Screening for gems involves using classifiers to effectively separate valuable stones from dirt and debris. Classifiers are mesh sieves with varying sizes of openings that allow smaller, unwanted materials like sand and soil to pass through, while retaining larger particles, including potential gems. The process typically starts by placing a handful of rough material onto the classifier and shaking it vigorously to remove finer dirt particles. Afterward, what’s left is carefully inspected to identify and extract any gemstones. Multiple screens with different mesh sizes can be used in sequence to refine the sorting process further, ensuring a thorough separation of gems from waste. This method is simple yet efficient, making it a popular choice for gem hunters in the field.

Best method for screening material from mine run ore is using stackable screens. We recommend using at least ½” over a ¼” over an 1/8” screen for the final. You can go lower, but please go to at least a 1/8” screen. You can get these stackable screens which fit over a common 5 gallon bucket online on Amazon or Ebay.

You can also consider doing wet screening. I recommend getting a tub and put in a small amount of water. It is good to wet screen after dry screening to find all the gems.

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