Earlier in this century pegmatite rocks in Oxford, Androscoggin, and Sagadahoc Counties were extensively mined for feldspar and mica. Collectors have dug through the dump piles ever since, finding specimens for their collections. Mineral collecting has many positive aspects. It is a low-cost hobby that is ideal for people who want to combine outdoor recreation with the fun of a treasure hunt. The arranging and study of a well-labeled mineral collection can also be an enjoyable and educational activity throughout the year.
Some families plan their Maine vacations around a series of day trips to collecting sites.
Gold panning is a special type of mineral pursuit that has its own dedicated followers. Large gold nuggets found in the Swift River in 1992 by Valens St. Pierre of Auburn, Maine. Nugget on left is over an inch across and possibly the biggest ever found in Maine. Photo by Vandall King. During the last ten years, a number of Maine quarries have been re-opened by small teams of prospectors looking for marketable crystals and gemstock.