Amethyst, with its deep purple beauty, has been a favorite of gem hunters for ages. Our state is a treasure trove for these stunning crystals, hiding them in its varied landscapes.

Whether you’re a seasoned rock hound or just starting out, the thrill of finding your own Amethyst is hard to beat.

In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the best places in our state to hunt for these purple wonders. We’ll also share some handy tips to make your search more fun and successful.

So grab your gear and get ready to explore – there’s Amethyst waiting to be found!

How Amethyst Forms Here

Amethyst forms deep underground, where lava cools slowly inside large pockets. These pockets, often called geodes, fill with hot water full of minerals, especially silica.

Over time, the silica-rich water reacts with iron, creating the purple color. As the water cools and evaporates, it leaves behind crystals. These crystals grow over millions of years, layer by layer, forming amethyst.

The purple shade can vary depending on the amount of iron present and the temperature during formation.

The slow cooling process is key to creating the distinct, vibrant purple color that makes amethyst so unique and beautiful.

The Types Of Amethyst

Amethyst comes in multiple stunning types each with its unique beauty. Here are some of the types of Amethyst:

Cactus Amethyst

Cactus Amethyst, also known as Spirit Quartz, looks like a tiny crystal garden. It has a big crystal in the middle, surrounded by lots of smaller crystals. This gives it a sparkly, glittery look that catches the eye.

The colors can vary a lot. You might see purple, orange, yellow, or even clear crystals. Each piece is unique, with its own mix of colors and crystal shapes.

Its special growth pattern makes it different from regular amethyst. The “cactus-like” look is why it got its name. Crystal fans love it because each piece is one-of-a-kind.

Prasiolite

Prasiolite is a green amethyst that grabs attention with its unique color. It ranges from pale mint to deep olive green, standing out from its purple cousin, amethyst.

Most prasiolite in stores is made by heating amethyst or using special light treatments. This process changes the stone’s color from purple to green. Natural green prasiolite is quite rare.

Prasiolite offers a cheaper option for those who like green gems but find emeralds too pricey.

Chevron Amethyst

Chevron Amethyst stands out with its eye-catching V-shaped pattern. This stone combines white quartz and purple amethyst in alternating layers, creating a striking banded look.

The layers can be opaque or see-through, giving each piece a unique character. Its surface feels rough and bumpy, adding to its distinctive charm.

People often call it “Dogtooth Amethyst” or “Banded Amethyst” because of its special appearance.

It forms when silica-rich fluids fill spaces in volcanic rocks, resulting in its signature chevron pattern. Collectors love it for its rarity and unique look.

Ametrine

Ametrine is a show-stopper with its two-tone look. It combines the purple of amethyst and the yellow of citrine in one stone. The colors can blend gradually or have a sharp divide, making each piece unique.

High-quality ametrine is clear and free from flaws, letting light enhance its colors. Jewelers often cut it to show off the color split, creating eye-catching designs.

What makes ametrine special is how it forms. Changes in heat and pressure during its growth cause the two-color effect.

It’s the only gem that naturally combines amethyst and citrine, making it a favorite among rock enthusiasts.

Brandberg Amethyst

Brandberg Amethyst showcases a stunning range of colors, from light to deep purple, often mixed with smoky and clear quartz. You might spot red and silver hematite inclusions, adding to its charm.

These crystals come in various shapes, including single pieces, clusters, and unique skeletal growths. They’re known for their glass-like clarity and interesting internal structures, like phantoms and zoning.

What makes Brandberg Amethyst special is its combination with smoky quartz, which you don’t usually see in other amethysts.

The crystal formations are more defined and varied. It’s also quite old, forming in volcanic basalt estimated to be 132-135 million years old.

Cacoxenite Amethyst

Cacoxenite Amethyst combines deep purple amethyst with golden or brown cacoxenite inclusions. These inclusions look like tiny threads or tufts, creating a cool layered effect.

Each piece of Cacoxenite Amethyst is unique. The mix of purple and gold makes for some truly one-of-a-kind stones. No two pieces look exactly the same.

This stone is part of the “Super Seven” group, which includes seven different minerals in one stone. That makes it pretty special among rock collectors. Its rarity and unique look make it a favorite for those who love unusual stones.

Pink Amethyst

Pink Amethyst stands out with its soft pink to dusty rose color. It’s different from regular purple amethyst and even from rose quartz. The color comes from tiny bits of hematite inside the crystal.

This stone was only discovered in 2019, making it a newcomer in the gem world. Its recent discovery and unique color have made it quite popular among rock enthusiasts.

