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 Minnesota Crystals You Can Find

Minnesota is undoubtedly rich in breathtaking crystal formations, which you can find in plenty different sites here. Overall, the variety and beauty of crystals in our state make it an exciting destination for crystal enthusiasts and collectors alike. Here’s a list of the different ones that you can find here:

Rare crystals found in Minnesota

• Agate (Lake Superior)
• Garnet

More common crystals found here

• Calcite
• Chalcedony
• Chalcopyrite
• Galena
• Hematite
• Jasper
• Pyrite
• Quartz

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

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.

Minnesota Crystal Mining Laws And Regulations

Mining crystals in Minnesota is legal for as long as you abide by the local laws here, especially the ones from Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Firstly, make sure to secure any necessary permits or permissions from concerned government offices.

If you’re exploring a private land, you’re required to secure the owner’s permission before you proceed.

Also, make sure you know all about any environmental rules and regulations. After all, we would want to make sure that crystal mining remains a sustainable activity in our state for years to come.

The Best Locations For Crystal Mining in Minnesota

We’ll share first with you our top 5 recommended places, in case you only have limited time to visit our state. We had the best time and success finding crystals here:

Lake Superior Beaches is Our Favorite Crystal Mine in Minnesota

Lake Superior, MN

As experienced crystal collectors from Minnesota, we highly recommend visiting the beaches of Lake Superior, a treasure trove of beautiful and unique crystals! In fact, if you want to expand your search to include gemstones, these locations also prove to be one of the best sites to find Minnesota gems.

The Lake Superior region has a rich geological history dating back over a billion years, and this has created a diverse range of crystal formations that can be found on its beaches. The rocks here are a mix of basalt, sandstone, and conglomerates, with mineral deposits that are just waiting to be discovered.

One of the best things about Lake Superior’s beaches is that they are accessible to anyone. The region has a number of public beaches that you can visit, and some of the best ones for finding crystals include Agate Beach in Two Harbors, Park Point in Duluth, and Grand Marais Beach in Grand Marais. These beaches are all located on the shores of Lake Superior and offer ample opportunities for crystal hunting.

Where we found crystals at Lake Superior Beaches

You can find the most amazing samples of Lake Superior Agates in the area gravels of Lake Superior Beaches.

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 supplies 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 

Northwest Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide 

Earth Treasures: The Northwestern 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.

Carlton County

Carlton County, MN

Carlton County is located in the northeastern part of our state.This is among our top recommended places because the region’s diverse geological formations, including basalt, gabbro, and sandstone, have created a variety of crystal deposits that can be found throughout the area.

If you’re planning to go here, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, be respectful of the natural environment and only take what you need. Second, make sure you have the right gear, including a sturdy bag or bucket for collecting, gloves for handling rough rocks, and a good pair of shoes for walking on the rocky beaches. Finally, be prepared to spend some time searching, as finding crystals here can take some patience and persistence.

Where we found crystals in Carlton County

Carlton County has plenty specific sites where you can chance upon beautiful crystals, like Lake Superior Agate, Garnet, Pyrite, and so much more. Here’s where you can look into for these wonders:

• Twin Lakes Township Quarry in Blackhoof area
• Carlton area mine dumps
• Carter Gravel Pit
• Cloquet area gravel pits, excavations, and mine dumps
• Along the shores of Moose Lake and other lakes and streams nearby
• Moose Lake area mine dumps

Once you find a specimen, you’ll start wondering how much are crystals worth. We’ve got you covered!

Little Falls

Morrison County, MN

Another great spot you’ll definitely want to check out is Little Falls located in central Minnesota. It’s home to a long history of glacial activity. The area is characterized by rolling hills and valleys, which are formed by the movement of glaciers over millions of years. This movement has also created a variety of rock formations, including basalt and sandstone, which are the perfect environments for crystals to form.

When you’re here, you can visit Hard-Rock Quarry, which is known for producing a variety of crystals. The quarry is open to the public and is a popular spot for rockhounds looking for unique and beautiful specimens. Another great spot to find crystals is at the Pine Grove Park, which hides crystals along its riverbank and in the surrounding woods.

