Most minerals worthy to collectors are found in deposits, or areas of rock where large amounts of certain minerals occur. Many deposits were worked on for extracting minerals for industrial, commercial, or research purposes. Deposits worked for the extraction of certain minerals or ores are known as mines. The most practical place to find mineral specimens is in mines.

Many dealers sell minerals and rough gemstones. Most urban centers have a number of such stores, as do many mines open to the public.

Mineral shows provide an efficient way to purchase minerals. They consist of organized exhibits that take place in large auditoriums, where dealers sell minerals from stands. Almost all populated areas have these shows, which may be annual or bi-annual.

Most urban areas also have mineralogical organizations and groups that can be beneficial to join. They offer excursions into mines that would otherwise be prohibited to individuals. Additionally, mineralogical organizations provide trading opportunities and meetings.

However minerals are acquired, they should be treated the same way. When bringing minerals home to your collection, they should be carefully wrapped up for protection. Two specimens should not be placed together. The exact locality of the mineral should be known, whether the mineral was found or purchased. When brought home, they should be cleaned if necessary, and stored in suitable conditions. (see Mineral Storage for more information). Care must be exercised not to break a mineral when cleaning it. Additionally, make sure the specimen is not water soluble and will not dissolve or crumble if cleaned with water.

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Purchasing Minerals | Finding Minerals | Mineral Value