Almost Trashed It

Chasing Desert Blooms and Unveiling Fluorescent Wonders

So, guess what? This spring is playing coy with the flowers, and only the bravest desert blooms are showing off their colors. Time for a desert adventure, don’t you think?

A Dry Spell in the Desert

The drought’s hitting harder than expected out there. But fear not—there are still a few scattered spots embracing spring hues. It’s a delightful sight, though you’ll find more floral treasures closer to the mountains, where the snow and water work their magic. Of course, getting there involves some serious 4-wheeling action.

- Wildflowers And A Few Rocks, Both Rare And Beautiful On This Plateau

You know me; I never pick wildflowers, but rocks? Well, that’s a different story. I found a couple of Oligocene treasures in a borrow pit beside the road. They might just have a touch of fluorescence in them, so into the trunk they went. Soon, they joined the collection in the garage with their rock buddies.

Fast forward a few days—I dug out the somewhat neglected short-wave lamp and gave it a power boost. It’s been a while since it saw the light of day; the new long-wave flashlight had stolen the spotlight. But hey, it was time to check on those “rejects” in the garage, and oh, am I glad I did!

The First Specimen

- Rock Specimen. 10 Inches. Natural, Long And Short Wave Light

No smoke and mirrors here—those colors and blue accents are the real deal. Stunning, right? Now, hold onto your hats because the second specimen is just as dazzling.

The Second Specimen

- Rock Specimen. 7 Inches. Under Natural, Long And Short Wave Light

These rocks are like a fluorescent cocktail, holding the essence of chalcedony from nearby and dropping hints of opal from 50 miles away. The strata housing these beauties might just be the motherlode of extraordinary fluorescent chalcedony in central Wyoming.

These aren’t just keepers; they’re top-shelf material. And you bet both lamps are getting their fair share of action, especially when I’m out prospecting in the formations that birthed these spectacular specimens.

Sending you all a burst of desert flower magic and fluorescent vibes. ✨

Cheers, D 🪨🔥