A mosaic of fossil ammonites.
Paleontology labs can be either really interesting or really dull. Part of what can make paleontology more interesting are various supplies and tools that help provide more details and insight into the rocks and fossils that you likely will examine during a lab. Most of these tools are not commonly available in most shops but can be ordered online through science suppliers.
Magnifying Loupe
A magnifying loupe is probably the most important tool in a paleontology lab. They often are called jeweler's loupes, and they appear as an ocular that folds up into a metal case. They are usually either 10x or 30x magnification, commonly threaded by a string and worn as a necklace. Users hold the loupe to the eye and then bring the fossil into focus. The loupe will show you abundant details not easily observed by the naked eye and help you understand tiny things by observing them.
Geology Notebook
While some paleontology classes will have only normal indoor labs, many paleontology classes take field trips to nearby or possibly distant destinations. A geologist field notebook is a special type of notebook is needed for excursions and also very useful for class. They tend to be bound in bright covers, which makes them easy to see if you misplace them on an excursion. Many also have waterproof pages so that the notes you take in class or outdoors won't be lost in the rain. Some even have basic geology information and angle tables in the front pages that are very useful when conducting paleontology in the field.
Mason's Hammer
You most likely will not need your own Mason's Hammer for indoor labs, but they're very important if you go on outdoor paleontology expeditions. Geologists commonly use Mason's Hammers because they are designed with a flat edge on one end of the hammer head that can be used to pry up rocks. If you decide to purchase a Mason's Hammer, make sure you get one that is full metal with a rubber handle; wooden hammers run the risk of breaking.
Diluted Hydrochloric Acid
Hydrochloric acid (HCl) is extremely dangerous and commonly not available. A lab instructor or lab technician should supply it in a diluted form.
Hydrochloric acid is very useful for identifying limestone, dolomite and other rocks both in an indoor lab and in the field. HCl will bubble and fizz when it touches a rock that contains carbonate. Rocks heavy in carbonates, such as limestone, will bubble more than low carbonate rocks, such as dolomite. Rocks without carbonates, such as black shale or igneous rocks, will not bubble at all. This helps identify what kind of rock you're examining, which is very important in paleontology.
Field Gear
For outdoor labs or field trips, essential gear includes boots, long pants and a hat. A good pair of hiking boots is important for long hikes through areas with rocks and plants. Long pants provide protection from plants (even some cacti), the sun and insects and softens scratches from rocks. A hat is essential protection from the sun and helps prevent heat stroke; it also provides some protection from rain and insects.
Always drink lots of water during an outdoor field trip to avoid dehydration.
Tags: Mason Hammer, protection from, very useful, will bubble, carbonates such, commonly available, field trips
