Tucked between deserts, mountains, and forests, crystals in California have drawn collectors for decades. The state’s size and variety mean countless environments where minerals quietly wait to be uncovered.
Each region holds its own kind of beauty, and part of the fun is learning how different landscapes reveal different crystal types. Sometimes, the best clues are in places most people would overlook entirely.
The key to finding these crystals lies in observation and curiosity, not luck. You begin to see patterns in how nature arranges these treasures once you slow down and look closely.
When you know where to start, your search becomes more so much more productive. A little direction can turn an afternoon outside into the start of an impressive collection.
- The extensive local experience and understanding of our team
- Input from multiple local crystal hunters and crystal collecting groups
- The accessibility of the crystal mining locations
- Safety and potential hazards when collecting
- Private and public locations
- A desire to include locations for both experienced crystal hunters and those who are just starting out
Using these weights we think we’ve put together the best list out there for those who love finding new crystals for our collections!
The Types of California Crystals You Can Find
California has one of the most diverse geologies of any state. Being a huge state certainly helps but there is also a large range of geological environments below the surface here.
Compared to states in the southeast (like Alabama) which are pretty boring when it comes to crystals we are truly blessed.
Crystals are like nature’s little works of art. Solid materials with atoms, ions, or molecules arranged in a highly ordered pattern give them that unique, eye-catching look.
It’s no wonder people are drawn to them!
These gems are more than just pretty faces. They have some truly fascinating properties that make them real standouts in science. They also have this nifty ability to split light into a spectrum of colors – talk about putting on a show!
Benitoite
Benitoite is a rare and beautiful gemstone that is known for its beautiful blue color and high level of brilliance. It’s a mineral made up of barium, titanium, and silicate. It was first found in California, which makes it the official state gem.
Benitoite got its name from the county in California where it was first found, San Benito. The gem is found in serpentinite rocks and is often found near natrolite and neptunite veins.
Its beautiful blue color comes from the tiny amounts of titanium and other elements in its crystal structure. The color of the gem can be anywhere from light blue to deep indigo, just like sapphires.
As the state gem of California, it has special meaning for the area because it represents the state’s natural treasures. The gemstone is hard to find and doesn’t happen very often, which makes it a valuable item for collectors and a sought-after gem in the jewelry market.
Benitoite’s unique blue color and amazing brilliance give it a sense of wonder and elegance. This makes it a mineral and gemologist favorite that will always be interesting and valuable.
Where you can find Benitoite in California
You can find unique specimens of benitoite at the Benitoite Mining Company, among many places.
Beryl
Beryl is celebrated for its wide range of colors and exceptional transparency. It’s a beryllium aluminum silicate mineral that forms in pegmatite veins and granite rocks when hot mineral-rich fluids mix with the stones, creating the conditions for crystals to grow.
What makes it stand out is that it can be different colors when different trace elements are present. It can be green, blue, or pink, like emerald, aquamarine, or morganite.
Its crystals can also grow very big, making them a popular material for beautiful gemstones and decorative pieces. This gemstone is one of the hardest, which makes it good for jewelry that you can wear every day.
Beryl’s clarity and range of colors make it a favorite among gem lovers, and it can be used in various styles and designs. Each type also has a different meaning. Emerald represents growth and renewal, aquamarine represents peace and communication, and morganite represents love and kindness
Where you can find Beryl in California
Beryl is easy to find in California, specifically in these locations:
- Cahuilla Mountains
- Hatfield Creek
- Oceanview and Pala Chief Gem Mines
- Ware Mine
Kunzite
Kunzite is a beautiful gemstone known for its soft pastel colors and transparency. It’s a type of spodumene, a lithium aluminum silicate mineral. Traces of manganese and other elements give it a soft pink to lilac color.
It’s made when hot mineral-rich fluids flow through granite pegmatite veins and mix with the rocks around them. This makes the perfect environment for spodumene crystals to grow.
Once made, its crystalline structure lets light pass through with exceptional clarity. This allows the colors to shine through mesmerizingly, catching the attention of gem lovers everywhere.
Kunzite is thought to have calming and healing properties that help keep emotions in check and make people feel more love and compassion. Some cultures believe it is related to the heart chakra and use it to strengthen emotional bonds and encourage self-love.
The fact that it is connected to water adds to its spiritual meaning, making it a popular gemstone for people who want peace and harmony. Its delicate beauty, reputed magical properties, and rarity make kunzite a valuable mineral and gem.
