James Magnuson

Rock hounding is more than a hobby for author Jim Magnuson, it’s a serious and rewarding avocation that helps him connect with nature. He has been an avid hunter and student of various gems, minerals and fossils since his childhood, when he first began to hunt for stones in his native state of Illinois. These experiences taught Jim the importance of persistence and willingness to follow the road less traveled for more unique or rare kinds of rocks. Jim enjoys sharing his passion through writing both creatively, and from a practically oriented process orientation. Because of Jim’s in-depth knowledge, he is frequently called upon to present to groups such as rock and mineral clubs, geological societies and educational institutions that focus on outdoor and environmental interests. In addition to Jim’s passion for prospecting and hunting he also likes to perform various lapidary arts with the stones that he finds, and he has a small business of making and selling custom polished stones and jewelry pieces. Finally, Jim enjoys creating photographic illustrations that are up close and personal for prospecting, hunting and lapidary work. Jim was a photographer for his high school and college newspapers and yearbooks where he focused on student activities that created perspectives on campus life. This experience has helped Jim capture unique and compelling photographic images for modern day gem and mineral prospecting.