Prospecting tools are used in the search for valuable minerals or other geological materials. The two most common prospecting tools are a PAN and a PICKAXE. A PAN is a shallow, circular container with sloping sides that is used to separate gold or other heavy materials from lighter materials by gravity. A PICKAXE is a hand tool with a hard head attached to a handle, used for breaking up rocks and digging into the ground. Both of these tools are essential for prospecting and can help to uncover valuable resources.