About Don Gerig

Bio and Background

Driven by a lifelong passion for geology and rockhounding adventures, Don founded RockSeeker.com to share his enthusiasm and knowledge about all aspects of the hobby.

Originally from Oregon, Don’s fascination with rocks, minerals, fossils and the stories they hold took hold at a very early age.

Now based in central Texas, he provides guides and educational resources to help fellow enthusiasts identify specimens and appreciate the natural world beneath their feet.

Rockhounding Experience and Contributions

Don Gerig has been an active contributor in the rockhounding community for over 15 years. He is a member of the Mineralogical Society of America (MSA), bringing their expertise in geology and minerals to his educational resources.

Don has contributed to and consulted with various other mineral clubs and societies including:

  • Tooele Gem and Mineral Society
  • Wyoming State Mineral and Gem Society
  • Keene Mineral Club
  • Rogue Gem and Geology Club
  • Mid-Hudson Valley Gem & Mineral Society

He has also lent his rock and mineral expertise through partnerships with media organizations like The History Channel and WPBS-TV, a PBS-affiliate station. Over the years, Don has helped organize and provide information to numerous educational rock and mineral shows.

In addition to his contributions to external societies, Don founded and runs his own successful online rock and mineral club, The Rock Seeker Rockhounding Club, which has grown to nearly 700 members who engage in discussion, education, and networking.

Life Outside of Rockhounding

When he’s not outdoors, you can find him hanging out with his family, indulging in Texas BBQ, or tinkering on his 1969 Ford truck. Though he keeps busy with work, home projects, and leisure, Don’s first love remains revealing the wonders hidden in every stone.

What’s your most prized specimen in your rock collection?

One day, I decided to explore the rivers in Central Texas due to the low water levels. I had heard stories of people discovering some fairly remarkable items, including dinosaur footprints, so I was excited to see what I might uncover.

That day I found quite a few different fossils, but the standout was an echinoid fossil (sea urchin). What makes this specimen particularly unique and fascinating are the worm-like structures on the surface of the echinoid. These are actually fossilized tube worms that attached themselves to the already fossilized sea urchin! So essentially, it’s a fossil on a fossil.

What’s one dream rockhounding destination you hope to visit someday?

I’ve always wanted to explore Wyoming, specifically, dig sites located in the Green River Formation. The formation is one of the best-known fossil deposits in the United States and I’d love to spend time out there hounding and finding world class fossils.

Articles By Don Gerig

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