While agates are not as common in Maine as they are in some other regions, the thrill of finding one here is truly rewarding. If you’re up for this challenge, this complete guide will be handy for you.
We’ll share with you the great sites where you can find elusive agates in Maine. Some of these include the Gleason Cove, Loring Cove, and Howard Lake. We’ll also share with you the different kinds of agates, each with its own unique charm.
Exploring our state and hunting for Maine agates is an adventure worth embarking on. With a little patience and some guidance, you can discover these geological marvels in the heart of our beautiful state!
What Maine Agate Is
Agates are a type of chalcedony, which is a variety of quartz. What sets them apart are their striking bands and vibrant colors. These bands form as the mineral-rich solutions flow into cavities within rocks, layering them over time.
Its mesmerizing display of intricate patterns and hues is among the reasons for agate’s price and value in the market.
Another reason for its price is its availability. While they can be discovered in various places around the world, they’re most commonly found in areas with volcanic or metamorphic rocks.
In Maine, agates naturally occur, although they can be quite difficult to find because they are not common. But that’s why we’re here! Just keep in mind that patience and a keen eye are essential to finding agates in Maine.
Before we discuss each of the great agate-bearing sites here, let’s go through some of the most unique types of agates out there:
Moss Agates
Moss agate is known for its green or brown inclusions that resemble moss or other natural patterns. These are made up of minerals, typically chlorite or hornblende, that create intricate, moss-like structures within the translucent chalcedony.
Truly, they’re like little windows into the natural world. And the good news is you can find this beauty in Maine! While they may not be very common, you have a fair chance of spotting them here.
Fire Agates
Fire agate displays iridescent flashes, resembling the flickering flames of a campfire or the glimmering colors of a peacock’s tail. This optical effect is caused by the interference of light as it passes through thin layers of alternating materials, often silica and iron oxide.
If you’re curious to know whether you can stumble upon this type in Maine, the answer is unfortunately a no. Fire agates are primarily found in the southwestern U.S., particularly in Arizona, California, and Nevada.
Blue Lace Agates
Blue lace agate is named after its delicate sky-blue color and intricate lace-like patterns. It’s composed of microcrystalline quartz and often features bands or swirls of soft blue shades, resembling wispy clouds or delicate lacework.
While this find is a dream come true to find in Maine, it doesn’t naturally form here. Blue lace agate is more commonly found in regions with different geological conditions, such as South Africa and parts of the southwestern U.S.
Don’t be sad, though, because aside from agates, there are plenty of other beautiful crystals that you might stumble upon here. Check out our article on the great crystal mine sites in Maine to find out more.
The key factors in our recommendations are:
- 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 agate 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 tools every agate hunter will need
When you're out looking for agates having the right tools for the job is really going to make or break your success. 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 agate 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 agate-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
Northeast Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Northeastern 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.
The Best Spots To Find Agates in Maine
While there are many excellent gem mine sites in Maine, we recommend exploring the following great sites to find agates here:
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
Gleason Cove
Nestled along the picturesque coastline of Maine, Gleason Cove offers a rich tapestry of geological wonders. Geographically, it’s situated in the Midcoast region, near the town of Harpswell. Its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean contributes to its distinctive coastal features.
Its rugged shoreline has a mix of rocky outcrops, tide pools, and sandy beaches, creating a dynamic environment. The accessibility of this location makes it a fantastic spot for rockhounding adventures.
It’s part of the Brunswick Formation, which consists of various metamorphic rocks like schist and phyllite. Within this formation, agates can be found.
Gleason Cove is reachable by car and is within a reasonable driving distance from popular Maine towns like Brunswick and Portland. But before you get excited to set out here, make sure to review Maine’s latest collecting guidelines first.
Where we found agates in Gleason Cove
You can find agates concealed within the gravel beds and rocky deposits of Gleason Cove. The relentless action of ocean waves has exposed and polished these agates over time, making them more accessible to you.
Loring Cove
Tucked away along the rugged coast of our state is Loring Cove, a remarkable location that offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and natural wonders.
This cove is situated near the charming town of Georgetown in the Midcoast region. Like Gleason Cove, Loring Cove’s distinct coastal features are due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
The cove is endowed with a striking combination of rocky cliffs, pebbly beaches, and tidal pools. The terrain here is a mix of rocky outcrops and gravelly shores, which is ideal for agates to form.
