The pursuit of gemstones in Australia and New Zealand represents a unique intersection of geological opportunity, historical exploration, and practical hobbyist culture. For decades, the definitive guide to this pursuit has been the seminal work edited by Bill Myatt, "How and Where to Find Gemstones in Australia & New Zealand." This publication stands as the most comprehensive resource available, bridging the gap between academic geology and the accessible needs of the enthusiast. Unlike generic field guides that merely list stones, Myatt’s work provides a roadmap for the active collector, detailing not only the "what" but the precise "where" and "when" to locate these geological treasures. The book's structure, published across multiple editions and formats, is designed to serve both the seasoned mineralogist and the complete beginner, offering a level of detail previously unseen in the literature of Australasian gem hunting.
The core value of this resource lies in its exhaustive coverage of localities. While many guides list generic regions, Myatt's compilation provides specific, actionable intelligence on mining sites, alluvial deposits, and rock formations across both nations. The text is divided into four primary sections, each serving a distinct purpose in the collector's journey. The first section establishes the geological context, explaining the formation processes that create the gemstones found in the region. This is not a superficial overview but a technical deep dive into the geology that underpins the distribution of diamonds, sapphires, opals, and tourmalines. The second section focuses on identification, providing technical criteria for distinguishing true gemstones from common minerals. The third section details the "when," addressing seasonal accessibility, weather conditions, and the best times to access remote mining areas. The final section, noted as containing information never before published, offers an encyclopedic list of localities, complete with a specialized map section designed specifically for field navigation.
Geographical Scope and Regional Distribution
Australia and New Zealand possess some of the most diverse and commercially significant gemstone deposits on the planet. The book edited by Bill Myatt systematically categorizes these deposits by region, providing a granular view of where specific stones can be found. This regional approach is critical because the geological history of Australia, characterized by ancient cratons and stable continental shelves, differs significantly from the volcanic and tectonically active landscape of New Zealand.
In Australia, the guide highlights the vast interior regions where alluvial mining is prevalent. The book details specific towns and remote outback locations known for opals, diamonds, and rubies. For instance, the text likely covers the famous opal fields of Lightning Ridge and Coober Pedy in South Australia, the diamond fields of the Northwest Territories, and the sapphire deposits in New South Wales. The "where" aspect is not merely a list of coordinates but includes practical advice on terrain, accessibility, and local regulations.
New Zealand presents a different geological profile. The book addresses the unique gemstones found in the North and South Islands, including the distinctive greenstones (pounamu) and various semi-precious stones found in alluvial gravels. The guide likely provides specific localities in the South Island where nephrite and jade can be found, as well as areas in the North Island known for other mineral treasures. The inclusion of a dedicated map section, designed specifically for this book, allows the reader to visualize these localities in relation to major transport routes and settlement centers, turning abstract geological data into a navigable field guide.
The synthesis of Australian and New Zealand data into a single volume is a unique contribution to gemological literature. By consolidating these two distinct geological zones, Myatt's work allows for a comparative study of gemstone formation and distribution across the Pacific region. This dual-region focus addresses the specific needs of collectors who may travel between the two countries or who are interested in the broader Australasian context.
Structural Analysis of the Field Guide
The architecture of the book is designed for progressive learning. The division into four main sections ensures that a reader moves logically from theory to practice. The first section, covering the "How," delves into the mechanics of gem hunting. This includes the tools required, the techniques for panning, sieving, and digging, and the safety protocols necessary for working in remote areas. It is a manual for the active prospector.
The second section focuses on identification. This portion is described as "necessarily technical in part," yet the editors have ensured that it remains accessible to the "average interested reader." It likely covers physical properties such as hardness, specific gravity, and optical characteristics that allow a collector to distinguish a genuine sapphire from a quartz crystal or a diamond from a glass imitation. The inclusion of a glossary at the end of this section further aids the novice, defining complex mineralogical terms without overwhelming the reader.
The third section addresses the temporal dimension: the "When." Finding gemstones is not a year-round activity in many parts of Australia and New Zealand. Seasonal factors, such as dry seasons for accessing dry creek beds or wet seasons for alluvial washing, play a crucial role in the success rate of a hunt. The book likely provides calendars or seasonal guides indicating the optimal times to visit specific localities, factoring in weather patterns and regional accessibility.
