As a young boy growing up in rural northern Illinois, Jim Magnuson spent much of his free time hunting for fossils that were abundant in the limestone quarries and in creek beds. He would often come home, pockets bulging with his latest finds. Jim still has the best fossils from his boyhood collection and occasionally brings them out for display. For many years after leaving home, Jim put his focus on developing his career as an Information Technology professional, first in Chicago, then Los Angeles, and eventually settling in central Minnesota. A trip to the shores of Lake Superior reignited an old flame. But because fossils are uncommon in northern and central Minnesota, Jim re-directed his focus to equally rare stones known as agates and set out to learn about and hunt for these beautiful gemstones. Now Jim spends much of his free time in gravel pits, farm fields, and other outdoor locales where there are accumulations of Lake Superior gravel. He loves to share his hobby with family and friends, and he enjoys his outings most with someone new to hunting Lakers that he can guide through the process of identifying agates in their true natural state.

The earth is full of many treasures. Jim enjoys the peaceful hobby of hunting, polishing and organizing for presentation, and giving away agates to those who find them interesting and beautiful.