Finding crystals can be a rewarding adventure, offering a unique way to explore the natural beauty and geology of the region. Whether you’re a seasoned rockhound or just getting started, knowing where to look is key to uncovering these hidden treasures.
In this state, a variety of locations provide opportunities to discover different types of crystals. From rocky outcrops in the mountains to stream beds that carry sparkling surprises, each area offers its own unique finds for those willing to search.
We can help you get started with some places you can explore for crystals below!
Crystals you can find in the US
The United States offers a wide range of crystals that reflect its diverse geology. From vibrant gems to more subtle mineral formations, there’s something to discover in nearly every region.
Calcite
With a variety of forms and a unique property of double refraction, calcite allows objects viewed through the crystal to appear doubled. This mineral can appear in a spectrum of colors, with pure forms typically being transparent or white.
In addition, calcite reacts vigorously with acids, which aids in distinguishing it from other minerals. It also frequently contributes to the structure of sedimentary rocks such as limestone.
Gypsum
Gypsum’s notable softness allows it to be easily scratched with just a fingernail, often presenting as white or very light-colored in its pure form.
It manifests in both crystalline forms, like selenite, and massive forms such as alabaster, making it versatile in use and appearance.
Gypsum is also essential in the construction industry and is a key component in the manufacture of plaster and drywall.
Fluorite
Fluorite comes in a wide range of vibrant colors, including purples, greens, blues, and yellows, and is known for forming in well-defined cubic crystals.
Beyond this, fluorite exhibits fluorescence under ultraviolet light! It can also be used in various industrial applications, including as a flux in steelmaking.
Galena
Galena distinguishes itself with a metallic luster and high density, typically found in a cube-like form. It serves as the primary ore of lead, making it important in the metal industry, while its shiny, silver color attracts collectors.
Not only does its appearance make it a subject of interest, but its weight and texture provide tangible lessons in mineral density and metallic properties. Galena also often contains traces of silver, adding to its commercial and educational value.
Corundum
Corundum is a mineral that comes in a variety of colors, though it is typically transparent or gray. Its most famous forms are sapphires and rubies, which are prized for their vibrant blue and red hues.
The mineral is known for its remarkable hardness, ranking just below diamond on the Mohs scale. This durability makes corundum ideal for industrial abrasives and cutting tools, as well as a popular choice for fine jewelry.
Quartz
Quartz is among the most common minerals in the Earth’s crust and is prized for its durability and variety. It forms in a wide range of colors and types, from clear rock crystal to purple amethyst.
The mineral is notable for its hardness and durability, which contribute to its use in a variety of applications. Quartz is also popular in the manufacturing of electronics and watches due to its piezoelectric properties, which allow it to convert mechanical pressure into electrical energy.
Pyrite
Often mistaken for gold due to its metallic luster and pale brass-yellow hue, pyrite is known colloquially as “fool’s gold.” Its characteristic cube-shaped crystal formations look man-made but are actually completely naturally formed!
Pyrite also has historical importance in producing sulfur dioxide for sulfuric acid production.
Rhodochrosite
Rhodochrosite stands out with its rich pink and red hues, making it highly desirable as both a mineral specimen and a gemstone.
It typically forms in layered or stalactitic structures, with bands of colors that showcase how it grew over millions of years.
Beyond its beauty, rhodochrosite is significant as the main source of manganese, an essential element used in metal alloys.
Rhodonite
Appreciated for its deep pinks and reds, often complemented by black manganese oxide veins, rhodonite presents a dramatic appearance. It is typically found in metamorphic rocks and is used both as an ornamental stone and in jewelry.
In geology, rhodonite is significant for its role in metamorphic processes and its association with other manganese-rich minerals. It can be found in metamorphosed sedimentary rocks and is sometimes used as an indicator of the presence of manganese deposits.
Vivianite
Vivianite, an iron phosphate mineral, emerges in low-oxygen environments like peat bogs or iron-rich deposits. Its striking blue to green color, which can change to a lighter shade over time due to oxidation, makes it a distinctive mineral.
Found in various geological settings, vivianite provides clues about the local conditions and the presence of phosphate deposits.
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.
