The quest to find turquoise in Nevada is exciting because the state is dotted with places where these precious stones have been discovered. Generally, turquoise is nestled in the rugged mountains or hidden in the dry, sunbaked basins.

However, it’s important to know that while turquoise can be found all over Nevada, many of the known mines don’t produce it anymore. But don’t worry, there are still spots where you can hunt for these beautiful stones.

For those who have a keen interest in finding more than just turquoise, be sure to check out our guide on how to mine gems in Nevada.

What Is Nevada Turquoise Anyway?

Turquoise is a really cool mineral that has been used in jewelry and decoration for a long time. The striking blue to green color makes it easy to spot and identify turquoise.

This stone is usually found in dry places where rainwater can flow through the soil and rocks, picking up minerals like copper and aluminum on the way.

It can also be found in areas where there are copper mines because copper is a key ingredient in making turquoise.

As for what turquoise is worth, its value depends on a few things like its color, if it has any patterns, and how hard it is. After all, softer stones don’t last as long in jewelry.

The most sought-after turquoise has a smooth, even color and doesn’t have any cracks or blemishes.

People love turquoise for its beauty and the fact that no two pieces are exactly the same. This makes each piece special and sometimes quite valuable to collectors and jewelry makers.

The Types Of Turquoise Found In Nevada

Nevada is famous for its colorful turquoise, each type with its own unique charm. The kind of turquoise you find depends on the mine it comes from.

Different mines in Nevada give us turquoise with different colors and patterns. Some might have a smooth blue while others show off eye-catching greens mixed with interesting web-like patterns.

Here are some of the types of turquoise you’ll find in Nevada:

• Blue Diamond turquoise
• Lone Mountain turquoise
• Number 8 turquoise
• Damale turquoise
• Dry Creek turquoise
• Fox turquoise
• New Lander turquoise
• Blue Ridge turquoise
• Carico Lake turquoise
• Royston turquoise

The Best Places To Find Turquoise in Nevada

Finding turquoise can be a real adventure, but it’s not always easy. The search requires patience and a keen eye, as the blue-green mineral likes to hide in the most unexpected places.

Without someone to show you the ropes, you might walk right past it, never knowing it was there. That’s why having the right guidance is key to uncovering these hidden gems.

Royston Turquoise Mine

The Royston Turquoise Mine is a bustling hub for those seeking the thrill of unearthing their own piece of Nevada turquoise. This mine is known for a wide variety of turquoise, ranging in color from deep green to rich, sky blue.

The geological conditions here are just right for the formation of this mineral, with the right mix of elements and a long history of geological processes at play. The terrain is rugged and the mine itself is a testament to the area’s rich mineral bounty.

While the Royston Turquoise Mine welcomes visitors to experience the excitement of mining, not all mines and claims in Nevada are open to the public.

The Nevada Division of Minerals & the Commission on Mineral Resources have clear guidelines and rules for rock collecting.

To ensure that collectors are doing things right, a quick check with these authorities will provide the necessary information on how to responsibly collect rocks and enjoy the natural resources.

Where we found turquoise in the Royston Turquoise Mine

The Otteson Brothers Turquoise Mine Tour gives visitors a chance to explore these veins and uncover turquoise themselves.

The tours guide rockhounds to the promising parts of the mine where they can dig for their own pieces of this blue-green mineral.

Lander County

Lander County is a place of diverse landscapes, where the rugged mountains meet wide-open valleys. The geography here is a mix of high desert terrain and mountainous areas, with peaks rising sharply against the skyline.

The ground is a patchwork of sagebrush flats and rocky outcrops, and the land tells a story of a dynamic geological past.

Geologically, it’s a place where you can see the forces of the earth at work, with exposed rock formations that hint at volcanic activity and the movement of tectonic plates long ago.

This creates a variety of minerals and rocks, making the area a spot of interest for rockhounds and geologists.

Where we found turquoise in Lander County

Lander County contains several turquoise mines, each offering different shades and qualities of the stone.

The Battle Mountain area mines, Damale Mine, Dry Creek Mine, Fox Mine, New Lander Mine, and Blue Ridge Mine are just some of the places where to mine for turquoise.

Keep in mind that these mines are typically on private property, so it’s essential to get permission from the owners before attempting to explore or collect any minerals.

Esmeralda County

Esmeralda County is a region of stark beauty with a landscape that’s both rough and majestic. Its geography is characterized by sweeping valleys bordered by towering mountains, creating a dramatic contrast that’s a feast for the eyes.

The terrain is a mix of arid desert basins and rocky, mountainous areas that rise up from the flatlands. Geologically, it’s a showcase of natural history, with exposed rock formations and diverse mineral deposits that draw rockhounds and geologists alike.

