Agate Hunter
Equipped with a 4×4, backpack and rock hammer, Tamara ventures into remote regions in search of one of nature’s most mysterious works of art. These landscapes are dry and rugged, often with punishing winds and scorching sun. Ideal regions have evidence of volcanic history; columnar basalts and welded tuffs are common. Although geodes are not formed directly from volcanic activity, volcanism is one of the essential processes that can create the right conditions for the formation of geodes.
Some expeditions into what looks like the right kind of landscape for geodes yield nothing, but all it takes is to find that first one. Where there is one, there are many. Ethical collecting is essential; care is taken to prevent the degradation of the land and only a small number of geodes are taken from any one location. The integrity and magic of each geode is only maintained if the integrity and magic of the landscape from where it came is also maintained.
Tamara Hartson
Producing terraForms has allowed Tamara to combine her photographic skills with her background in earth sciences. Her experience with paleontology and geology helps when exploring new regions in search of geodes. In addition to terraForms she has a wide portfolio of wildlife and travel photography. Her photos appear in numerous field guides, posters, and online magazines. She is also the author of several books and develops educational materials for elementary students.
