Known for its beautiful purple hue and unique crystalline structure, Amethyst has been highly valued throughout history. But just as with any other treasure, finding it on your own can be a challenging and time-consuming task if you don’t have the right guide.
If you’re planning to try your luck finding Amethyst in South Carolina, we’ve put together this helpful guide that will point you to the top places for your journey. With our guidance, you can discover the joy of finding your own gem and experience the thrill of unearthing one of nature’s most beautiful treasures.
What is South Carolina Amethyst?
Belonging to the quartz family, Amethyst is a crystalline mineral that’s highly valued for its beauty and unique physical properties. Its purple color is caused by the presence of iron and other trace elements in its crystal structure. The shade of purple can vary from light lilac to deep violet, depending on the location and conditions of formation.
Amethyst is typically found in geodes or vugs, which are cavities or pockets inside rocks. These formations can be found in a variety of locations, including volcanic rocks, limestone, and granite.
Because of its allure and stunning looks, it is commonly used in jewelry, and is also popular among those who practice meditation and other spiritual practices due to its believed healing properties.
While Amethyst can be found in many locations around the world, finding high-quality specimens can be particularly difficult. Luckily, South Carolina is home to a number of spots where these natural wonders can be found.
The Different Types Of Amethyst And What They Look Like
Amethyst is a kind of quartz that forms in various geological settings, such as within volcanic rocks or in cavities of granites. These different environments contribute to the diverse appearances and types of this beautiful mineral.
The variety seen in amethyst is due to trace elements and impurities within the crystal structure. Elements like iron and manganese can alter the hue, leading to the beautiful spectrum of purples and other colors found in these crystals.
Brandberg Amethyst
Brandberg amethyst is a captivating variety of quartz, renowned for its unique blend of elements like silicon dioxide, iron, and trace amounts of other minerals.
These components come together to form a crystal that not only holds geological significance but also showcases a striking array of hues and features.
The appearance of Brandberg amethyst is truly remarkable, characterized by its color range from deep purples to vibrant lilacs.
The varying shades are a result of the iron content within the crystal structure, which can fluctuate, leading to diverse color intensities and patterns in each specimen.
Brandberg amethyst stands out for its inclusion patterns and the presence of phantom crystals within its structure.
These internal “ghosts” are formed by layers of other minerals, offering a glimpse into the crystal’s growth history and adding to its allure for those fascinated by the wonders of the natural world.
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- 🚙 Field-tested across America's rivers, ranchlands, mountains, and roadcuts
- 📘 Heavy duty laminated pages resist dust, sweat, and water
- 🧠 Zero fluff — just clear visuals and straight-to-the-point info
- ⭐ Rated 4.8★ by real collectors who actually use it in the field
Ametrine
Ametrine is an intriguing mineral that captures the imagination of those interested in rocks and minerals. This unique gem is a combination of two quartz varieties: amethyst and citrine.
The beauty of ametrine lies in its striking coloration, which ranges from a blend of vibrant purple and golden yellow.
This color variation is a result of differing oxidation states of iron within the crystal, influenced by temperature and radiation exposure during formation.
Ametrine is notable for its distinct zoning of colors, where purple and yellow hues can be clearly seen in the same crystal. This feature, combined with its unique composition, sets ametrine apart from different kinds of amethyst.
Chevron Amethyst
Chevron amethyst is a captivating type of amethyst known for its distinctive pattern. It’s easily recognized by its unique V-shaped or chevron patterns, which are a combination of deep purple and white or clear quartz layers.
These patterns and color variations are due to differences in iron content and other impurities in the layers, resulting in the striking contrast seen in chevron amethyst.
Chevron amethyst is not only beautiful but also a subject of interest for its formation process. The alternating layers of colors provide a visual record of the crystal’s growth history, making it a fascinating example for geological study.
Auralite
Auralite is an intriguing type of mineral that’s a combination of amethyst and several other trace minerals. Its composition includes silicon dioxide from amethyst, along with a mixture of elements like iron, copper, and titanium.
This mineral’s appearance is quite distinct, often showing a deep purple hue similar to what amethyst looks like, but with additional layers or inclusions of other colors.
These variations in color are due to the various trace minerals present in auralite, each contributing to its unique and colorful display.
A standout feature of auralite is the presence of multiple minerals within a single specimen, sometimes including up to 23 different types.
This mix not only gives auralite its diverse color range but also makes it a fascinating subject for those studying minerals and their properties.
Prasiolite
Prasiolite is an interesting variety of quartz. It often contains traces of iron, which play a key role in giving prasiolite its unique color.
This mineral is known for its beautiful green color, which can range from a light, almost transparent green to a deeper, more olive shade.
The green color of prasiolite is usually the result of heat treatment, either occurring naturally in the earth or artificially, transforming certain types of amethyst or yellowish quartz into prasiolite.
