Community Guidelines and Standards
Everyone here shares the same improbable passion — rocks that took millions of years to form. The rules exist to keep the community worthy of the minerals.
Last updated
Three principles
01
Respect the people
Collectors here range from first specimen to fiftieth year. Welcome newcomers, answer questions generously, celebrate other people's finds, and keep disagreements about minerals — never about the person.
02
Be honest about the minerals
Describe specimens accurately. Disclose treatments, repairs, and restorations without being asked. Say “I don't know” rather than guessing — in this hobby, admitting uncertainty is expertise.
03
Keep it on the platform
Transactions and specimen conversations stay on EarthWonders. That's what makes payments secure, disputes resolvable, and the ownership record trustworthy — for everyone, on both sides.
In practice
Encouraged
- Helping with identification and care questions
- Sharing locality knowledge and collecting stories
- Constructive feedback, delivered kindly
- Welcoming first-time collectors
- Reporting problems so moderators can act
Not tolerated
- Harassment, bullying, or hate speech
- Misleading descriptions or hidden repairs
- Spam and off-topic self-promotion
- Sharing others' personal information
- Manipulating reviews or feedback
See something? Say something.
Every listing, profile, and message has a report option, and support reviews each one. Reporting isn't tattling — it's how a marketplace built on trust stays that way.
Common questions
What are the rules for participating in the EarthWonders community?
Treat all members with respect and courtesy, be honest and transparent about specimens (disclose any treatments, repairs, or modifications), keep all transactions on-platform, use the messaging system for specimen-related communications, and follow proper procedures for buying, selling, and trading.
What behaviors are prohibited on EarthWonders?
Harassment or bullying of other members, misleading or false specimen descriptions, spam or unsolicited promotions, sharing personal information inappropriately, fraudulent activities, hate speech or discriminatory content, and manipulation of reviews or ratings. Violations should be reported to platform moderators.
How can I positively contribute to the EarthWonders community?
Share geological knowledge and locality information when appropriate, help others identify minerals and understand their characteristics, give thoughtful and constructive feedback, welcome new collectors, celebrate others' finds, and participate in community events. Generous knowledge-sharing strengthens everyone.
How do I report a violation of community guidelines?
Use the reporting tools on listings, profiles, and messages, or contact EarthWonders support directly with screenshots and details. Reports are reviewed by moderators, and account action is taken against repeated or serious violations.