This list is open to anyone. It serves the global community of people who love rocks, minerals, gems, prospecting, clubs, events. Membership-by-subscription is only to prevent unrelated commercial announcements (SPAM). subscribers can receive messages in digest format, if they wish. A searchable archive of posts is available to members.

The rockhounds list provides a forum for the presentation and discussion of a diverse range of geologic topics. Historically, postings have included anecdotes, stories, and journals related to prospecting adventures/expeditions. Past membership has been 800+. Subscribers can expect to find 10-20 new posts in their mailbox each day. Members may post advertisements, solicitations, and trade offers to the list, providing that the message title begins with "AD: " (else the subscription or the advertiser will be revoked) These ads should be limited to one posting per week, per member.

Generally, announcements by members of auction items for sale, or of their commercial (website) offerings should be restricted to footers (signature lines) accompanying messages of more general content. Messages are expected to be plain-text (no HTML, no rich-text).