Much Scottish blood flows through my veins. Thus, I’m unabashed in promoting the once and future independent nation of Scotland to anyone and everyone who will put up with my raves. The Scottish connection flows not only from my Fordyce grandmother and my wife’s Campbell roots (sincere and eternal apologies to Glencoe) but also from our one-year-old Scottish grandson who will serve as a pull to the Caledonian nation for some time to come.
These Scottish roots didn’t become personal until not so many years ago via our daughter, Hannah.
Hannah had moved to Edinburgh, Scotland, from Berlin, Germany, precipitating a trip by Nancy and me in May 2015. We had journeyed from California to bear witness at her wedding with Peter—but not before checking Google to discover a true-blue, bona fide rock shop located within walking distance from Hannah and Peter’s apartment. Thus, our first encounter with the little shop called Mr. Wood’s Fossils located at 5 Cowsgatehead in the Grassmarket of Old Town Edinburgh, the old “hanging district” for public executions but now a hip tourist destination.
Forget wedding flowers, caterers, bagpipers, kilts, and associated matrimonial arrangements! Within hours of arrival, bleary-eyed but rockhound-alert, Nancy and I were checking out shelves at Mr. Wood’s
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE BRIGHT SIDE OF VOLCANIC ROCK
As a mineral resource, volcanic rock is decidedly short on glamour.
The Other Copper Minerals
12 Lesser-known Collectible Species
MINERAL COLLECTING -AND ROCK & GEM
Evolving Together FOR 54 YEARS
Gemstone Trends
A Look Back at 2024 & What to Expect in 2025
How to Make a GEM BEAD NECKLACE
No Lapidary Experience Needed!
Framing Nature's Art
Faceting Rutilated Quartz for Beginners
BEDAZZLED BLUE SEAM AGATE
More than several centuries ago, mining was the profession most often seen as befitting of men.
ROCK & GEM FIELD GUIDE:
Spinel is a captivating gemstone with a rich history of being mistaken for gems like ruby and sapphire.
SNAKE SCALE DROP 1.5:1
This Faceting Focus is revisiting the briolette gemstone design because of its popularity with independent and hobby gemstone faceters.
STONE CHIC
How Earth-Inspired Decor Brings Comfort to our Home