Where you can find Kunzite in California
Kunzite can be found in these areas in California:
- Oceanview Mine
- Tourmaline Queen Montain
Lepidolite
Lepidolite is known for its lilac, soft pink tones and connection with emotional healing and peace. It’s a secondary mineral that forms in the veins of granite pegmatite. It’s a mica mineral that’s high in lithium.
Manganese and other trace elements in the crystal lattice of lepidolite are responsible for its beautiful color. It’s a type of mica with a sheet-like structure that shims when light hits its surface.
Lepidolite is very valuable because it is thought to have healing properties and has metaphysical properties. It’s believed to bring emotional balance and help with stress, anxiety, and other problems.
People believe that it can help them feel calm and relaxed. This makes it a popular gemstone for people who want to calm their minds and find inner peace. It’s also linked to the heart chakra, which helps people feel more love and compassion for themselves and others.
Where you can find Lepidolite in California
Check out the following places to find unique pieces of lepidolite:
- Himalaya Tourmaline Mine
- Victor Mine
- Ware Mine
Morganite
Morganite is known for its soft pink to peachy colors and stunning shine. It’s a type of mineral beryl related to emerald and aquamarine. Its beautiful color comes from traces of manganese in its crystal structure.
It forms in pegmatite veins and granite rocks, where hot mineral-rich fluids mix with the surrounding stones, creating the conditions for beryl crystals to grow. The soft pink colors of the gem make people think of romance and tenderness, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other sentimental jewelry pieces.
The Rose beryl is a kind of morganite usually found in pegmatite rocks. Its delicate coloration and exceptional clarity make it highly sought after by gem collectors and jewelry designers.
People also think that the gem makes people more creative and helps them feel calm and peaceful. Because of its beautiful color and the belief that it can heal, morganite is a highly valued gemstone in the world of minerals and gemology. Its soft beauty has won the hearts of many.
Where you can find Morganite in California
You can locate morganite in the following areas:
- Himalaya Tourmaline Mine
- Lake Henshaw
Morganite is often mistaken for similar rocks and minerals, so to help you through this, here are some guides to help you tell it apart from others:
Pyrite
Pyrite is a fascinating mineral that looks like real gold and has a metallic shine and brassy yellow color. It’s a mineral of iron sulfide that can form in several geological settings, including hydrothermal veins, metamorphic rocks, and sedimentary deposits.
It’s made when high-temperature fluids mix with sulfur and iron and causes them to crystallize into complex cubic or pyritohedral shapes. Even though pyrite looks like gold, it’s not. It has been mistaken for gold throughout history, which is why it’s called “fool’s gold.”
Because of its high sulfur content, you can find sulfur-rich pyrites in California, which feature bright yellow to golden hues. This type of pyrite is often found in hydrothermal veins and is valued for its vibrant coloration and impressive crystal formation.
In the industrial world, pyrite is used to make sulfuric acid and as a source of sulfur in many manufacturing processes. It’s thought to help with grounding, protection, and abundance in metaphysics.
People think of it as a stone of confidence and prosperity that allows people to have a positive outlook and work hard to reach their goals.
Where you can find Pyrite in California
It’s not hard to find pyrite in California, especially in these locations:
- Golden Jubilee Mine
- Sue-Meg State Park
Quartz
Quartz is a common mineral that can be used in many ways and comes in a wide range of colors and crystal shapes. It’s made up of atoms of silicon and oxygen that are arranged in a continuous framework, giving it exceptional hardness and durability.
It can form in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocls, among other geological places. It’s often made when hot mineral-rich fluids mix with the rocks around them. This leads to the slow crystallization of quartz in cracks and cavities.
The different colors like clear, smoky, rose, and amethyst, come from trace elements that were in the rock when it was made. Both smoky quartz and clear quartz are common in the state of California.
Quartz is highly valued because it can be used in different ways. This makes it one of the minerals that is used the most in many different fields. It’s not only a known gem, but it’s also an important part of making glass, ceramics, and electronics.
Across cultures, it’s considered as a stone of energy and balance. It’s thought to help with spiritual growth and bring clarity and focus. It can make intentions strongers and can be used in meditation and healing.
