The state of South Carolina is a rich source for a wide variety of fossils, gemstones and minerals. The Appalachian Range is responsible for some of the better rockhounding locations. We have already documented the many areas where you can find gold in South Carolina. And we know that there are abundant fossils from ancient […]
gems and minerals
Where To Find Rubies – The Best Locations
There’s just something so fascinating about the glimmer of nature’s jewels, and amongst all of them, the ruby is surely one of the most prized! As one of the traditional cardinal gems, rubies have been heralded for their beauty and rarity even in ancient times. This precious stone is made from corundum, a mineral composed […]
My Favorite Rock Show in the World – Quartzsite Gem & Mineral Show
Gem Mining in Southern California – Public Dig Sites
California is one of the richest states in terms of mineral diversity. No surprise that it holds a great reputation where it concerns gold mining related activities, but not only that; it is also home to a number of gemstones mines. Most of these mines are located in the southern region of California. Let’s examine […]
The Fascinating Mineral Known as Desert Rose
The beautiful mineral commonly referred to as the “desert rose” can be found scattered across much of the world. In Africa, desert rose rock may be found in parts of Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Egypt, and Namibia. In Asia, it occurs naturally in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. In Europe, Spain contains deposits […]
Quartz and Diamond Mining in Arkansas
Arkansas is one of the places in the world where you can find both diamond and quartz crystals. In fact, Arkansas is the only state in the USA with a commercial diamond mine. However, it’s very different than most mines because the general public is allowed to keep the diamonds that they find! More on […]
Rockhounding in Washington State – Jade, Agates, Quartz and More!
Washington was a hotbed of volcanic activity in the Cascade Mountains not so long ago. While this is an interesting bit of geology for just about anyone, it has particular importance for rockhounds seeking gemstones and fossils. Volcanic activity quite often seeds an amazing amount of material which is good for collecting, cutting, and anything […]
Rockhounding Adventures in Utah – Topaz, Geodes, and More
Rockhounding in Pennsylvania – Quartz Crystals & Abundant Fossils!
If you’re going through Pennsylvania on your next trip and you’re minerally inclined, there’s a few places you might want to stop. The state is primarily known for the massive amounts of quartz crystal which is dredged from the clay every year, but you can also find petrified wood and a variety of interesting marine […]
Rockhounding in Ohio – Fossils and Flint
While Ohio might not be the best place to dig for gems and minerals, there’s a lot of diverse materials there that might interest most rockhounds. The primary draw of the state is flint that Native Americans used to make arrowheads, and the dedicated prospector might be able to find some great fossils as well […]
Rockhounding in New York – Herkimer Diamonds & Much More!
The state of New York holds a vast array of gemstones that should interest nearly any prospective rockhound. The most famous three minerals are Herkimer diamonds, tremolite, and garnets. All three of these stones have quite a bit of value in addition to being beautiful and their appearance can draw collectors and prospectors from far […]
Tennessee Minerals – Rockhounding for Agates, Calcite & Fluorite
Where to Dig for a variety of Tennessee Minerals Tennessee is home to a variety of fascinating minerals, all of which can make a worthy addition to a rockhounds collections. While the famous paint rock agate of the area is probably the primary draw, if you’re interested in collecting rocks in the state you’re bound […]
Lake Superior Agates – Rockhounding in Minnesota
Minnesota is home to an abundance of Lake Superior Agates Minnesota is home to some of the greatest agates around, particularly the Lake Superior variety. These iron stained, banded stones make beautiful jewelry and specimens, and they’re highly sought after to this day. There are also other types of agate spread throughout the state, making […]
Kentucky Minerals – Fluorite, Agates, Gems & Rocks
Rockhounds can find some spectacular Kentucky Minerals in this state One of the most surprising things you’ll find if you take a close look at the different areas in the US to go rockhounding is just how overlooked some states are. Kentucky finds itself in this position, because it is actually a hotbed of mineral […]