In North Carolina, quartz is one of the most common minerals. Quartz is a crystal made of silicon and oxygen, and it can be found in many forms, including clear, milky, rose, and smoky quartz.
These crystals are most often found in the western part of the state, where the geology makes it easy for them to form. The beauty of quartz and the thrill of finding these natural treasures make it popular in the area.
Explore the world of quartz in the state with our in-depth guide. We tell you where to look, what tools you might need, and how to tell the difference between the different types of quartz!
What Is North Carolina Quartz Anyway?
Quartz is a common mineral known for being very hard and clear. It is made up of silicon and oxygen, two of Earth’s most common elements.
It can be pink, white, or even black, but its clear, colorless form is what it’s best known for. Quartz is often used in jewelry because it’s so beautiful and strong.
Quartz is also fascinating because it can make electricity when pressure is put on it. This is called piezoelectricity, and it makes quartz useful in electronics like watches and radios.
We wrote this piece to make your search easier by helping you identify what quartz looks like.
One of the most common crystals in the world, quartz, can be found everywhere, from beaches and rivers to mountains. It usually forms in igneous rocks, like granite, and metamorphic rocks, like schist.
Because it does not break down easily, quartz often ends up as sand on beaches and in rivers. Miners also find big quartz crystals in the cracks of rocks, where they grow into beautiful rock crystals.
Quartz is highly valued for its beauty and is often collected or used in jewelry.
The Types Of Quartz Found In North Carolina
North Carolina’s quartz comes in various colors, shapes, and names that reflect the area’s varying geology. Here are the different kinds of quartz that are hidden below the state’s surface:
- Clear quartz
- Milky quartz
- Rose quartz
- Smoky quartz
- The deep experience and understanding of our team about the area
- Recommendations from local groups and clubs
- How easy it is to get the a particular location
- Safety and potential hazards when collecting
- Weighing private and public locations
- The ability for both experienced and novice mineral enthusiasts to find great samples
With these factors in mind we’ve been able to put together a fantastic list that just about anyone can use!
The Best Places To Find Quartz In North Carolina
We will start by listing our top spots in the state to look for quartz. There are many great places to mine for gems in North Carolina, but only a few are good for finding quartz specimens. Some places are not as well-known, but they often have great chances to search.
Always Confirm Access and Collection Rules!
Before heading out to any of the locations on our list you need to confirm access requirements and collection rules for both public and private locations directly with the location. We haven’t personally verified every location and the access requirements and collection rules often change without notice.
Many of the locations we mention will not allow collecting but are still great places for those who love to find beautiful rocks and minerals in the wild without keeping them. We also can’t guarantee you will find anything in these locations since they are constantly changing.
Always get updated information directly from the source ahead of time to ensure responsible rockhounding. If you want even more current options it’s always a good idea to contact local rock and mineral clubs and groups
Beaverdam Creek
A favorite location for geology buffs seeking quartz, Beaverdam Creek flows through mineral-rich areas perfect for nature lovers and mineral collectors.
The region’s geology is distinctive due to its combination of igneous and metamorphic rocks, known for containing quartz crystals.
In particular, the creek’s surroundings have a history of volcanic activity and high-pressure environments, which are conducive to the formation of quartz.
Depending on the minerals present during its creation, the quartz found here can range in hue from clear to milky white, and occasionally even in tints of pink or red.
Where we found quartz at Beaverdam Creek
Quartz crystals are easier to find because the creek’s natural processes wear away the rocks around them over time, revealing hidden quartz deposits. Because of this, you can often find quartz crystals along the creek’s edges or in the shallow water.
The tools every geode hunter will need
When you're out looking for geodes having the right tools for the job is very important. You don't need a lot for most trips but there are a handful that are critical and will make your life a lot easier.
We get asked a lot about the equipment we use. Over the years we've found a handful of tools that we recommend to both new and experienced geode hunters which we outline in great detail in our complete rockhounding tools and kit guide. These are quality options that also happen to be relatively inexpensive.
Below are the basic tools that make your life so much easier and save you a ton of time. Check out the full guide to see everything we recommend bringing. One quick note, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases but we try very hard to only recommend gear we would use ourselves and often recommend brands you can't find on Amazon.
At a minimum you should have:
1 - Sturdy rock hammer: The Estwing Rock Pick is our standard
2 - Rugged chisels: Try Kendo' 3-piece Chisel Set
3 - Compact shovel: The Koleiya 28-inch shovel works well
4 - Rock screen pan: The Wazakura Soil Sieve Set fits the bill
5 - Eye protection: DeWalt Safety Glasses are cheap and comfortable
6 - Head protection: Malta's Safety Helmet has been our go-to
7 - Jewelers lens with at least 20x magnification: Jarlink's Jewelers Loop is perfect
The geode-finding books that we use most
There are also a few books that have been extremely helpful in the search for gems. These books have great recommendations and tips:
National Audubon Society Field Guide to Rocks and Minerals: North America
Southeast Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Southeastern Quadrant
We provide links to find these tools on Amazon but some can also be found at your local hardware stores. For more recommendations check out the link to our full tool guide above.
Cape Fear River Formation
People who like rocks and minerals, especially quartz, will enjoy the Cape Fear River Formation. It’s part of the state’s geological landscape and is a great place to find different kinds of quartz.
The formation is made up of layers of sedimentary rocks that were formed millions of years ago, such as sandstone and shale. Over time, natural forces like water and wind have shaped these layers, revealing hidden quartz.