Where you can find Quartz in California
To find unique specimens of quartz, you can explore the places listed below:
- Feather River
- Lime Kiln Creek
- Little Acorn Mine
- Opal Hill Mine
- Slickrock Canyon
Aquamarine
Aquamarine has soothing blue colors that remind people of the calm water of the ocean. It’s a type of mineral beryl related to emeralds. Its beautiful blue color comes from traces of iron in its crystal structure.
It forms in pegmatite veins and cavities in granitic rocks, where hot mineral-rich fluids mix with the minerals around them, making the perfect environment for beryl crystals to grow.
The gemstone has soft blue colors that range from pale sky blue to bright aqua. Both people who like gems and people who want jewelry are drawn to it. Ancient cultures believed it to be a stone of courage and protection, especially for travelers and sailors, offering safety during journeys over water.
Aquamarine is also associated with emotional healing and clarity, inspiring calmness, peace, and harmony. Its association with the water element further enhances its metaphysical properties, making it a favored gemstone among those seeking balance and tranquility.
If you want to know how much aquamarines are worth, check out our article.
Where you can find Aquamarine in California
Aquamarine can be found all over California, especially in the following places:
- Cahuilla Mt.
- Lake Henshaw
- Williamson Mine
- Tourmaline Queen Mountain
If you’re having a hard time distinguishing aquamarine from other rocks and minerals, refer to the guides below:
Diamond
Diamond, the king of gemstones, has captured people’s hearts for hundreds of years with its incredible shine and beauty. It’s a valuable gem made of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice, which gives it a hardness and brilliance that are hard to beat.
Deep in the Earth’s mantle, carbon-rich materials go through a process that take billions of years and a lot of pressure and heat. The result is a beautiful gem called a diamond. When diamonds are made, volcanic eruptions send them to the surface of the Earth, where they can be found in kimberlite pipes and alluvial deposits.
In the 19th century, diamonds were found in the state in the area of Oroville, which is why the state is known for that. Most of these diamonds were alluvial, meaning water carried them from their source rocks to their present locations.
Their high value comes from how rare they are and their timeless beauty. This makes them a status symbol and a treasure that will be passed down from generation to generation.
Diamonds are the most valuable and fascinating gemstones because of how they were formed in the earth, how beautiful they are, and what they mean to different cultures.
Where you can find Diamond in California
You can find Diamonds all around California, particularly in these places:
- Jackson’s Gulch
- Thompson’s Flat
- Yankee Hill
Garnet
Garnet has a wide range of colors valued throughout history for its charm and versatility. It’s a group of silicate minerals with the same crystal structure but different chemical compositions.
This gives them a beautiful range of colors, including deep reds, bright oranges, striking greens, and mesmerizing purples. Garnets can form in many types of rocks, such as metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous.
When minerals high in aluminum and silica come into contact with other elements, they change into garnets, which are beautiful gemstones. The name of this gem is thought to come from the Latin word “granatum,” which means “pomegranate,” because it looks like the fruit’s bright red seeds.
They are appealing for more than just how they look. It’s valued for what it can do for you and what it means in history. Garnets are thought to increase passion, creativity, and emotional balance in many cultures. People think of them as protective stones that stand for love and loyalty.
It has been used in jewelry and artifacts for a long time, from ancient Egyptian amulets to royal regalia from the Middle Ages. This shows garnet’s lasting value and cultural significance.
Where you can find Garnet in California
Garnets are abundant in California, especially in the places listed below:
- Santa Rite Peak
- San Carlos Mine
- Shady Run
- Slick Rock Canyon
- Traverse Creek
Rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite is known for its bright pink to red colors and exciting patterns. A manganese carbonate mineral forms when hot, mineral-rich fluids mix with other rocks and minerals in hydrothermal veins.
Manganese gives rhodochrosite its bright colors, ranging from soft pastel pinks to deep ruby reds. These colors make you think of roses in bloom and romantic sunsets. This is often used in jewelry decorations because it looks shiny and has a pretty color.
Besides its beauty, rhodochrosite has essential cultural and spiritual meanings. Ancient people thought it was a stone of love and compassion that helped heal emotions and made people more empathetic.
Some cultures think it relates to the heart chakra, which helps keep relationships in harmony and balance. It’s also considered a stone of happiness and positivity that helps people feel good about themselves.
This gemstone has a lasting value and appeal in the world of minerals and gemology because of its beauty and the way it can be used to heal.