The fourth and perhaps most valuable section comprises information on gemstone and mineral localities that was "never before published." This suggests the inclusion of previously obscure or newly discovered sites, as well as a comprehensive list of known productive areas. The presence of a map section specifically designed for the book indicates a high level of customization, providing a visual aid that is not found in standard geological maps. This section serves as the ultimate reference for planning a prospecting trip.
Publication History and Edition Variance
The authority of this resource is bolstered by its publication history, which spans decades and multiple editions. The work first appeared in the late 1970s and early 1980s, with a notable edition published by Paul Hamlyn in 1979. This edition was a large paperback, featuring color photographic plates and black and white photographs, establishing a visual standard for the genre. The 1979 edition is often cited as the foundational text.
A subsequent and highly regarded edition was published in 1991 by Ure Smith Press. This hardcover version, bearing the ISBN 0725408375, represents a more mature and perhaps updated version of the text. The 1991 edition is frequently described as covering "all aspects of the gold and gemstone hobbies, as well as mineral collecting." This suggests an expansion of scope, potentially including gold prospecting alongside gemstone hunting, reflecting the broader interests of the Australian hobbyist.
The availability of the book has fluctuated over the years. Recent market data indicates that certain editions are frequently out of stock, driving up demand and prices among collectors. The 1991 hardcover, often found in "very good" condition with minor edge wear, has become a sought-after item for those seeking the definitive guide. The 1979 edition, while also rare, remains a key reference for the historical development of the hobby. The existence of multiple formats—hardback, paperback, and potentially a larger illustrated edition—demonstrates the publisher's commitment to making the material accessible to different types of users.
The variation in editions also reflects the evolving nature of the hobby. As new localities are discovered or mining techniques improve, the content is updated. The 1991 edition likely includes data that was not present in the 1979 version, reflecting the cumulative knowledge of Bill Myatt and his editorial team. This continuous refinement makes the book a living document in the context of mineral exploration history.
Practical Application for the Enthusiast
For the individual seeking to engage in the "gold and gemstone hobbies," this book serves as an operational manual. It bridges the gap between theoretical geology and the physical act of searching. The text emphasizes that the guide is suitable for the "seasoned enthusiast and mere beginner," indicating a tiered approach to knowledge delivery. Beginners are provided with the basics of identification and safety, while enthusiasts are given deep dives into specific localities and advanced prospecting techniques.
The practical advice extends to the logistics of the hunt. The inclusion of a map section "especially designed for this book" implies that the reader can use the book in the field. This is a significant differentiator from standard encyclopedias. The maps likely detail access roads, terrain types, and proximity to settlements, allowing for the planning of extended expeditions. The book also addresses the "how" of extraction, covering methods for separating gemstones from matrix, panning techniques, and the handling of raw materials.
Furthermore, the book's emphasis on "all aspects of the gold and gemstone hobbies" suggests a holistic view of mineral collecting. In Australia and New Zealand, the search for gemstones is often intertwined with gold prospecting. The guide likely clarifies the relationship between these two pursuits, noting that many gemstone deposits are associated with gold-bearing gravels. This cross-referencing of resources provides a comprehensive understanding of the region's mineral wealth.
Comparative Analysis of Editions
The evolution of the book can be analyzed through its various editions and formats. The 1979 Paul Hamlyn edition was a large paperback, focusing on the core content of identification and localities. The 1991 Ure Smith Press edition elevated the presentation to a hardcover format, potentially offering more robust binding and higher-quality illustrations for long-term durability.
The 1979 edition is noted for its color photographic plates, which would have been a significant advancement for the time, allowing for visual confirmation of stone characteristics. The 1991 edition, with its ISBN 0725408375, represents a later stage of development, likely incorporating updated maps and newly discovered sites. The condition of surviving copies varies, with many showing signs of heavy use, indicating their status as working field manuals rather than shelf decorations.
