There are hundreds of mineral clubs and societies throughout the world. These groups help localize and personalize the mineral collector community, as they provide important resources for collectors and hobbyists. Aside from arranging trips to mines and deposits, clubs also organize and promote local shows and special events. The clubs also function to bring together people of similar interests, and they foster interaction and knowledge sharing among members.
Many mines and quarries, especially active ones, are off-limits to the public. Mine operators often prohibit individuals from collecting since it can distract operations. Even inactive quarries are often closed to the public for collecting, and many do not allow trespassers. Although some brave individuals will invariably illegally sneak in and collect in these quarries, they run the risk of being caught trespassing.
A mineral club often has some political clout and has the advantage of the power of the group. Mineral clubs try to obtain permission from mine owners to collect where an individual could not achieve access. They also work on promoting the natural sciences and stress community responsibility. Clubs will work on resolving insurance or safety issues with mine owners so that collecting will be allowed. They often arrange for the group to collect during times where the operations will not be interfered with.
