increase your chances of finding gold.

It is worth mentioning that panning for gold can be very rewarding but it also requires a lot of patience and persistence. It is also important to research and obey any laws and regulations regarding gold panning in your area.




Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Gold Prospecting is Fun

Prospecting for gold is a fun and potentially profitable hobby. It involves searching for gold deposits in areas where gold has been previously found or where it is likely to be found. This guide will explain where and how to find gold, the equipment needed for prospecting, and some geological information about gold.

  • Research: Research is the key to finding gold. Look for areas where gold has been previously found, such as in the vicinity of old mines or along known gold-bearing rivers and streams. You can also research online to find information about gold-rich areas.
  • Equipment: Basic equipment needed for prospecting includes a gold pan, a shovel, and a pick. You may also want to invest in a metal detector, which can help you locate gold that is buried underground.
  • Finding gold: Once you have identified a likely spot for gold, you can begin panning for gold. Panning involves filling a pan with soil and water and then swirling the pan to separate the heavier gold particles from the lighter soil.
  • Geological information: Gold is a dense, heavy metal that is typically found in quartz veins or in alluvial deposits (river gravels). It is often associated with other minerals such as copper, silver, and lead. Gold can be found in a variety of colors, including yellow, white, and even black.
  • Summary: In summary, prospecting for gold is a fun hobby that can also be potentially profitable. It involves researching gold-rich areas, obtaining the necessary equipment, and using techniques such as panning to locate gold deposits. Keep in mind that gold can be found in a variety of geological settings, and is often associated with other minerals.

Public Gold Prospecting Sites on East Coast

Dahlonega, Georgia : The town of Dahlonega was the site of the first gold rush in the United States. There are several public gold panning l...