ETHICAL SOURCING
SciShow Rocks is dedicated to providing genuine rocks, minerals, and fossils, with permission from the land-owners and local-authorities, and extracted using fair labor practices.
WHY IS THIS SO IMPORTANT?
Geological and Paleontological research happens continuously. New discoveries are constantly being made, and while collectors can create excitement and interest, they can also disrupt scientists doing their work.
Careless collection causes the loss of valuable research. The Society of Vertebrate Paleontology's code of ethics states that scientifically significant vertebrate fossils must not be sold commercially.
EXPERT WORK DESERVES EXPERT PAY
Extracting rocks, minerals, and fossils is a labor intensive business, and everybody in the supply chain is compensated fairly. We will never accept samples from unknown sources or regions of conflict, or when our geologist can't verify the entire chain of custody. This level of scrutiny is expensive, but we believe that it's our most important work.
DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR TRILOBITE CAME FROM?
That cheap trilobite found online from overseas is not what you think it is. Fossil export from many countries is illegal. Due to lax enforcement and a lack of understanding of the laws, you can find them online pretty easily.
Even if you find one, though, your new trilobite may literally be made of mud. Many fossils sold on the international market are either broken and glued back together, or cast out of local muds, plasters, or clay. Lately, fakes are very well made and are hard to detect.
Your Rocks Box subscription includes a guarantee that your sample is genuine, and came from legitimate and legal sources.
These rocks, minerals, crystals, and fossils are generally considered safe to handle, but we recommend doing so with caution. For example:
- Do not ingest: Some rocks contain natural elements that may cause injury and/or irritation to humans and animals. Rocks and rock particles should never be ingested or placed in the mouth.
- Use in vented or open spaces: Rock dust can cause irritation when inhaled. Please ensure that when using rocks, especially rocks susceptible to crumbling resulting in rock dust, such use is kept to vented or open spaces.
- Wash hands after use: Some minerals can cause skin irritation with extended exposure. Avoid prolonged skin contact with minerals and wash your hands after handling.
- Use protective gear when necessary: If you’re handling samples that may produce dust or have sharp edges, wear gloves and eye protection.
- Store samples securely: Keep them in a cool, dry place to prevent deterioration and ensure they remain out of reach of children and pets.
- Supervise young rock hounds: If children are exploring the Rocks Box, ensure they do so under adult supervision to promote safe handling practices. Children should wash their hands after handling rocks.