I also agree on the sand. Buy dry and see if the
LFS will give you a few hand fulls from an established reef to see it. My
LFS has never had a problem doing this for me. Also, whn buying
LR, see if you can find some Florida or Carribean aquacultured
LR. It does not come from natural reefs and is loaded with life. I beleive liverockreef and tampabaysaltwater both sell it.