In the heart of Wyoming, rockhounding has become not just a beloved hobby but a true art form. For over half a century, dedicated enthusiasts like Eddy and Ava Cole have perfected the craft of collecting and transforming raw rocks and fossils into museum-quality jewelry and art. From agates to jade, and even dinosaur bones, the Coles have made an indelible mark on the world of rockhounding, all while nurturing a passion for the geological wonders that Wyoming’s public lands have to offer.
The Allure of Wyoming’s Public Lands
Wyoming is a paradise for rock enthusiasts, offering over 18 million acres of public land managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). These vast expanses provide fertile ground for rockhounds, who are permitted to search for a range of geological treasures, from semi-precious gems to fossilized remains. Collectors hunt for everything from garnets, quartz, and jasper to rarer finds like Wyoming jade, opal, and even diamonds. The vastness of the landscape ensures that rockhounds have access to an abundance of materials for their work, though it’s the process of transforming these rough stones into something beautiful that truly captures the imagination.
“Collecting it is the fun part. Then the work comes in when you come home,” said Eddy Cole, a self-taught geologist and lifelong rockhound. “That’s why people are always trying to sell rocks that aren’t cut and polished—because of the time and work it takes.”
A Family Legacy in Rockhounding
For Eddy and Ava Cole, rockhounding is more than just a hobby—it’s a way of life. The couple has spent more than five decades combing the Wyoming landscape, collecting a remarkable array of fossils, gems, and rocks, many of which have since been turned into fine jewelry or exhibited in museums across the world. Their journey began long before the Coles settled in Thermopolis, where they would eventually open Ava’s Silver and Rock Shop.
The couple’s love for rockhounding took root early, and their self-taught exploration of geology led them to rare finds that many would consider treasures. One of their most notable discoveries is a horned dinosaur, which Ava had the honor of having named after her—Avaceratops lammersi—a remarkable achievement that cemented their place in Wyoming’s geological history. The fossil resides at the Upper Musselshell Museum in Montana, serving as a testament to their passion and commitment.
From Discovery to Mastery: The Art of Polishing Rocks
While rockhounding is often associated with the thrill of discovery, it is the meticulous work of transforming rough stones into polished art that defines the Cole’s legacy. Their store in Thermopolis serves as both a shop and a workshop, where customers can witness the transformation of raw minerals into intricate pieces of jewelry and stunning rock sculptures.
Eddy explains that the time and effort involved in turning a rough rock into something polished is what sets serious rockhounds apart. “For instance, when I polished the big jade out front, that took 60 hours of straight polishing to get that done,” he said. “You have to be willing to spend the time in order to make these rocks shine.”
This dedication to perfecting their craft is evident in every piece they create. Whether it’s the rich green hues of Wyoming jade or the gleaming facets of a polished agate, each item tells a story of patience, precision, and passion. The Coles have mastered the art of cutting, shaping, and polishing, ensuring that every piece not only sparkles but tells a story of its origins in Wyoming’s rugged landscapes.
Thermopolis: The Coles’ Rockhounding Hub
Thermopolis, a town known for its natural hot springs, became the perfect home base for the Coles. It was during a scouting trip in the area that Eddy discovered dinosaur bones, further sparking his enthusiasm for rockhounding. The couple made the decision to settle in Thermopolis, eventually acquiring mining claims in the region to expand their collection and business.
At their shop, Ava’s Silver and Rock Shop, the Coles continue to cater to the growing interest in rockhounding by selling their polished stones, unique fossils, and custom jewelry. Their store is a reflection of their dedication to the craft, with rocks and fossils from all over Wyoming on display for sale, each piece carrying with it the rich history of the state’s geological past.
Teaching the Next Generation of Rockhounds
Beyond their own collection and sales, Eddy and Ava are committed to passing on their knowledge to the next generation of rockhounds. The couple has long encouraged amateurs to visit their shop and bring in their own rock finds for identification. The Coles often invite visitors to test their knowledge with a fun challenge: “Stump the Geologist.” This hands-on experience allows newcomers to interact directly with the experts and learn more about the fascinating world of rockhounding.
“We love to share our knowledge and teach others about the amazing rocks and fossils that are unique to Wyoming,” Ava said. “Whether it’s a child fascinated by a piece of quartz or an adult with a passion for geology, we enjoy educating others and spreading the love of rockhounding.”
The Coles’ commitment to teaching and mentoring has made their store a destination for aspiring rockhounds, as well as seasoned collectors looking for guidance or new treasures to add to their own collections.
Rockhounding: More Than Just a Hobby
For many, rockhounding is more than just a pastime—it’s a passion, a way to connect with nature and history. It’s an opportunity to unearth the secrets of the earth and transform them into something beautiful. For Eddy and Ava Cole, it’s also a way to preserve Wyoming’s rich geological heritage and share it with the world.
The Coles’ dedication to their craft and their community has made them pillars of Wyoming’s rockhounding legacy. Their shop serves not only as a place to purchase unique rocks and jewelry but also as a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and craftsmanship.
“We’re not just selling rocks—we’re telling a story,” Eddy says, reflecting on the work that goes into each piece. “Every rock has a history, and it’s our job to bring that history to life.”
The Wyoming Legacy: Rocks, Gems, and Fossils
The Coles’ small rock shop in Thermopolis is more than just a retail space; it’s a window into the wonders of Wyoming’s geological landscape. Surrounded by stunning agates, jasper, and fossils, the couple has built a business that honors the land and its history while sharing it with the world. Through their craftsmanship and passion for rockhounding, they have created a legacy that will continue for generations to come.
Their work has gone beyond the simple collection of rocks, evolving into an art form that blends the natural beauty of the land with the skill and artistry of the jeweler’s craft. Whether they are polishing a piece of jade or uncovering a dinosaur bone, Eddy and Ava Cole have found their calling in Wyoming’s stones, and they are eager to share that passion with anyone who walks through their door.
For those who wish to see what rockhounding is truly about—where the earth’s hidden treasures are brought to life—the Coles’ shop is a must-visit destination in the heart of Wyoming.
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