• Gold prospecting often take place in far off destinations.Black lake panning image by Yura Pavlyuchkov from Fotolia.com
  
  When settlers traveled across the country panning for gold, they probably didn't think that people would still be doing it today. Gold prospecting is a popular hobby in a number of states, including Ohio, North Carolina and California. Enthusiasts spend hours in the water, panning for gold and trying to get rich with a big find. Gold prospecting gifts include items that the individual needs for their hunt.
  
  

Display Case

• Display cases are small wooden boxes, with individual pockets placed on a wooden tray inside the box. These boxes often have a velvet or satin lining, which protects the gold pieces and also provides a clean background,for displaying the gold pieces. The boxes also feature a glass or Plexiglas lid, which lets others see their top pieces. The boxes hold multiple gold nuggets and let the prospector display his most treasured pieces.
  
  

Clothing

• Gold prospectors need certain clothing to protect themselves on the water, including brimmed hats that offer extra protection from the sun. Pith helmets are stronger and have a hard interior that protects the wearer's head from falling rocks or other debris. Gold prospecting T-shirts and sweatshirts often have humorous or funny slogans on the front.
  
  

Tools

• Tools are an essential part of prospecting for gold. A basic kit includes plastic bowls for sifting through sand and debris in the water, with small holes in the bottom that let sand out but keep the gold nuggets and other gems inside. A magnifying glass is another idea because it lets the prospector get a closer look at smaller items found in the water. Prospectors who pan for gold more frequently, also need a scale for weighing their finds. You may even want to consider giving a GPS system, which lets prospectors locate hard-to-find areas and get help if they get lost.
  
  

Books and Maps

• Gold prospecting gift ideas also include books and maps. Look for books that detail the history of the Gold Rush or local history books that focus on finds made in the prospector's area. Field guides on identifying certain gems and types of metal are also available and let novice prospectors learn more about valuable items. You can also find map books that detail popular and less popular locations for gold panning.