Naturally-occurring prasiolite is rare, as most available prasiolite is created through artificial means.
Cacoxenite amethyst
Cacoxenite is an intriguing mineral primarily composed of iron, aluminum, and phosphate, along with other elements like oxygen and hydrogen. This combination of elements gives cacoxenite its unique chemical makeup and properties.
Cacoxenite typically exhibits a striking golden-yellow to brownish-yellow color. This coloration is mainly due to the presence of iron in its structure, which imparts the rich hues that characterize this mineral.
A notable feature of cacoxenite is that it often forms as an inclusion within other minerals, such as amethyst, creating a beautiful contrast.
These inclusions of cacoxenite can appear as radiating or feathery formations, adding an intricate and fascinating aspect to the host mineral.
Where you can find cacoxenite amethyst
Cacoxenite amethyst can be found in the United States, Germany, and Brazil.
Phantom Amethyst
Phantom amethyst is a fascinating variety of amethyst. It stands out due to the presence of “phantoms” – ghost-like inclusions within its structure, which give it a distinct and layered look.
In phantom amethyst, one can observe a range of colors from deep purples to lighter hues, often appearing in layers or as phantom shapes within the crystal.
These color variations are typically due to trace amounts of iron and other minerals that get trapped during the crystal’s growth, influencing its final color.
Phantom amethyst provides a visual record of the crystal’s growth history. The crystal outlines and layers within the stone are formed by pauses in the crystal’s growth, offering a glimpse into geological processes over time.
Where you can find phantom amethyst
There are notable sources of phantom amethyst in Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States. In the United States, phantom amethyst is often discovered in states like Arizona, North Carolina, and Colorado.
Pink Amethyst
Pink amethyst is a unique and relatively rare variety of the common mineral amethyst. The presence of trace elements, particularly iron, contributes to its distinct pink hue.
The appearance of pink amethyst ranges from a delicate, light pink to a deeper, more vivid pink.
This variation in color is largely due to the concentration and distribution of iron within the crystal, which affects how light interacts with the mineral.
Pink amethyst is its often found in geodes or clusters, where multiple crystals grow together in a captivating display.
Amethyst Geodes
Amethyst geodes are fascinating natural formations, with traces of iron giving them their famous purple color. These geodes form in volcanic rocks and are essentially hollow, lined with amethyst crystals.
A key feature of amethyst geodes is their crystal-lined cavity, which creates a stunning natural display. When you look inside an amethyst geode, you’ll see a range of purple hues, from light lavender to deep violet.
The color variation is due to the amount of iron and the specific conditions under which the crystals formed, such as temperature and the presence of other trace elements.
Geodes can vary greatly in size, from small enough to fit in your hand to large enough to stand in, and each one is unique in its crystal formation and color pattern.
Where you can find amethyst geodes
Amethyst geodes are commonly found in Brazil and Uruguay. In the United States, they can also be found in places like Arizona and Oregon.
Cactus Amethyst
Cactus amethyst is also known as spirit quartz. Its unique structure is enriched with additional minerals, which contribute to its distinctive appearance.
This type of amethyst is characterized by a central quartz crystal covered in smaller crystal growths, giving it a spiky, cactus-like appearance.
The color ranges from pale lilac to deep purple, with the variations largely influenced by the amount of iron and other trace elements within the crystals.
A notable feature of cactus amethyst is the way the smaller crystals radiate outward from the central crystal.
This formation not only creates a stunning visual effect but also makes each piece of cactus amethyst a unique and fascinating specimen.
Regarding the price of amethyst, it can vary significantly based on the size, quality, and depth of color. While smaller, less vibrant pieces are relatively affordable, larger specimens with deep, rich colors can be quite valuable.
Scepter Amethyst
Scepter amethyst gets its name from its distinctive scepter-like formation, where a larger crystal cap sits atop a smaller crystal stem.
The color variations in scepter amethyst are influenced by the amount of iron and other trace elements within the crystal, coupled with the specific conditions under which it formed.
A key feature of scepter amethyst is its symbolic scepter shape, representing a crystal formation process where a second phase of growth occurs on an already-formed crystal base. This creates a striking and regal scepter-like appearance.
Where you can find scepter amethyst
Scepter amethyst can be found in several locations around the world, with notable spots including Brazil, Madagascar, and Zambia.
In the United States, areas like Washington State and North Carolina are also known for their scepter amethyst discoveries.
Smoky Amethyst
Smoky amethyst is a unique variation among amethyst types that combines features of both smoky quartz and amethyst. The presence of trace elements like iron and aluminum gives it its unique coloration.
This mineral exhibits a blend of smoky brown and purple hues, creating a captivating visual effect. This is due to natural irradiation and the varying amounts of impurities, which influence the depth and intensity of both the smoky and purple colors.