Loring Cove is also a part of the Coastal Maine Belt, a region known for its metamorphic rocks. Collecting agates here is a rewarding experience, as their vibrant bands and intricate patterns stand out against Maine’s coastal beauty.
Getting to Loring Cove is relatively easy. It’s accessible by car and is within a reasonable driving distance from popular towns like Bath and Boothbay Harbor.
Where we found agates in Loring Cove
You can find agates if you search through the gravel beds and rocky deposits of Loring Cove. These, too, are polished over time, thanks to the ocean waves in this area.
Howard Lake
Howard Lake is nestled in the heart of the Maine wilderness, near the town of Wayne. Its remote location adds to its charm, providing a peaceful and serene environment for geological exploration.
The lake itself is surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. Its terrain is influenced by a mix of rocky outcrops, pebbly shores, and forested areas. This diverse landscape is perfect for finding agates.
Howard Lake is part of the broader geological framework of our state, with rocks predominantly composed of granite and schist. The agates found here offer a unique contrast to these primary rock types.
However, getting to this site may require a bit of effort due to its remote location. It’s accessible by car, but keep in mind that some roads leading to it may be unpaved and rugged.
Where we found agates in Howard Lake
We recommend exploring along the shorelines of Howard Lake and searching through its gravel beds and rocky deposits to find agates.
Other Great Places To Find Agates in Maine
Additional areas you can find agates
We highly encourage you to start your exploration in the following areas where Maine agates usually hide:
Lake Shores
Maine offers some exciting opportunities for agate hunting along its beautiful lakeshores.
Agates are often hidden in the gravel beds. The constant action of waves and water movement helps expose those that were previously buried, making them easier to find and collect.
The combination of water, weathering, and geological factors can also polish and enhance the appearance of agates, making them more vibrant and attractive.
Beaches
The beaches in Maine are also great spots to collect agates. The constant action of waves and tides plays a vital role in hunting these gemstones.
Agates are often concealed within the sand and gravel along the shoreline. Over time, the abrasive action of water helps to expose these hidden treasures.
Maine’s diverse geological makeup also contributes to the presence of agates on its beaches. The combination of metamorphic and igneous rocks here creates the right conditions for agate formation.
When searching for Maine agates on its beaches, observe stones that display distinctive bands, vibrant colors, and intriguing patterns. They will be hard to miss!
Streams and Creeks
Streams and creeks are fantastic places to search for agates, and Maine offers some excellent opportunities.
Agates are often created when silica-rich solutions fill cavities in rocks, and over time, layers of minerals build up to create their distinctive patterns. Streams and creeks can expose these hidden treasures as they erode the surrounding rocks, revealing agates that were once nestled deep within.
The constant flow of water also helps polish and shape agates. When you explore Maine’s streams and creeks, keep an eye out for rounded, colorful stones that stand out from the surrounding rock.
Common Agate-Hunting Questions
In this section, we’ll answer the most common agate-hunting question that other rockhounds have asked in the past in case you share the same query:
Is it illegal to collect agate in Maine?
It’s generally legal to collect agates in Maine as long as you follow certain guidelines and regulations. We have laws and regulations in place to protect our natural resources, and these may apply to rock-collecting activities.
It’s essential to collect agates responsibly and ethically, without damaging the environment or disturbing wildlife. Always obtain any necessary permits or permissions if required, such as in state parks or private property.
Additionally, be mindful of any posted signs or restrictions that may prohibit collecting in certain areas. Should you need more clarification, visit the official website of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry (DACF).
The Best Places To Buy Agates In Maine
If you’re curious, not just about Maine agates, but also about agates from other areas, your best chance of taking home one from here is by paying a visit to our trusted local rock and mineral shops.
Below are some of our favorites:
- Crystal Joys – 191 Middle St, Portland, ME 04101
- Lavish Earth – 15 Holly St, Scarborough, ME 04074
- Leighton’s of West Paris – 194 Bethel Rd, West Paris, ME 04289
- Northern Maine Minerals – 16 Pritham Ave, Greenville, ME 04441
- Seaside Stones – PO Box 512, Perry, ME 04667
- The Raven Collections – 406 Main St, Norway, ME 04268
- The Rock and Art Shop – 36 Central St, Bangor, ME 04401
If you have any recommendations for our list please leave a comment below!