Don’t let the confusion overwhelm you! Our handy guides are here to assist you in distinguishing rhodochrosite from other rocks and minerals, ensuring you never make a mistaken identification again:
Where you can find Rhodochrosite in California
You can find many different rhodochrosite specimens at the Woods Mine in Humboldt County.
Tourmaline
Tourmaline is known for its striking range of colors. This makes it a favorite among gem collectors and people who like to look at stones. It’s a boron silicate mineral that forms in pegmatite veins where hot fluids full of minerals mix with the rocks around them, making the right conditions for tourmaline to crystallize.
It’s distinct from other stones because it has pleochroism, which means that it looks different from all angles. This natural kaleidoscope of colors has lush greens, electric blues, and even colors that look like watermelon slices.
This delicate and girly gemstone has beautiful shades of pink, from light pastels to deep magenta, which resembles flowers in bloom. California is also home to the colorful Watermelon Tourmaline, which looks like the fruit because it’s green on the outside and pink in the middle.
It’s thought to have many healing properties, such as balancing emotions, boosting creativity, and building self-confidence. Some cultures believe tourmaline can protect against harmful energies and keep you grounded.
Where you can find Tourmaline in California
In California, there are a lot of tourmalines, particularly in these areas:
- Benitoite Mining Company
- Hatfield Creek
- Lake Henshaw
- Tourmaline Queen Mountain
Amethyst
Amethyst is a purple gemstone that has been loved for centuries for its beauty and what people think is its magical powers. It’s a type of quartz, and the purple color comes from tiny amounts of iron in its crystal structure.
It’s made when hot mineral-rich fluid flow through hydrothermal veins and mixes with the rocks around them. This creates the perfect environment for quartz crystals to grow. Its purple color can range from lilac to a deep royal purple, which makes you think of royalty and spiritual enlightenment.
Throughout history, it has been highly valued for what are thought to be its magical properties. Ancient people thought it was a protective stone that kept away bad energies and helped them feel calm and peaceful.
Some people think of amethyst as a sign of spiritual wisdom and insight, and they use it in meditation to improve their intuition and sense of connection to higher realms. Its historical value as a stone of sobriety and clarity adds to its worth.
Whether loved for its stunning color or spiritual properties, amethyst will always be a fascinating and valuable gemstone in the world of minerals and gemology.
Where you can find Amethyst in California
We’ve created a complete guide on where to find amethysts in California. Once you’ve been to those places, you can also try finding them in these areas:
- Crystal Ridge
- Escondido Canyon
- Shelter Cove
Chrysocolla
Chrysocolla is a beautiful gemstone; how it was made is just as interesting as how it looks. It’s a mineral of hydrated copper silicate that often forms in the oxidized parts of copper deposits, where copper-rich solutions mix with other minerals and rock formations.
This beautiful specimen comes in many bright colors, such as mesmerizing blues, greens, and turquoise. It often has gorgeous patterns and swirls that look like the way calm lakes and rivers flow.
In California’s geology, which is very different from place to place, you can find different kinds of chrysocolla. The state is known for its deep blue colors and sometimes has sparkling bits of quartz or other minerals mixed in with it.
Ancient people worshipped it because they thought it had magical powers and could help them feel calm and wise. Even today, it’s a stone of communication and expression that helps people express their thoughts and feelings clearly.
Where you can find Chrysocolla in California
Chrysocolla specimens are found at the Blue Bell Mine in San Bernardino County.
Malachite
Malachite is a green gemstone with a long history that has fascinated people for thousands of years. It’s a mineral made of copper carbonate and hydroxide. It comes from the weathering of copper ores.
It stands out because of the swirling patterns and bright shades of green that make it look like a lush forest and the beauty of nature. The name “malachite” comes from the Greek word “malakos,” which means “soft.” This refers to the stone’s low hardness, which lets skilled artists carve intricate sculptures and jewelry.
Beyond its eye-catching beauty, malachite is highly valued for its historical and metaphysical significance. The ancient Egyptians used it as a decorative stone and bright green paint pigment.
In many cultures, it is thought to be protective and healing, able to take in negative energies and help people feel more balanced. Its connection to the Earth element adds to its grounding qualities, making it a popular gemstone among crystal lovers.