A notable feature of smoky amethyst is its dual-tone
- 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 amethyst 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 Spots To Find Amethyst in South Carolina
Photo provided by @finemineralphotography and Andras Lelkes Collection
We’ve scoured our state to find the top places for Amethyst mining here. And while there’s an abundance of great places to mine gems in South Carolina, not all of them have Amethysts, so make to checkout the spots we will share with you below.
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
Abbeville County
Located in the northwestern part of South Carolina, Abbeville County is a beautiful place to visit, with a mix of stunning geography and diverse terrain. It’s characterized by rolling hills and lush forests, and is also home to a number of lakes and rivers, making it a great place for outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking.
As far as geology goes, this county has a lot to offer. Its area is rich in minerals, and one of the most sought-after specimens here is amethyst. You can also find a variety of other gemstones and fossils scattered throughout the region, which you can take home with you as long as you comply with our state’s collecting guidelines.
Where we found amethyst in Abbeville County
This county is truly blessed to have plenty of Amethyst mining spots that you are welcome to visit and explore, such as the following:
- Antreville area
- Ellis-Jones Amethyst Mine in Due West
- Barnes property in Lowndesville
- McCalla farm in Lowndesville
- J.T. Algary Farm in Donalds
- Diamond Hill Quartz Mine
- Rocky River Mine
There are several solid locations here making it one of our top amethyst mining locations.
If you want REAL results finding incredible rocks and minerals you need one of these 👇👇👇
Finding the coolest rocks in isn’t luck, it's knowing what to look for. Thousands of your fellow rock hunters are already carrying Rock Chasing field guides. Maybe it's time you joined the community.
Lightweight, mud-proof, and packed with clear photos, it’s become the go-to tool for anyone interested discovering what’s hidden under our red dirt and what they've already found.
Join them, and make your next rockhounding trip actually pay off.
What makes it different:
- 📍 Find and identify 140 incredible crystals, rocks, gemstones, minerals, and geodes across the USA
- 🚙 Field-tested across America's rivers, ranchlands, mountains, and roadcuts
- 📘 Heavy duty laminated pages resist dust, sweat, and water
- 🧠 Zero fluff — just clear visuals and straight-to-the-point info
- ⭐ Rated 4.8★ by real collectors who actually use it in the field
Horse Creek Valley
Horse Creek valley is located in the northwest part of our state, and it’s known for its rugged terrain and stunning natural beauty. The area has rolling hills, dense forests, and rocky outcroppings that make it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
But that’s not all— Horse Creek Valley is also home to some fantastic geological features, including a variety of minerals and gemstones, including amethyst, which can be found in various locations throughout the valley.
Getting to Horse Creek Valley is relatively easy, as it’s located just a short drive from major cities like Greenville and Columbia.
Where we found amethyst in Horse Creek Valey
When you visit Horse Creek Valley, you can find amethysts in area float and gravel pits of the area. You can also visit Perry Gravel Company for more specimens.
If you’re wondering how much is Amethyst worth, visit our full pricing guide.
Anderson County
Known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers, Anderson County is the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some time in nature. From rolling hills to dense forests to sparkling lakes and rivers, there’s something for everyone here.
But what will really catch your attention is the area’s geology. This county is home to a wide variety of minerals and gemstones, including amethyst. When you visit here, you’ll definitely want to explore the area’s many creeks and streams to try your luck at finding some of these beautiful purple crystals.
Where we found amethyst in Anderson County
We highly recommend visiting and exploring the following specific spots in Anderson County to get your hands on some Amethyst specimens:
- SR-28 almost to border of Abbeville County
- Highway 28 where road cuts dike near lake
- Sherard Property in Iva
- Moffetsville area
Lake Murray
Located in the central part of our state, Lake Murray is a sprawling body of water that’s surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural scenery you’ll find anywhere. Characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and rocky outcroppings, this area is definitely a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Aside from its stunning views, Lake Murray is also home to a variety of interesting geological features, including a number of minerals and gemstones such as amethyst. What’s best of all is that you can easily reach this place through a short drive from major cities like Columbia and Lexington.
Where we found amethyst at Lake Murray
Explore along the east shore of Lake Murray in Ballentine where you can find abundant specimens of amethyst.
Greenwood County
Greenwood County is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be explored! Located in the western part of our state, this county is characterized by its rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling waterways. It’s a beautiful destination that’s perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors.
Greenwood County is home to a variety of minerals and gemstones, including amethyst. If you’re interested to go here to find South Carolina amethysts, you can drive from major cities like Greenville and Columbia to reach this place.