Rare crystals found in California
- Agate
- Benitoite
- Bloodstone
- Carnelian
- Diamond
- Garnet
- Moonstone
- Prehnite
- Tourmaline
- Turquoise
More common crystals found here
- Serpentine
- Actinolite
- Azurite
- Calaverite
- Citrine
- Epsomite
- Jade
- Jasper
- Laumonite
- Lepidolite
- Lapiz Lazuli
- Nephrite
- Obsidian
- Quartz
- Rhodochrosite
- Rhodonite
What rough crystals look like
When you’re out looking for crystals on your own it’s important to know what you’re looking for. This is what you need to look out for:
Look for exteriors like this
When you’re out searching for crystals in the wild, it’s essential to keep in mind that what you find won’t look like the polished stones you see in stores. One important tip is to consider what certain crystals look like in their raw, natural form.
Without the shine and smooth finish, crystals might appear rough, with jagged edges or earthy tones masking their true beauty. Understanding this can help you spot potential finds that might otherwise be overlooked.
Examine the crystal structure and shape
Crystals often form in specific geometric patterns that can be key to identifying them. For example, quartz is known for its hexagonal prisms, while halite typically forms cubic shapes.
By recognizing these distinct patterns, you can differentiate between various types of crystals and better understand what you’ve found.
Observe color
Some crystals are known for their distinct hues, like the deep purple of amethyst or the vibrant green of emerald. However, not all crystals will have strong colors; some may be clear or only slightly tinted.
Check the luster
Luster refers to how a crystal’s surface interacts with light. Some crystals might have a shiny, glassy luster, while others may appear metallic or dull. This characteristic can help you determine the type of crystal you’ve found.
However, it’s important to remember that luster isn’t always obvious right away. In some cases, a crystal’s true luster will only become apparent after it’s been cleaned or polished, so keep this in mind as you examine your finds.
Evaluate the transparency
Pay close attention to how much light passes through the crystal. Some crystals are completely clear, allowing light to pass through easily, while others may be opaque and block light entirely.
You might also encounter crystals with translucent edges but opaque centers. These variations in transparency can offer valuable clues about the type of crystal you’ve found, making it easier to identify and appreciate your discovery.
A Quick Request About Collecting
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
Tips on where to look
Having a better idea of where to look can greatly narrow down your search and increase your chances of finding crystals. By focusing on environments where crystals are likely to be exposed, you can spend less time searching and more time discovering.
Outcrops and Exposed Rock
Rocky outcrops are prime locations for finding crystals and minerals. Search along the edges of outcrops, particularly where erosion has worn away the surrounding soil, revealing the rock underneath.
Pay close attention to any visible cracks, crevices, or small cavities within the outcrop, as these are often where crystals develop and can be extracted with minimal effort.
Stream Beds and Gravel Deposits
Stream beds are dynamic environments where water flow constantly shapes the landscape. Over time, water can erode rocks upstream, breaking them down and carrying mineral fragments, including crystals, downstream.
When searching in these areas, look for spots where the current has slowed, such as bends in the stream or areas behind large rocks, as these are prime locations for deposits.
Quarries and Mines
Quarries and mines are excellent places to search for crystals because they expose deep layers of rock that would otherwise be hidden beneath the surface. These sites often contain a variety of minerals and crystals that have been brought to the surface during excavation.
Pay attention to tailings piles, where waste rock is discarded, as they often contain overlooked or broken crystals. Always prioritize safety when exploring these areas and ensure that you have permission to search.
Road Cuts and Construction Sites
As roads are cut through hillsides or construction projects dig deep foundations, layers of rock and soil that have been undisturbed for millions of years are suddenly exposed.
Look for freshly exposed rock faces, especially where blasting has occurred, as this can create fissures or expose pockets filled with crystals. Be cautious around active construction sites, and always seek permission before exploring.
Mountainous Areas
In mountainous regions, erosion caused by wind, rain, and ice can wear away the softer rock, exposing harder crystals that have formed within. Focus on weathered and broken rock formations.
Look for scree slopes, where loose rock has accumulated at the base of cliffs. Additionally, areas near fault lines or volcanic vents are particularly promising, as they often have a higher concentration of minerals.
The tools every crystal hunter will need
When you're out looking for crystals having the right tools for the job is very important. 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 crystal miners which we outline in great detail in our complete rockhounding equipment 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 crystal-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
Southeast Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Southeastern 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.
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 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 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.
The tools every crystal hunter will need
When you're out looking for crystals having the right tools for the job is very important. 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 crystal miners which we outline in great detail in our complete rockhounding tools 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 crystal-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
Southwest Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Southwestern 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 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 |
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!
