In my article, Everything a geologist needs to be successful in the field, I covered many of the useful tools a geologist uses when doing field work. These include such basic items as rock hammers, compasses and clinometers, and hand-lenses. All of these are useful and practical gift items for a geologist. But, if the person you are buying for already has one or all of these items, what then? There are many accessory items you can purchase to make owning these items even better. A good holster for holding the rock hammer so it’s always handy when walking outcrops. Hand-lenses are generally small, and it can get time-consuming to always pull one from a field pack and then replace it. A hand-made necklace (something simple like leather or a shoelace) can be attached to a hand-lens so it can be worn around the neck. Other field tools like scales (length not weight), such as rulers or tape measures, or a sturdy backpack or daypack are also useful. For the serious geologist, you can check out the USGS web site to purchase geologic maps for areas of interest. Not only are maps useful for research; they do make wonderful wall hangings with all of the colors used on the map.
Maybe your geologist has the tools, but not the right gear. It’s important that you look the part of a geologist. Useful clothing might be cargo pants, ones with lots of pockets for carrying compasses, pens, notebooks, etc. Safari-type vests or jackets, with many pockets and pouches for holding rolls of film, pens, and other small items is another great gift idea. A good pair of hiking boots is a must have for any geologist, as we tend to wear them out rather quickly. Finally, top it off with a good hat to keep the sun off while walking the outcrops looking for fossils or the perfect rock specimen. Any hat will do, but I prefer a wide brim fedora-type hat. Not only does it keep the sun off, but I look like Indiana Jones when I wear it.
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