International Rock Day. Are you checking to make sure you read this right? Yup, you did. There is a day for practically everything, including rocks! International Rock Day, as you may have guessed by the name, is a day to celebrate rocks globally.
International Rock Day, not to be confused with World Rock Day, which lands on the same day, is all about rocks. Not much is known about this silly day, except that it’s celebrated on July 13 annually.
For this slideshow, we are diving into the benefits of owning a pet rock and other rock-related household projects. Did you ever own a pet rock? Would you?
The Different Types of Rocks
Before we dive into the creative ways you can use rocks, let’s learn a little bit more about them. Rocks generally fall into three categories: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.
Igneous rocks formed when hot lava from the center of the earth cools and solidifies. A few well-known types of igneous rocks include granite, basalt, obsidian, and pumice.
Sedimentary rocks, on the other hand, form from layers of earth like other rocks, sand, animals, and dead plants. A few examples include chalk, sandstone, shelly limestone, and shale.
Lastly is metamorphic rock, which forms when already formed rocks are subjected to high heat and pressure underground. This includes rocks like jadeite, marble, slate, and gneiss.
What Are Pet Rocks?
Pet rocks are exactly what they sound like. They are rocks that act as pets. These can be regular smooth rocks you find at a park or pretty shiny rocks you collect. Some people even draw faces on their pet rocks or add googly eyes.
Who Made Pet Rocks?
During the 1970s and 1980s, every kid wanted a pet rock! Gary Dahl created Pet Rocks in 1975, which made him a millionaire. It was a pet rock kit that included smooth rocks in a cardboard box with ventilation holes. The box included straw bedding, making it really feel like a pet carrier. Funny enough, he got this idea while drinking with his friends. What started as a funny joke became a quick trend!
The Benefits of Owning a Pet Rock
Are you looking for a new pet but want a quiet and cleaner one? Well, consider making a pet rock! Click through the slideshow for a few benefits that may convince you.
They Are Clean
Unless you really want to, you don’t have to take your pet rock a bath or clean up after them if they make a mess. You can’t say the same about dogs or cats!
You Never Hear Them Yell
Pet rocks are very quiet. You never hear them bark or whine.
They Are Great Listeners
If you ever want to rant or vent, you can rely on your pet rock. They are excellent listeners and will never tell you to shut up.
They Are Cheap
Unless you absolutely want to spend a whole lot of money on a carrier, home, or clothes – pet rocks are cheap. You don’t need to feed them or take them to the vet. There is no worry that they will swallow something they shouldn’t eat.
You Can Decorate Them
For creatives, you can decorate them as much as you want. You can use paint, glitter, or hot glue. Some people even give them clothes or paint them to look like animals or plants.
You Can Have More Than One
Pet rocks won’t fight for space, meaning you can own more than one at a time. This is perfect if you live in a small space but want to fill it up.
Pet Rocks Don’t Need Walks
For people who don’t like going outside, you don’t have to worry about giving your pet rock exercise. They don’t need regular walls. Of course, you can take them out if you want, and they fit in the palm of your hand or your pocket easily.
Stress-Free Vacations
With pet rocks, you also don’t have to worry about who will take care of them while you are on vacation. No pet sitters are needed, or crazy high pet deposit fees at hotels.
How Else Can You Celebrate International Rock Day?
Pet rocks are great, but they are just one way you can celebrate International Rock Day.
Rock Climbing
Another way to celebrate International Rock Day is to go rock climbing. It’s a popular sport and pastime for many. In the U.S. alone, there are about 7.7 million rock climbers. Are you one of them?
Rock Collecting
Did you have a rock collection growing up? It was one of the first collections for many people. Why not start it again?
Rock Gardening
Do you not have a green thumb but still dream of having a garden? Consider starting a rock garden. They are just as relaxing and have their own charm. Interestingly, rock gardens have been popular for a long time. They were especially popular in the 1930s.
The image featured at the top of this post is ©txking / Shutterstock.com.