Knowledge about stones and metals
In many districts, both precious stones and metals occur, so the miner should have a wide knowledge in order to make the best of his finds. He may commence by seeking black opal and finish by finding gold. Or he may be mining for emeralds and find diamonds. Prospectors are usually of a restless type; even if they are successful and strike lucky, news of a new field will cause them to desert their finds and hurry off to the the newly opened up area which, of course, may well prove worthless. Prospecting becomes a fever, and one seldom gives it up willingly. The free and easy life, the change of scene, the chance of making a fortune in one day, and perhaps even the intense physical hardships, cast a glamor over the life which is often irresistible.
The ease with which gold is recognized, its high international value and easy disposal, makes it the object of many a prospector, but diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, rubies, opals, and pearls all find easy buyers if the stones are of gem quality. There will be no difficulty in disposing of any of these minerals in the rough to local buyers, while there are many purchasers, dealers, lapidaries, and merchants in London, New York, Paris, and in other cities. It is more difficult to know what one should obtain for gem stones than for precious metals; the miner is often unfamiliar with current market values. Experience soon teaches.
Some knowledge regarding the methods of working and determination whether the mineral or metal is present, in sufficient quantity to make the deposit payable must be obtained. This more directly concerns the miner of gold and other metals, and he will have to sample the ore by panning tests or assay methods. If large scale mining is intended, many other points have to be considered. Available water power for electrical, mechanical, and metallurgical installations, the presence of fuel, labor, timber, rail or road communications, and other factors are of utmost importance.