The county is a patchwork of volcanic remnants, sedimentary layers, and complex fault systems that tell the tale of the earth’s crust in motion.

This area is a field laboratory where the ground beneath holds clues to the processes that have shaped the region over millennia.

Where we found turquoise in Esmeralda County

Esmeralda County is dotted with numerous turquoise mines, where Nevada turquoise is still found today. Sites like the Lone Mountain Mine and Ajax Mine are well-known spots where this blue-green mineral is extracted.

Additionally, the Monte Cristo Range area mines and the Candelaria Mining District also have a history of turquoise mining. These locations, including the area around the ghost town of Basalt, offer potential finds.

It’s important to remember that these mines are often on private property, so securing permission from the owners is a must before setting out to explore or collect.

Pilot Range

The Pilot Range is a striking collection of mountains that cut a dramatic silhouette against the sky. The geography here is a blend of sharp peaks and broad valleys that stretch out under a canopy of clear, wide skies.

Terrain-wise, the area is a mix of rugged cliffs, steep slopes, and rolling hillsides covered with a tough blanket of shrubs and grasses.

Geologically, the range is a showcase of ancient rocks, with exposed formations that reveal a history of volcanic activity and the slow but relentless shift of tectonic plates.

Minerals are plentiful in the area, telling tales of the earth’s inner workings that are a delight for any rockhound to uncover.

Where we found turquoise on the Pilot Range

In the Pilot Range, rockhounds can find pockets of turquoise in the weathered and exposed rocks that scatter the slopes.

The turquoise in this area is usually nestled in hidden veins that can be revealed through careful exploration and knowledge of the landscape. Learning how to find turquoise in Nevada involves understanding these geological clues.

Excelsior Mountains

The Excelsior Mountains are a remarkable chain of high, rugged peaks that dominate the skyline. This range is characterized by steep slopes and valleys, interspersed with areas of flat, open spaces.

The terrain is a challenging mix of rocky outcrops and loose gravel, making it an exciting place for those who like to explore.

Geologically, the mountains are composed of a variety of rock types, including volcanic and sedimentary rocks, which hint at a vibrant geological past.

The diversity of rocks in the Excelsior Mountains makes them a fascinating area for study, revealing a complex history of the forces that have shaped the earth’s surface.

Where we found turquoise on the Excelsior Mountains

Turquoise has been discovered at the eastern end of the Excelsior Mountains. Here, the blue-green mineral is scattered across multiple claims, where it lies hidden among the slopes and at the head of a steep, rocky gulch.

Those looking to find turquoise in Nevada will have to do a bit of climbing, but the slopes and gulches in these mountains are known spots where turquoise seekers can try their luck.

Other Great Places To Find Nevada Turquoise

Nevada is a playground for those who love to hunt for minerals, with turquoise being a colorful gem hidden within its landscape. The state is speckled with various areas where this blue-green mineral can be unearthed.

From the dry, dusty trails of remote mountain ranges to the open pits of former mines, these spots offer a chance for discovery. To help rock enthusiasts, here’s a list of areas in Nevada known for their turquoise deposits.

Our recommendations by county

Common Turquoise-Hunting Questions

Knowing how to find turquoise in Nevada is a mix of skill, patience, and a bit of local knowledge. Here’s the information you need to know if you want to know how to find turquoise in Nevada.

Is it illegal to collect turquoise in Nevada?

Collecting turquoise in Nevada isn’t illegal, but there are rules you need to follow. The land you’re on will determine what you can do.

If it’s public land, like Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas, you’re usually allowed to collect small amounts of rocks and minerals for personal use. But, if the land is private, you must get permission from the landowner.

Even on public land, there might be specific rules about what tools you can use. It’s a good idea to check with the local BLM office and other authorities to understand the guidelines.

Some areas are also off-limits for collecting, like National Parks or certain wilderness areas. 

The Best Places To Buy Turquoise In Nevada

Across the state, there are shops that specialize in selling turquoise and other rocks and minerals, offering a range of pieces from rough stones to finely crafted jewelry.

Each shop has its own unique selection, making the search for the perfect piece of turquoise an exciting experience. Below are our favorite places to visit

• Erick Begay Native American Jewelry – N8tiveArts – 1311 Boulder City Pkwy, Boulder City, NV 89005
• Hoover Dam Trading Post – 1300 Boulder City Pkwy, Boulder City, NV 89005
• Earthe Energe – 1023 Rock Blvd A, Sparks, NV 89431
• The Jewelry District – 4300 Meadows Ln Suite 2060, Las Vegas, NV 89107
• Quartzsite Minerals – 4300 Meadows Ln #1290, Las Vegas, NV 89107