Tips for Suiseki Collectors Look for hard (5-7 on the Mohs scale) smoothly weathered stones in darker shades of black, gray, green, brown or mixed colors. Darker stones with white mineral inclusions resembling snow, mountain streams, or waterfalls are especially prized. Avoid freshly-broken, sharp-edged surfaces, unsightly cracks, soft, coarse-grained types of mineral material and stones which are primarily light in color. When collecting along river and streams, concentrate your efforts in areas neither too close to the origin nor too far down stream. Downstream stones usually are "overworked" and featureless while those too close to the source often lack sufficient surface wear and patina. Also look in areas along sides of streams and rivers. Hard material stones with a nice patina can be deposited on banks and in sand pockets. Since you can't inspect every one of those half-buried river-stones you will see on collecting trips, look instead for "keeper" clues. A glimpse of excellent color, fine surface patina, or some recognizable element of a familiar suiseki shape could be all the hints as to what lies below. Turn over or dig out such promising specimens for closer examination.Use a pry bar, being careful not to leave tool marks on the stone. Remove any loose residue to improve exposure of the stone. Seldom is a high quality piece found with a natural flat base. Study even, oversized prospects from all sides with a baseline "leveling cut" in mind. One end or another could turn out to be a keeper. Often stones that you do bring home are disappointments upon closer inspection. Give them another look after a few months go by. You might be surprised what a difference in perspective can sometimes make. If they are still less than desirable use them in your landscaping or take them back to the creek. To assist you in recognizing those stones you are hunting, be familiar with popular classifications to help you find stones. When collecting in rivers or creeks use felt-bottom shoes & waders. They are much safer for walking in water. Always take a backpack, water and energy food. If in deep water during summer and fall always wear fast drying shorts and a tee shirt. Also a fishing vest with many pockets comes in handy when hiking for carrying out smaller stones.