Where we found amethyst in Greenwood County
To find amethyst in Greenwood County, explore the following spots:
- Wrenn property
- Numerous exposures, outcrops, fields on the northeast part of the county
- Area fields and cut banks of Shoals Juction
- R.M. Haddon property
- R.W. Dunn property
- Float near Lake Greenwood
Other Great Places To Mine For Amethyst in South Carolina
Our top suggested places for where you can find amethyst in South Carolina are not the only ones you can explore. In fact, there are a few other great spots where you can mine amethyst here. And we’ve listed them down by county to make it easier for you.
Our recommendations by county
| County | Location |
| Aiken | Clearwater area gravel pits |
| Cherokee | Near the Buffalo Church on the W.T. Gibbons property and adjacent streams |
| Cherokee | At the Barkat Mine in Kings Creek |
| Laurens | In the fields to the right of the road in Cross Hill |
| Laurens | At the Princeton spring |
| Union | In Jonesville area |
Additional areas you can find amethyst
You may find that some of our recommendations cover areas that may be too wide to explore, so to help you narrow down your search, here are some of the most common areas where amethyst abounds. We suggest visiting these places when you get here.
Lake Shores
Lake shores are particularly great spots to find amethyst because the constant motion of its water can wash up all sorts of interesting stones and minerals. The geology of lake shores can also be varied, which means that there’s a higher likelihood of finding a variety of other gemstones.
One of the great things about searching for amethyst on lake shores is that it’s a fun and relaxing activity. There’s nothing quite like wading through the water and feeling the coolness of the lake on your feet while you search for gems. Plus, you never know what you might find— it could be a small amethyst crystal or a larger, more intricate piece.
Road Cuts
Road cuts are areas where rock and soil have been removed to create a roadway, and they can be great places to find gemstones. These areas often expose geological formations that might otherwise be hidden underground. These formations can contain a variety of minerals and crystals, including amethyst.
Another reason why road cuts are a great place to search for amethyst is that they are accessible. Unlike some other locations, which might require hiking or specialized equipment, road cuts can often be accessed from the side of a road.
This means that you can explore these areas without too much difficulty, and you might even be able to make a quick stop on a road trip to do some collecting.
Streams and Creeks
Stream and creek hunting for amethyst can be a lot of fun— and success— for collectors. These bodies of water have the potential to carry loose amethyst specimens downstream, especially after a heavy rainfall.
Additionally, streams and creeks are typically found in areas with favorable geological conditions for amethyst formation, such as near mountains or other areas with ancient volcanic activity.
Many public lands have streams or creeks that are open for recreational use, so you can often find a spot to search without too much trouble. And, on a side note, searching for amethyst in the water can be a refreshing change of pace from more traditional land-based collecting methods.
Lake Beds
Lake beds can be a surprisingly fruitful spots for amethyst hunting. A lot of people may not realize that lakes are often formed by geological activity, such as ancient volcanic activity, which creates the right conditions for amethyst formation.
Over time, erosion can expose these amethyst deposits and carry them into the lake, where they can settle on the lake bed.
While searching for amethyst in lake beds may require a bit more effort than some other methods, it can be a great way to find some truly unique specimens. You’ll need to get creative with your tools, as traditional rock hammers and chisels won’t be of much use in the soft sediment of the lake bed.
But with some patience and determination, you may be able to uncover some beautiful amethyst crystals that have been hidden away for years.
Common Amethyst-Hunting Questions
We’ll answer some of the most common questions when it comes to South Carolina amethyst mining:
Where can you find Amethyst Geodes in South Carolina?
Despite having plenty of spots to find amethyst gems, unfortunately, amethyst geodes do not naturally occur in South Carolina. However, if you’re keen on really taking home one, you can visit the rock and gem shops here. We’ve listed some of the best ones below.
Is it illegal to collect amethyst in South Carolina?
Collecting amethyst in South Carolina is legal for as long as you are obeying our state’s local collecting guidelines. Also, make sure you are familiar and compliant with any rules and regulations in place to protect our environment and biodiversity.
The Best Places To Buy Amethyst In South Carolina
Nothing beats the thrill and excitement of finding amethyst in its natural environment, but this level of exploration is simply not for everyone. So if you prefer to take home a specimen without breaking a sweat, we recommend paying a visit to our local rock and gem shops here. Some of the best ones are as follows:
Pennies & Feathers Gemstones – 566 N Anderson Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730
Gifu Crystal & Art Xchange, LLC – 510 U.S. 17 Business South Frontage Rd, Surfside Beach, SC 29575
Moonstone Crystal Shop – 165 Market Rd, Ladson, SC 29456
A&A Rockshop – 1614, 1624 W Main St, Lexington, SC 29072
Dixie Gem – 2517 Poinsett Hwy, Greenville, SC 29609
Peachy Keen Creations – 1108 King St, Charleston, SC 29401
Additional Places To Find Amethyst In Nearby States
Check out the guides we made for the nearby states where you can find amethysts as well:
If you have any recommendations for our list please leave a comment below!
