Our January field trip to Quartzsite saw perfect weather in the high 60’s, with Snow Birds filling the open desert with their motor-homes.
Linda and I arrived on the 17th as did John and Beth Duggan. Our rock collecting spree began at Desert Gardens, where just about every rock, mineral and gem can be found, for a price. From slabs to cabs to large medium and small rock, Brazilian amethyst cathedrals and large quartz crystal formations. Next stop was the Q.I.A Pow-Wow where more rock and minerals plus jewelry, tools and rock cutting machinery can be had. More slabs and cabs. Indoor display cases were setup, some from dealers showing their wares and some for competition to be judged.
We four made a day of it, with a final stop at Tyson Wells, a huge flee market type fair. Clothing, garden art, tools, household items, beautiful rugs, walking sticks and essential oils, and this list barely begins to cover what is available. As well as the food courts and lots of people perusing the wares.
On Saturday we met at T-Rocks, in order for any members that made the trip from Flagstaff to meet us, sadly none showed up. Maybe next year, with a little more planning and information about where to find accommodations, we’ll have a better turnout.
All in all it was a fun trip, seeing lots of friends from California and Linda and I helping with the American Lands Access Assoc. desert cleanup on Sunday morning. Then, home. It was an fun and exhausting time, but I’m sure we will be back again next year!
Martin & Linda Dougherty