Pink Amethyst often has subtle patterns and sparkles, especially in sunlight. This makes it look really pretty. The way it forms is special too. The hematite mixes in while the crystal is growing, creating its unique pink shade.

Phantom Amethyst

Phantom Amethyst has a cool ghost-like appearance inside. These “phantoms” are layers of different minerals, often including smoky quartz. The color can be deep purple or light lavender.

When you look at it, you’ll see distinct layers inside. This layered look makes it different from regular amethyst. Some pieces might have color zones or internal cracks, which actually make them more interesting.

These stones tell a story of how they grew over time. Each layer shows a different stage of growth. This makes Phantom Amethyst popular with people who like to collect interesting rocks and learn about how they form.

Scepter Amethyst

Scepter Amethyst looks like a tiny royal scepter or wand. It has a thick bottom that gets skinnier towards the top, often with a distinct head. The color can be deep purple or light lavender, and it’s usually very clear and shiny.

What makes it special is how it forms. A bigger crystal grows around a smaller one, creating that unique scepter shape. This doesn’t happen often, so these stones are pretty rare.

Sometimes, you can find tiny bubbles or other minerals trapped inside the crystal. These little extras make each Scepter Amethyst unique. People who collect rocks love them because they’re so different from regular amethyst.

Smoky Amethyst

Smoky Amethyst is a mix of purple amethyst and brown or grey smoky quartz. This blend gives it a unique look. Some pieces might be more purple, while others are more smoky-colored.

This stone is pretty rare, which makes it special. It was only discovered in 2018, so it’s quite new in the rock world. Its dark color and sometimes the presence of other minerals inside make it stand out.

Smoky Amethyst combines features from both amethyst and smoky quartz. This mix makes it interesting for people who collect rocks. Its rarity and unique appearance have made it popular among those who love unusual stones.

What Rough Amethyst Looks Like

When collecting raw amethyst, it’s crucial to know what to look for. Here are some tips to help you identify authentic raw amethyst:

Look for the Purple Color

Rough amethyst usually has a distinct purple color, ranging from light lavender to deep violet.

The color might not be uniform and can appear patchy, with lighter or darker spots. If you find a rock with hints of purple, it’s worth a closer look.

Check for a Glassy or Waxy Luster

Rough amethyst usually has a glassy or slightly waxy look. When you hold it, tilt it in the light.

If it shines and reflects light well, that’s a good sign. A dull surface might mean it’s not real amethyst.

Notice the Crystal Structure

Amethyst typically forms in hexagonal shapes, which can be visible even in rough pieces. Look for sharp angles and flat faces.

The crystals may be small or clustered together, but the geometric structure is a good clue that you’ve found amethyst.

Assess the Density and Weight

Pick up the stone. Amethyst is denser than many other rocks. If it feels light, it might be a fake.

Real amethyst is dense, so if it feels substantial in your hand, you’re likely on the right track.

A Quick Request About Collecting

Tips on where to look

Once you get to the places we have listed below there are some things you should keep in mind when you’re searching:

Search Near Old Mines

Old mines are great places to find amethyst. Many mines have leftover material where you might spot purple crystals.

Even if a mine isn’t actively used, you can often find amethyst in the surrounding areas.

Explore Riverbeds

Riverbeds can be rich hunting grounds for amethyst. Over time, water carries rocks and minerals, depositing them in riverbeds.

Look for purple stones among the gravel and along the edges where the water slows down.

Check Hillsides and Slopes

Hillsides is another good spot. When rocks weather and break down, amethyst can be revealed on slopes. Pay attention to loose rocks and exposed areas.

Search in Local Gravel Pits

Gravel pits are another good option. These areas are often dug up for construction materials.

Sometimes, amethyst can be found mixed in with the gravel. Always ask for permission before exploring these sites.

The Best Spots To Find Amethyst in Georgia

Here are the best places in Georgia to find amethysts, in our opinion. There are numerous excellent locations to mine for gems in Georgia, but relatively few are great for finding amethysts. Even though some of these places are not well-known, they have regularly provided us with exciting options while looking.

Big Beryl Mine

The Big Beryl Mine in Georgia is a hidden gem for rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts. Located in the northern part of the state, this mine is in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by rugged terrain and picturesque landscapes. It’s like a hidden oasis, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The mine is named after the mineral beryl, a gemstone in various colors, including green, blue, and pink. The mine is also known for its abundance of other minerals, including mica, feldspar, and quartz.

Ensure you know Georgia’s most recent collecting laws before bringing anything home.

Where we found amethyst in the Big Beryl Mine

We found amethysts in all the Big Beryl Mine mining areas.