Where you can find Malachite in California
There are many malachite specimens in California, including the following places:
- Blue Bell Mine
- Copper Prince Mine
- Hughes Mine
- Pocahontas Mine
The Best Locations For Crystal Mining in California
If you visit only a handful of places, it should be there. We’ve seen the best success at these spots and think you will.
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
The Oceanview Mine is Our Favorite Crystal Mine in California
37304 Magee Rd, Pala, CA 92059
The Oceanview Mine in San Diego county has become our favorite place to mine for crystals. This location has been mined for over 100 years, and it’s produced various minerals and gems. In the 1960s, the mine shifted its focus to the world of gemstones, and it’s been a top destination for rockhounds ever since. This is also one of the better places to find gems in California.
The geography of the Oceanview Mine is unique and plays a huge role in the types of crystals you’ll find there. The mine is in the Pala Mining District, known for its rich mineral deposits. The area is also home to various rock formations, including pegmatites, one of the best sources of gem-quality minerals.
Regarding geology, it’s situated on a hillside comprising various rock layers containing various minerals, including tourmaline, kunzite, and morganite, all popular with crystal collectors. The mine is one of the only places in the world where you can find certain types of tourmaline, including a rare green and pink variety.
The mine offers a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else. You can take a tour of the mine and participate in the mining process, which means you have the opportunity to find some incredible crystals yourself.
The mine is known for producing high-quality gemstones, so if you’re looking for something truly special, this is the place to be.
Now, you should remember that there are times when can be very easy to confuse some of the more common crystals that are found here. That’s why we created a few guides to telling them apart:
Where we found crystals at the Oceanview Mine
We had the best luck going through the mine dumps and using the available sluices. You can find out how much crystals are worth by visiting our detailed guide.
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The North Feather River
The Feather River has been mined for gold for centuries but is home to various minerals and crystals. It’s probably the best place in the state to find huge and highly translucent Vesuvianite.
The river flows through the Sierra Nevada mountain range, known for its rich mineral deposits, and is also home to various rock formations, including granite, schist, and gneiss, all of which can contain crystals.
When it comes to geology, the Feather River is situated in a fault zone, which means that there are areas where rocks have been shifted and fractured, creating pockets where minerals and crystals can be found. The river’s fast-moving water can also help uncover crystals and minerals buried in the sediment.
The river has minerals and crystals, including quartz, garnet, tourmaline, and beautiful vesuvianites. It’s also easy to get to, making it an even better option.
Where we found crystals around the Feather River
We had the best luck finding big vesuvianites along the west shore of the river’s north fork. There are also quite a few bends, banks, and shallows that make great places to dig.
Riverside County
The Riverside area has been mined for minerals and gems for centuries, and it’s known for producing a wide variety of crystals, including quartz, garnet, and tourmaline. The county has also been an important location for gold mining in California, and many miners found valuable gems and minerals while panning for gold.
The county is in Southern California and has various rock formations, including granite, gneiss, and schist. These rocks contain a wide variety of minerals and crystals, and they’re often found in pockets and veins that have been created by geological activity over millions of years.
Regarding geology, Riverside County is situated on a series of fault zones, which have created pockets and veins where minerals and crystals can be found. The area is also home to various rock formations, including pegmatites and skarns, known for producing gem-quality minerals.
There are quite a few abandoned and active mines and quarries in the area, which can make finding crystals much easier.
Where we found crystals in Riverside
There are a lot of great options here. For starters, try out:
- The Williamson Mine near Cahuilla Mountain for aquamarine, rose quartz, smokey quartz, and tourmaline
- Hills and gravel pits around Desert Center for big agates
- The Storm Jade Mine for agates, jade, and vesuvianite
- The Crestmore Quarry for really nice blue calcite crystals
- The Jensen Quarry for some beautiful pink and red tourmaline crystals
Benitoite Mining Company
48242 Los Gatos Creek Rd, Coalinga, CA 93210
The Benitoite Mining Company is known for its namesake mineral, benitoite, which was discovered in the area in the early 1900s. The mineral is extremely rare, and the Benitoite Mining Company is the only place to find gem-quality benitoite specimens.
The mine is in San Benito County, California, and is known for its unique geology and mineral deposits. The area is home to a variety of different rock formations, including serpentinite, which is where benitoite is found.
The mine offers a unique and exciting experience, with opportunities to dig for your crystals and explore the underground workings of the mine.
