As part of our role working with geological collections, our expertise is often called upon to advise in the sale or purchase of geological specimens, whether this be to stock our museum shops with "pocket money" specimens or for more expensive "auction pieces". GCG Chairman and long standing committee member Matthew Parkes recently wrote a blog on the subject, which you can find here: https://geocollnews.wordpress.com/2018/11/13/contradictions-conundrums-and-lies/
Although GCG has no formal policy on the commercial trade of geological specimens, we would urge those doing so to ensure that their activities are conducted in an ethical manner. This might mean being sure that:
- Specimens are obtained from sustainable sources and in a legal fashion, depending on the collection location.
- Your supplier makes clear any alterations, modifications or enhancements that have been applied to the specimen.
- Those who collect the specimens are being rewarded fairly - this can be very important if your organisation has policies which relate to modern slavery practices in their supply chain.
- To ensure educational benefit, sufficient data is provided alongside the specimen - a specimen without data is just a pretty rock, with data it can inspire curiosity and wonder.
We appreciate this can be confusing to the non-specialist so we want to make it clear that we are here to help. If you have any questions, please e-mail us on
Finally, please note that GCG does not and will not endorse any specific dealers or suppliers and any claims made to the contrary are entirely false.