[Rockhounds] mineral trades

[edwardjwagner at bellsouth.net]

dear List:
I have been trading for a few years now, with list and non list members. The exchanges have been mutually beneficial, for the most part, with the exception of one or two persons who have not sent me anything back(!!!), which is rather discouraging, and the subsequent subject of very uncharitable thoughts. However, the exchanges have been on the basis of weight for weight, and comparable quality for comparable quality. Axel Emmermann and I did an Outstanding exchange, whereby both of us were extremely satisfied (if you do not mind my speaking for you, Alex.)  The point is that the idea is to not just get rid of a bunch of yard junk, or to foist off some  potential driveway cover  onto someone else's driveway, but to consider a fair trade. I am personally in the WNC mining district, where within one hundred miles of my residence are many mine dumps and National Forest sites open. Since we do not have the BLM regulations that is present in the western part of the country, small collecting is allowed. However, I would not send anyone a box of shattered beryl or feldspar, on the basis of  their being inacessible to Europeans, for example. I would send good samples, or if possible, whatever is requested. I have found, for the most part, fellow collectors respect the degree of quality that they themselves would like to have.    The next point is shipping: Here in the US, one can send a Flat Rate Box (the size has diminished) for around $20.00. To Europe, it is $27.00 for up to 20 lbs, and International is around $47.00, I beleive. However, rates are going up. When Axel and I exchanged minerals, I sent around 60 lbs, which cost Axel the equivalent in shipping for 20 kgs. So, for the cost. lets not send low level pieces.   By the way, I'm open to any suggestions as to trade. Please contact me at my e-mail address. Thanks, Ed Wagner

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