Where we found crystals at The Benitoite Mining Company
The mine allows visitors to dig and pick their crystals. For the fee you pay, you can take home up to a quart-sized bag of specimens that you find if you want to take home larger or more crystals, that’s also negotiable.
Crystal Peak
If you want to find crystals in Northern California, the best option is Crystal peak, about 3 miles northeast of the Sardine Valley and about 16 miles northwest of Reno.
This area has been a popular spot for rockhounds for decades, and it’s known for producing a wide variety of crystals, including quartz, amethyst, and citrine. The peak is in the San Gabriel Mountains, known for its unique geology and mineral deposits.
The peak is located at an elevation of over 5,500 feet and on a series of granite formations formed over millions of years. The granite contains a wide variety of minerals and crystals, and they’re often found in pockets and veins that have been created by geological activity over time.
Where we found crystals at Crystal Peak
We had the best luck during the weekdays when it was less busy. Keep a sharp eye out, and don’t be afraid to dig around!
Our Other Favorite Places For Crystal Hunting
Now that we’ve shared our top five places for crystal hunting, we wanted to give you more options. With a state as big as ours, especially with such geological diversity, there are a lot of great places to look for crystals and find California geodes. Here are more options worth checking out:
Where you can find crystals for free in California
First, let’s talk about some of the free-to-search places. Many of the best options will cost you some money to dig, but there are still some worth checking out that won’t cost you a cent.
| County | Location |
| Amador | The volcano area around Jackass Gulch for diamonds |
| Butte | Yankee Hill around Banngor for diamonds |
| Calaveras | Above the Moore Creek and Mokelumne River for epidote, garnet, and quartz |
| Colusa | In the Stonyford Creek gravels for jade, jasper, and serpentine |
| Contra Costa | In Berkeley Hills and in Moraga formation for chalcedony |
| El Dorado | At the Traverse Creek area at Georgetown for garnet |
| Fresno | Grub Bulch and Watts Valley for epidote, garnet, and serpentine |
| Humboldt | St. Patrick’s Point and all beaches for agate and jasper |
| Humboldt | Willow Creek for parallels river for jade |
| Imperial | Palo Verde Pass and Hauser Geode Beds for agate, carnelian, and jasper |
| Inyo | The Last Chance Range at Big Pine for turquoise |
| Kern | Greenhorn Mountains gravel road for epidote, quartz, smoky quartz |
| Kern | Many prospects at Gem Hill and Cache Creek Canyon for agate, chalcedony, and jasper |
| Los Angeles | Agua Dulce Canyon and Mint Canyon for agate, bloodstone, chalcedony, and jasper |
| Madera | Masa Hill for jade and serpentine |
| Mariposa | David Gulch and Flyaway Gulch for jade |
| Modoc | Glass Mountain for obsidian |
| Mono | Green creek for massive epidote and lazulite |
| Monterey | In stream gravels at Big Sur between Point Sur and Salmon Creek for jade and serpentine |
| Nevada | Sailor Flat for agate, chalcedony, and jasper |
| Placer | Shady Run for garnet and serpentine |
| Plumas | Rich Bar on Indian Creek for tremolite |
| Plumas | In area gravels and deposits of Genessee Valley for rhodonite |
| San Bernardino | Amboy Crater and Bristol Dry Lake for celestite, jasper, and obsidian |
Crystal identification can be a puzzle, but we have the pieces to help you solve it. Our informative guides break down the key characteristics of commonly mixed-up crystals, making it simple to tell them apart:
- Differences between Jade and Emerald
- Differences between Rhodonite and Rhodochrosite
- Differences between Carnelian and Red Agate
Other great places to dig for crystals
If you’re open to possibly paying a bit to find crystals, these are the additional spots to consider. How much they change depends on the season (sometimes it can be free, too), so make sure to reach out and contact them before heading out.
