Rhode Island is a small but mighty state and is a hidden gem for collectors and enthusiasts, offering an incredible variety of beautiful and awe-inspiring crystals. The art of crystal hunting is not only an engaging pastime, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the splendor of nature while discovering its hidden treasures.
We have uncovered numerous fantastic spots in Rhode Island where you can succeed in crystal hunting. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, there is something for everyone in this captivating pursuit. As you unearth the beauty of these natural wonders, you’ll be reminded of the incredible artistry and power within the Earth.
Rhode Island’s diverse landscape holds many opportunities for any crystal hunter, regardless of experience level. From the sparkling shores of the coastline to the lush, forested areas, this state is a treasure trove waiting to be explored. As you embark on your crystal-hunting journey, you’ll be captivated by the dazzling array of colors and shapes that these magnificent specimens exhibit.
- 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 Rhode Island Crystals You Can Find
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it’s a powerhouse regarding crystal diversity. Nestled within its captivating landscape, this charming state is home to an impressive array of crystals that can captivate even the most seasoned collector.
Rare crystals found in Rhode Island
- Amazonite
- Agate
- Amethyst
- Beryl
- Chalcedony
- Chalcopyrite
- Epidote
- Galena
- Garnet
- Hematite
- Serpentine
- Tremolite
More common crystals found here
- Carnelian
- Jasper
- Quartz
The Best Locations For Crystal Mining in Rhode Island
Here are a handful of Rhode Island’s top locations for crystal searching. We’re confident you’ll experience the same success in exploring them and finding rare crystals as we did.
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
Calumet Hill
Calumet Hill is an ideal destination for crystal hunters, as the site offers many specimens waiting to be discovered. The hill’s terrain is also characterized by pegmatites, known to host gem-quality crystals such as beryl and tourmaline. You can list this place among the greatest locations to find gems in Rhode Island.
The history of Calumet Hill dates back to the early days of Rhode Island’s settlement when it was primarily used for agriculture. As time passed, the area became known for its mineral deposits, attracting rockhounds and geologists alike. The unique geological makeup of the region, resulting from ancient volcanic activity, has given rise to the formation of an impressive array of crystals and minerals.
In addition to its geological appeal, Calumet Hill boasts stunning views of the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. So whether you’re an avid crystal hunter or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, Calumet Hill in Rhode Island will surely delight and inspire you with its unique offerings and captivating history.
Where we found crystals at Calumet Hill
Agate, chalcedony, jasper, and quartz crystals are just a few of the crystals we’ve collected from the area quarries of Calumet Hill.
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
Northeast Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Northeastern 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.
Diamond Hill Granite Quarry
Diamond Hill Granite Quarry is a fantastic spot for crystal hunters seeking a diverse range of stunning specimens. The site is renowned for its impressive quartz varieties. The quarry’s unique geological features also provide opportunities to discover other minerals.
The history of Diamond Hill Granite Quarry can be traced back to the 19th century when the site was actively mined for its high-quality granite. The granite extracted from the quarry was utilized to construct several prominent buildings, including the Rhode Island State House. As mining activities ceased, the quarry was eventually abandoned, leaving a geological playground for rockhounds and nature lovers to explore.
Where we found crystals at Diamond Hill Granite Quarry
Epidote, quartz, and tremolite crystals can be found in the Diamond Hill Granite Quarry dumps. If you’re trying to figure out how much do crystals cost, you’re lucky! We’ve made this detailed guide to help crystal hunters out.
Iron Hill Mine
Situated in the town of Exeter, Iron Hill Mine offers not only a fascinating glimpse into the state’s past but also a wealth of geological treasures, making it an ideal spot for crystal hunters and history enthusiasts.
The Iron Hill Mine dates back to the early 19th century when the mine was established to extract iron ore, a valuable resource at the time. The mine remained operational for several decades, playing a significant role in Rhode Island’s industrial development. As the demand for iron dwindled, the mine was eventually abandoned, leaving behind a geological playground for those eager to explore its hidden wonders.
Where we found crystals at Iron Hill Mine
Most amethyst and serpentine crystals can be found at the Iron Hill Mine dumps and quarry.
Mount Hope Bay
While Mount Hope Bay may not be a traditional crystal-hunting site, its coastal location offers a unique opportunity to find beach treasures such as sea glass and beautifully tumbled stones. These alluring finds, shaped and polished by the ocean’s waves, make for exquisite additions to any collection. Furthermore, the bay’s diverse geological landscape may occasionally yield interesting mineral specimens, adding to the excitement of exploring this charming locale.
A visit to Mount Hope Bay not only allows you to delve into Rhode Island’s rich history but also offers the chance to discover its coastal treasures. With its breathtaking views and serene ambiance, Mount Hope Bay is the perfect destination for anyone seeking a relaxing and rewarding crystal-hunting experience.
Where we found crystals at Mount Hope Bay
The area beach gravels at Mount Hope Bay contains agate, amethyst, carnelian, and jasper crystals.
Sneech Pond
The history of Sneech Pond is closely tied to the early days of Rhode Island’s industrial development. The pond and its surrounding area were once home to several mills, including the historic Ashton Mill, which harnessed the water’s power to fuel the bustling textile industry. Today, Sneech Pond is a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking a peaceful escape amidst nature’s splendor.