Quartz is found here because the formation is a good place for it to grow. Igneous and metamorphic rocks in and around the formation show that the conditions were good for quartz crystals to form.
Where we found quartz at Cape Fear River Formation
You can find clear, milky, and even colored quartz, each type offering a glimpse into the area’s geological history. You can find these crystals in the layers of rocks or just lying around in the ground.
Crowders Mountain
Crowder’s Mountain is a great place for rock lovers, especially those looking for quartz. The mountain is part of the ancient King’s Mountain Range, with a lot of geological history.
The rocks on the mountain are mostly felsic igneous and metamorphic rocks, known for having quartz.
These rocks have been exposed to many natural processes over millions of years, making Crowder’s Mountain a prime place to find quartz.
Along with being important for geology, Crowder’s Mountain is also a great place to enjoy nature and do many outdoor activities.
Hikers, climbers, and people who love being outside are drawn to its trails and rock formations, making looking for quartz here educational, fun, and exciting.
Where we found quartz at Crowders Mountain
You can find various quartz specimens in the mountain’s exposed rock faces and rugged cliffs.
Shining Rock
Shining Rock is a one-of-a-kind place to find quartz in the state’s mountains. The area’s name comes from the large, naturally occurring quartz rock that sparkles and shines, giving the place its name.
It stands out in the Pisgah National Forest, known for its wide range of minerals and beautiful scenery. The quartz here is white and pure, so it sparkles brightly.
The Shining has beautiful views and lets you experience the great outdoors. Hiking trails in the area go through various landscapes, from dense forests to open meadows, with the Appalachian Mountains in the background.
Where we found quartz at Shining Rock
Quartz was brought to the surface by geological processes and now forms large, visible outcrops. These outcrops are not only beautiful, but they also make it easy to find and look at the quartz.
Sugar Mountain
Sugar Mountain is not just a popular ski destination; it’s also a great spot for finding quartz. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this area is known for its scenic beauty and rich geological features.
The mountain’s terrain includes a variety of rocks, among which quartz is a significant component. The reason why Sugar Mountain is good for quartz hunting is due to its geological makeup.
The region is part of an ancient mountain range and has experienced various geological processes over millions of years, leading to the formation and exposure of quartz.
Where we found quartz at Sugar Mountain
You can find quartz crystals in the rocks or along the trails here. It’s best to look after it has rained or been worn away by nature, as this can reveal new pieces.
Other Great Places To Find North Carolina Quartz
Following our top picks, we wanted to discuss the other locations on our list. Below is a list of a few additional sites where we have had success, and below that is a breakdown of each recommendation by county.
Our recommendations by county
| County | Location |
| Alamance | Burlington Area, Buck Hill |
| Alamance | Burlington area, Superior Stone Quarry |
| Ashe | Shatley Springs |
| Avery | Grandfather Mountain |
| Beaufort | Pamlico River |
| Buncombe | Beaucatcher Mountain |
| Buncombe | Lookout Mountain |
| Burke | South Mountain area mines |
| Burke | Walker Top Mountain |
| Caldwell | Grandmother’s Mountain |
| Catawba | Shuford Mine |
| Cherokee | Snake Ridge |
| Cherokee | Martin Creek |
| Cherokee | Vengeance Creek |
| Cleveland | Broad River |
| Cleveland | Mountain Mine |
| Cleveland | Jones Mine |
| Cleveland | Little Harris Creek |
| Gaston | Little Beaverdam Creek |
| Halifax | Medoc Mountain State Park |
| Harnett | Hector Creek |
| Harnett | Chalibeate Springs |
| Harnett | Raven Rock State Park |
| Macom | Mason Mountain |
| Macom | Tathams Creek |
| Macom | Tesentee Creek |
| Macom | Thorn Mountain |
| Macom | Tremount Mountain |
| Macom | Turtle Pond Creek |
| Madison | Mars Hill |
| Rutherford | Hollis area, Huckleberry Mountain |
| Rutherford | Rutherfordton area, Hollands Creek |
| Stokes | Hanging Rock State Park |
| Transylvania | Pink Beds Recreation Area |
| Vance | Kerr Reservoir |
| Vance | Island Creek |
| Wilkes | Bending Rock Mountain |
| Wilkes | Honey Creek |
Common Quartz-Hunting Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions about finding quartz in the state that should also be answered:
Is it illegal to collect quartz in North Carolina?
The legality of collecting quartz or any other minerals in the state depends on the location and the specific regulations in place.
To collect these minerals on private property, you need permission from the owner. Doing so without permission is theft and trespassing.
Mineral collecting, like national forests and state parks, can be limited or banned on state and federal lands. For example, it’s usually okay to pick up a few minerals for personal use in national forests. Still, it’s usually against the law to do so for profit or in large amounts.
It’s very important to learn about and follow the rules for the place you want to visit. If you are not sure what to do, always ask the right people for permission or advice.
The Best Places To Buy Quartz In North Carolina
It’s always exciting to hold a piece of quartz, but some people do not like the dirty and hard work that goes along with it. This is for you if you want to find quartz without having to do that!
Here are some of our favorite rock shops in the area where you can find and buy various quartz specimens:
- Enter The Earth – 1 Page Ave #125, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
- Gem Avenue – 400 E Arrowhead Rd, Charlotte, NC 28213, United States
- Points of Light Crystal and Mineral Gallery – 391 Merrimon Ave, Asheville, NC 28801, United States
- Ruby City Gems & Minerals – 130 E Main St, Franklin, NC 28734, United States
- Treasure Quest Mining – 414 Upchurch St, Apex, NC 27502, United States