| County | Location |
| Alameda | The Alma Mine around Freemont for Melanterite |
| Alpine | The Morningstar Mine around Markleeville for Enargite |
| Calaveras | Hughs Mine for azurite and malachite |
| Calaveras | The Melones Mine and Stanislaus around Angels Camp for calaverite and sylvanite |
| Colusa | Manzanita Mine for calcite and chalcopyrite |
| Fresno | Copper King Mine abundant in chalcopyrite |
| Henry | Keokuk Geode Beds |
| Humboldt | Woods Mine for rhodochrosite |
| Imperial | Silver Mom Mines on east flanks of the Chocolate Mountains for opal and turquoise |
| Inyo | San Carlos Mine for garnet, lapiz lazuli, and opal |
| Kern | Aldridge Mine and Greenback Mine for azurite and epidote |
| Madera | Star Mine for large cubes of galena |
| Modoc | Rainbow Mine for obsidian |
| Napa | Copper Prince Mine for azurite and malachite |
| Placer | Alabama Mine for galena |
| Plumas | Pocahontas Mine and Laura Quartz Mine for malachite, opal, and rhodonite |
| San Bernardino | Blue Bell Mine is abundant in chrysocolla and malachite |
How to find crystals in California
Many of the recommendations above are for some fairly large areas. To help you narrow down where you will be hunting, there are more specific recommendations on where to spend most of your time in a particular area. When it comes to finding crystals, some of the best places to search include:
Washes and ravines
Washes and ravines are formed by the natural movement of water over time, exposing various rocks and minerals, including crystals. The crystal formations in these areas are often unique and different from what you might find in other types of terrain.
Take your time and carefully examine the surrounding area for any exposed rocks or crystals. Look for areas where the terrain changes, such as where the soil is rocky, or there are small boulders.
Be patient and take your time. The best crystals are often hidden deep inside rocks, so finding them may take some time. Remember to respect the environment and follow any rules or regulations. Leave no trace and avoid damaging any natural features.
Mines and mine dumps
Searching for crystals in mines and mine dumps offers a unique and exciting opportunity for amateur and professional mineral enthusiasts. Mines and mine dumps are essentially treasure troves for crystal hunters, as these locations are rich in minerals and crystals, including quartz, amethyst, fluorite, and many more. Mining operations often involve the extraction of valuable minerals from deep within the earth, exposing a plethora of hidden gems in the process.
One reason mines and mine dumps are ideal for crystal hunting is the abundance of exposed mineral veins, making it easier to locate and collect specimens. These sites have already been explored and excavated, increasing the chances of finding unique and high-quality crystals. Moreover, the discarded rocks in mine dumps may contain overlooked treasures, making them an attractive location for persistent seekers.
Streams and creeks
Streams and creeks offer nature lovers and mineral collectors an enjoyable and rewarding experience. These aquatic environments provide a natural habitat for various crystals as water flows through rock formations and mineral deposits, gradually eroding and releasing crystals into the streambed. Over time, these gemstones are carried downstream, found in gravel beds, or trapped in crevices along the watercourse.
One advantage of searching for crystals in streams and creeks is the accessibility of these locations. Many beautiful specimens can be discovered without specialized equipment or extensive digging. Additionally, the water’s natural sorting and tumbling action often polish the crystals, giving them a smooth and attractive appearance.
California Crystal Mining Laws And Regulations
Crystal mining is legal in California, but it’s important always to follow all state and local laws, especially those from the California Department of Parks and Recreation which regulates the collection of crystals on public lands. This includes obtaining any necessary permits or permissions from the landowner or government agency responsible for the area you plan to mine. There may also be regulations or restrictions to protect the environment and wildlife in the area. By respecting these laws, you can help ensure crystal mining remains legal and sustainable for years.
The Best Crystal Shops In California
There are so many different types of crystals in the state spread out over such a wide area that many of us like to spend a little money to round out our collections. These are the best crystal shops in California that we’ve found if you’re looking for rare and beautiful pieces for your collection:
- Aquarian Era – 2803 Main Ave Suite A, Concord, CA 94519
- Briella Crystals – 6250 CA-27 #1555, Woodland Hills, CA 91367
- California Gemstones – 5500 Grossmont Center Dr. Unit B2-56, La Mesa, CA 91942
- Creative Healing Center and Crystal Boutique – 1601 Railroad Ave Suite F, Livermore, CA 94550
- Crystal Way – 2335 Market St, San Francisco, CA 94114
- Dynamic Energy Crystals – 21 Princess St, Sausalito, CA 94965
- Healing Stones – 2793 Castro Valley Blvd, Castro Valley, CA 94546
- House of Sacred Harmony – 1918 N Texas St, Fairfield, CA 94533
- Moonstone Metaphysical – 130 N Santa Cruz Ave, Los Gatos, CA 95030
- Queen Hippie Gypsy – 337 14th St, Oakland, CA 94612
Additional places to find crystals 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:
If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered please leave them in the comments below!
