New Jersey traprock minerals have become my passion after a 1987 visit to the Upper New Street quarry in Paterson. Most mineral enthusiasts have seen numerous pieces from the famous locations of Tsumeb, Bisbee, Franklin and the like. However, few are aware of that which has, and continues to be found in New Jersey's intrusive diabase and extrusive basalt formations. Thus I have decided to share photos of many of the specimens which are/were in my New Jersey collection so others can view and enjoy them. I have also included photos of several of the quarries, concentrating on the stuctures in which the minerals have been deposited.

My collection is always in flux as I continue the search for something new or better, whether it be through digging, trade or purchase. I have not attempted to assemble a comprehensive suite from each locale; there are others who have been very successful in that task. My intention is to put together pieces which are undamaged and pleasing to the eye. In order to help achieve this goal, I have purchased the required tools and learned the proper techniques necessary to trim and clean the minerals I obtain.

I am flattered to say that in 2007 specimens from my Millington quarry suite were pictured in the May/June issue of the Mineralogical Record and in the summer issue of The Tilcon Times (trade magazine of Tilcon New York, Inc.). I have authored detailed articles on the Braen quarry in Haledon and the Fanwood quarry in Watchung which have been published in the November/December, 2009 and the March/April, 2010 issues of the Mineralogical Record.

From 1987 through 2011 I assembled a collection of colorful and aesthetic worldwide minerals that was sold in late 2011. My favorite piece was a Copper Queen Mine azurite from Bisbee, #443136. Other former specimens found on Mindat include: an Ojuela Mine adamite, #70260 and a Milpillas azurite, #379710.

For those wishing to contact me, I can be reached at fai122@aol.com or 732-548-1796.