A visit to Sneech Pond allows you to immerse yourself in Rhode Island’s rich industrial history while exploring its captivating natural beauty. As you uncover the geological wonders hidden within this enchanting location, you’ll be reminded of the awe-inspiring forces that shape our world. Sneech Pond is truly a delightful destination for anyone seeking a memorable and rewarding crystal-hunting experience!
Where we found crystals at Sneech Pond
We had the best luck discovering crystals of chalcopyrite, garnet, and serpentine at the Sneech Pond.
Our Other Favorite Places For Crystal Hunting
The state offers many fantastic places where you can look for crystals and find geodes in Rhode Island. Other options to explore are listed below.
Where you can find crystals for free in Rhode Island
A few places where you can look without paying are enumerated below. Despite the fact that many appealing locations charge an entry fee, some can be visited for free.
| County | Location |
| Bristol | At the area gravel pits and deposits for jasper |
| Kent | In gravels along the shores of Narragansett Bay for carnelian |
| Kent | At Nooseneck in West Greenwich for amazonite |
| Newport | The quarry on Fish road for quartz |
| Providence | Area deposits at Cranston for hematite |
| Providence | Area quarries at Cumberland Hill for agate, chalcedony, jasper, and quartz |
| Providence | Area quarries at Diamond Hill for agate, chalcedony, jasper, and quartz |
| Providence | Area beach gravels at Pawtuxet for agate, amethyst, carnelian, and jasper |
| Providence | The Wanskuck Hill roads and road cuts for beryl |
| Washington | In outcropping pegmatites along the eastern shore, Bonnet Point, Bonnet Shore Beach, Ft. Varnum, and Watson Pier for galena |
Other great places to dig for crystals
If you don’t mind spending money, these additional amazing destinations are great places to look for crystals. Various times of year might vary in price and can even be free! Before visiting these locations, get in touch with them.
| County | Location |
| Providence | Wanskirch Granite Quarry for quartz |
| Providence | Conklin Lime Company Quarry for agate, quartz, and serpentine |
| Washington | Westerly Granite Quarry for beryl |
| Washington | Tower Hill area mines for galena |
How to find crystals in Rhode Island
Here are more tips to help you find crystals and make the most of your time in a particular area. Some of the greatest locations to look are as follows:
Quarries
Searching for crystals in quarries can be an exciting and rewarding adventure for rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts alike. Quarries, which are essentially large, open-pit mines, have long been a popular destination for crystal hunters, thanks to the unique geological conditions and abundance of mineral specimens that they offer.
Crystals can often be found embedded in the walls of the quarry or within the piles of discarded material known as tailings. Additionally, fractures and fissures in the rock can be home to stunning crystal formations, making it well worth the effort to explore these areas carefully.
Roadcuts
Exploring roadcuts can be a thrilling and fruitful way to discover crystals for mineral enthusiasts of all levels. Roadcuts, which are excavations made into the Earth’s surface during the construction of highways and roads, often reveal unique geological formations that were previously hidden beneath layers of soil and rock.
Roadcuts offer a unique and accessible opportunity to uncover fascinating crystal specimens, providing an enjoyable and rewarding experience for those who venture into these geological windows. With careful planning and a keen eye, a trip to a roadcut can lead to the discovery of stunning crystals and minerals to add to your collection.
Sediment deposits
Sifting through sediment deposits is a fantastic way to unearth crystals and mineral specimens, offering both seasoned and novice rockhounds an exciting and rewarding experience. Sediment deposits, which consist of layers of sand, silt, clay, and gravel, often accumulate in riverbeds, floodplains, and other low-lying areas, providing a rich environment for crystal formation and preservation.
One of the main reasons sediment deposits are great for finding crystals is that they act as natural concentrators of minerals. As water flows over the Earth’s surface, it picks up and carries minerals and crystals along with it. These materials are eventually deposited in areas where the water flow slows down, leading to the formation of sediment layers that can hold hidden treasures.
Rhode Island Crystal Mining Laws And Regulations
Before embarking on your crystal hunting adventure in Rhode Island, be sure to research the specific laws and regulations for the area you plan to visit, as they can vary between different locations.
Always obtain permission from landowners before accessing or collecting on private land. Trespassing is illegal and can result in fines or other penalties. Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations for collecting on public lands, such as state parks, state forests, or wildlife management areas. Some public lands may require permits from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management or have restrictions on collecting activities.
Leave no trace by minimizing your impact on the environment, filling in any holes you dig, and not disturbing wildlife habitats. Collect only what you need and avoid over-collecting to ensure that future generations can also enjoy this hobby.
The Best Crystal Shops In Rhode Island
Because the state has a wide variety of crystals, many of us like making small purchases to round out our collections. These are the best crystal shops we’ve found in the state if you’re looking for unusual and gorgeous crystals.
- Apple Valley Mineral – 7 Homestead Ave, Smithfield, RI 02917
- Cici and the Moon – 620 Killingly St, Johnston, RI 02919
- Crystal Healing Arts – 1005 Main St Studio 8216, Pawtucket, RI 02860
- Crystals and Brews – 579 Washington St, Coventry, RI 02816
- Hord Crystal Corporation – 33 York Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860
- The Lion’s Gateway – 699 Aquidneck Ave, Middletown, RI 02842
- Natural Elements – 435 Thames St, Newport, RI 02840
- Natures the Rock Shop – 416 Metacom Ave, Bristol, RI 02809
- Third Rock Emporium – 75 Main St, East Greenwich, RI 02818
- Wild Witches – 1965 Smith St, North Providence, RI 02911
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!