To visit Little Falls, you can take Highway 10 and exit at the Little Falls exit. From there, follow the signs to where you want to start your search.

Where we found crystals in Little Falls

We had the best of time— and success— finding crystals here when we explored the streams, gravels, and quarries of Little Falls. Some of the crystals you’ll find here are Lake Superior Agate and Garnet.

Osseo

Hennepin County, MN

Osseo is a small city located in the southeastern part of our state. The area has a rich history of mining and quarrying, which has resulted in a unique landscape and a variety of mineral formations. The rocks in this area are primarily sedimentary, with layers of sandstone, shale, and limestone that have been shaped by the forces of erosion and weathering.

A great place to find crystals in Osseo is at the Cedar Valley Quarry, which is known for producing a variety of crystals. Another one is the Crystal Mine, located on a private property and requires permission from the landowner to access.

If you’re eyeing to visit Osseo, you can take Highway 169 and exit at the Osseo exit. From there, follow the signs to the place that you specifically want to visit.

Where we found crystals at Ossea

You can explore the area gravel pits of Ossea to find Lake Superior Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper, and other different kinds of crystals.

Bronk Quarry

Winona County, MN

The Bronk Quarry is located in the city of Caledonia in southeastern part of our state. It’s situated in the bluffs above the Root River, which has been eroding the limestone formations in the area for millions of years. This has created a variety of rock formations, including the distinctive Niagara Escarpment, which is known for its unique geology and crystal formations.

The quarry was first opened in the early 1900s for the production of crushed limestone. Over the years, rockhounds and collectors have discovered the unique crystals and minerals that can be found in the area. Today, it’s owned by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and is open to the public for collecting.

To get to Bronk Quarry, you can take Highway 44 and turn onto Old Mill Road. Follow Old Mill Road until you reach the quarry entrance. The quarry is open from dawn to dusk, and there is no fee for collecting.

Where we found crystals in Bronk Quarry

Since this is a quarry, it’ll be easy to find different samples of Dog Tooth Calcite, Hematite, Pyrite, and other crystals if you explore its nooks and crannies.

Our Other Favorite Places For Crystal Hunting

Aside from our top 5 recommendations, there are still other great places where you can find crystals here. In fact, some of these sites may also be abundant sources of Minnesota geodes.

Where you can find crystals for free in Minnesota

Who doesn’t want to find crystals for free, right? If you agree, we got you! Here are the best free-to-search places in our state.

Other great places to dig for crystals

On the other hand, if you don’t mind spending some dime for sure crystal finds, here are the best pay-to-dig spots here. Take note, the fees may vary depending on season and time, so reach out to the place first before heading out. Who knows, they might even be offering free digging on your time of visit!

The Best Crystal Shops In Minnesota

Doing the physical work of searching and digging for crystals may not be for every collector and enthusiast, so if you prefer to get your hands on these natural wonders the easier way, your best bet is to visit the local crystals shops here. We’ve made a list of the best ones below:

• Enchanted Rock Garden – 1228 E 66th St, Richfield, MN 55423
• ZRS Fossils and Gifts – 3018 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408
• Christy’s Crystals – 407 N Riverfront Dr, Mankato, MN 56001
• Enchanted Boutique – 8 W 66th St, Richfield, MN 55423
• The Eye – 908 W Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55408
• Divine Time – 7546 149th St W, Apple Valley, MN 55124
• Crystal Zones Rock Shop – 1595 MN-36 #662, Roseville, MN 55113
• We The Star Borne – 593 Hamline Ave N, St Paul, MN 55104
• Magic Mushrooms in the Crystal Garden – 171 Lake St N, Big Lake, MN 55309
• Seashellsbyshelly Rock and Crystal Shop – 2625 County Rd 37 NE, Monticello, MN 55362

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:

• Crystals in North Dakota
• Crystals in South Dakota
• Crystals in Iowa
• Crystals in Wisconsin
• Crystals in Michigan

If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered, please leave them in the comments below!