Coldwater Creek

Coldwater Creek is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Georgia, offering stunning scenery and unique geological features. Located in the northern part of the state, rugged mountains and lush forests surround this creek – it’s like a nature lover’s paradise. The creek is known for its crystal-clear waters, perfect for outside activities.

The geology of Coldwater Creek is quite fascinating – it’s like a natural laboratory waiting to be explored. The creek runs through an area of the Appalachian Mountains rich in minerals, including quartz, feldspar, and mica. These minerals are formed within pegmatite veins, created by the slow cooling of magma deep within the earth’s crust.

To get to Coldwater Creek, you must navigate some rocky terrain and steep hills. But once you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views and the peaceful sound of rushing water.

Where we found amethyst in the Coldwater Creek

Amethysts can be located along the banks of Coldwater Creek. Check out our guide to amethyst crystal prices if you want to know the value of your finds!

Garret Mine

The Garrett Mine in Georgia is a historic mine located in the northeast part of the state. The mine has a long history of producing significant amounts of gold and other precious metals. It has been operating since the early 1800s and has seen its fair share of ups and downs.

Today, the Garrett Mine is still a working mine known for its rich deposits of gold and other valuable metals. The mine is managed by a team of experienced professionals who use advanced techniques and technology to extract the minerals from the ground.

Where we found amethyst in the Garrett Mine

You can find amethysts in and around the Garrett Mine.

Hogg Mine

The Hogg Mine in Georgia is another historic mine located in the western part of the state. The mine has operated since the early 1800s and has a long history of producing gemstones, particularly amethyst, and quartz.

The mine was named after William Hogg, a prominent businessman who owned the property in the late 1800s. Hogg was known for his contributions to the community and his philanthropy.

The Hogg Mine is a popular destination for rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts, who come from all over the world to collect specimens from the mine’s rich deposits. The mine is managed by a team of experienced professionals who take great care to ensure visitors’ safety and the site’s preservation.

Where we found amethyst in the Hogg Mine

Amethysts are located at the Hogg Mine in Troup County.

Rabun County

Rabun County is a scenic and historic county in Georgia’s northeast corner. Known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, Rabun County is a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.

Rabun County has a rich history dating back to the 1800s when it was a hub for agriculture and mining. Today, the county has several historic sites and landmarks, including the Foxfire Museum and Heritage Center, which preserves the area’s Appalachian culture and traditions. The county is also abundant in mines where you can find different crystals and rocks.

Where we found amethyst in Rabun County

There is an abundance of amethysts in Rabun County. You can find them in the following places:

• The Wilson Farm in Clayton
• The Smith Mine
• The Black Creek along the Rabun Gap
• At Tallulah River
• At John A. Wilson Prospect
• At the Ledbetter Mine and Prospect
• The mine dumps at Mountain City area
• In North Georgia Company Mine

Other Great Places To Mine For Amethyst in Georgia

Our recommendations by county

We’ve mentioned our best picks for amethyst spots in Georgia, but we can still suggest many more areas. To make things easier, we’ve sorted them by county below.

Common Amethyst-Hunting Questions

It’s important to respond to certain often asked questions about Georgia amethysts, like the following:

Where can you find amethyst geodes in Georgia?

Unfortunately, Georgia doesn’t naturally have amethyst geodes, but there are several rock shops nearby where you might be able to discover them, as well as other gems.

Is it illegal to collect amethyst in Georgia?

Amethyst collecting is permitted in Georgia if you abide by municipal regulations. If you’re on public land, follow all relevant local laws. Make sure you have permission if you’re on private property.

The Best Places To Buy Amethyst In Georgia

Not everyone likes spending hours stumbling through the woods in search of amethysts. Sometimes, all you need for your collection or workplace is something aesthetic and easy to obtain. The following is a list of rock shops where you can easily buy amethyst crystals.

• Crystal Blue – 1168 Euclid Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30307
• Crystal Hound Minerals – 10101 Davis St #100, Braselton, GA 30517
• The Olde Ones – 4086 Covington Hwy Ste 1300, Decatur, GA 30032
• Stoneage Natural Rocks and Crystals – 3333 Buford Dr #1022, Buford, GA 30519
• Wingostarr Jewelry Studio – 10 S Brooks St Suite 2, Cleveland, GA 30528

Additional places to find amethyst in nearby states

If you’ve already tried all of our recommendations above or are planning a trip out of the state you should check out our guides for neighboring states:

• Amethyst in North Carolina
• Amethyst in South Carolina

If you have any recommendations for our list, please leave a comment below!