The market value of these editions fluctuates based on availability. The 1991 hardcover is often out of stock, commanding higher prices in the second-hand market. The 1979 edition, while also rare, is sometimes available in used condition. The variation in physical state—ranging from "very good" to "good" with minor wear—reflects the active use of these guides in the field.
Technical Identification and Glossary Integration
One of the book's strengths is its approach to technical identification. The text acknowledges that gemstone identification is "necessarily technical in part," yet it is written in a way that will not "faze the average interested reader." This balance is achieved through the strategic use of a glossary located at the end of the identification section.
This glossary defines the specialized terminology required to distinguish between different gem species and varieties. It covers concepts such as refractive index, specific gravity, and cleavage, translating complex geological data into practical diagnostic tools. By integrating this glossary, the book empowers the reader to perform initial field assessments without needing a laboratory.
The identification section likely provides step-by-step guides for distinguishing similar-looking stones. For example, it would explain how to differentiate between blue sapphire and blue quartz based on color saturation and hardness. This practical approach ensures that the reader can validate their finds in the field or upon returning to a base camp. The book serves as a bridge between amateur interest and professional geology, ensuring that hobbyists can make informed decisions about the value and authenticity of their finds.
The Role of Localities and Map Sections
The most unique feature of the Myatt guide is the inclusion of a map section "especially designed for this book." Unlike standard topographical maps, these custom maps likely highlight specific gemstone localities, access points, and mining zones. This section contains information "never before published," suggesting a treasure trove of specific coordinates and site descriptions that were previously unknown to the general public.
These maps are critical for navigation in the rugged terrain of Australia and New Zealand. They likely mark the locations of alluvial deposits, hard rock outcrops, and known mining claims. The combination of textual descriptions and visual maps allows for precise planning of expeditions. The "where" in the title is not a vague suggestion but a precise directive, enabling the reader to pinpoint exact spots where specific gems can be found.
The coverage of localities spans the entire geographical scope of both nations. In Australia, the maps likely detail the opal fields of the outback, the diamond fields of the north, and the sapphire regions of New South Wales. In New Zealand, the maps would indicate the greenstone locations in the South Island and other mineral-rich areas in the North. This comprehensive coverage ensures that no significant locality is omitted, making the book a complete atlas for the gemstone hunter.
The Cultural and Economic Impact
The publication of this guide has had a lasting impact on the mineral collecting community. By making detailed locality data available to the public, it has democratized access to gemstone hunting. Prior to this work, such information was often held by commercial miners or kept within small circles of experts. The book's release has likely spurred a new generation of hobbyists, leading to increased exploration and the discovery of new deposits.
The economic implications are also significant. By identifying viable mining sites, the guide supports local economies in remote areas of Australia and New Zealand. It provides the necessary information for individuals to start their own small-scale operations, contributing to the local economy through the sale of found stones. The guide's role in fostering "this most worthwhile hobby" underscores its importance as a tool for both personal enrichment and community development.
The book's enduring presence in the market, with editions remaining in circulation decades after publication, testifies to its utility. Collectors and enthusiasts continue to seek out the original copies, recognizing them as the authoritative source for Australasian gemstone hunting. The "unequalled value" mentioned in descriptions of the 1991 edition confirms its status as the gold standard for the hobby.
Conclusion
"How and Where to Find Gemstones in Australia and New Zealand," edited by Bill Myatt, remains the definitive authority on the subject. It transcends the typical field guide by offering a comprehensive synthesis of geology, identification, and specific locality data. The book's unique combination of custom maps, technical glossaries, and seasonal advice makes it an indispensable tool for anyone interested in the gemstone and gold hobbies.
The enduring legacy of the Myatt guide lies in its ability to transform the "average interested reader" into a competent explorer. By providing the "never before published" information on localities and the "how" and "when" of the hunt, it empowers individuals to explore the rich geological heritage of the Australasian continent. Whether in a hardcover edition from Ure Smith Press or a paperback from Paul Hamlyn, the core value remains constant: a detailed, actionable roadmap to the gemstone treasures hidden beneath the soil of Australia and New Zealand. For students of gemology, professional gemologists, and the casual collector, this work stands as the primary reference for understanding the distribution and extraction of precious stones in the region.