The 39 Interesting Sites To Find Crystals In Utah In 2025

By Keith Jackson - Geologist

| Updated

The 39 Interesting Sites To Find Crystals In Utah In 2025

By Keith Jackson - Geologist

Updated

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 

yellow-orange calcite crystal

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 

translucent colorless gypsum crystal

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

bright green fluorite crystals

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  

metallic silver galena crystals

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

bright blue corundum crystal

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

white quartz crystal cluster

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

golden cubic pyrite crystals on a matrix

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

banded 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

deep red rhodonite crystals

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

deep green vivianite crystal

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 Crystals We Found

deep blue azurite crystal cluster
Azurite provided by Fossilera

Here are the different kinds of crystals you can find in Utah:

Rare crystals found in Utah

  • Amethyst
  • Aquamarine
  • Bismuth
  • Covellite
  • Halite
  • Labradorite
  • Morganite
  • Obsidian
  • Peridot
  • Topaz
  • Wulfenite

More common crystals found here

  • Agate
  • Aragonite
  • Azurite
  • Calcite
  • Carnelian
  • Chalcedony
  • Chalcopyrite
  • Chrysocolla
  • Fluorite
  • Galena
  • Garnet
  • Hematite
  • Jasper
  • Malachite
  • Onyx
  • Opal
  • Pyrite
  • Quartz (Smoky)
  • Rutile
  • Selenite

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

pile of rough stones

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

brown translucent smoky quartz

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

bright green crystal on a matrix

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

golden pyrite crystal cluster

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

clear pale blue aquamarine crystal

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.

Rock pick being used

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.

The Mining Laws And Regulations You Should Know

Mining for crystals comes with the responsibility of adhering to the local laws of the state pertaining to this activity, especially those mandated by the Utah Bureau of Land Management.

These laws include securing any necessary permit or permission before exploring any land for crystals.

Also, be mindful of any regulations imposed to protect the environment and biodiversity of an area. By abiding by these laws and guidelines, you are helping ensure that mining for crystals remains legal in Utah for years to come.

How We Picked The Best Places To Find Crystals
We spent a lot of time determining which of the many options for digging and mining for crystals that we have available would be recommended. We wanted to have a good mix of locations for experienced and novice crystals hunters in a variety of settings. Here are the main factors we used when determining the recommendations we set out :

  • 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 Utah

sky-blue botryoidal smithsonite crystals
Smithsonite provided by Danzrockshop

Here are our top five recommendations if you want to look for crystals in the state:

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

Topaz Mountain

Entrance signage and a quick look at the rock formations at Topaz Mountain
Topaz Mountain by the Mineralogical Society of Southern California

Aptly named after the stunning Topaz crystals that can be found here, which are naturally light yellow in color but turn clear when exposed to sunlight, Topaz Mountain is on top of our recommendations list.

It’s also a great place to find high-quality gems in Utah in case you’re in search of them, too.

This area was once a bustling mining town during the gold rush, and many prospectors tried their luck searching for precious metals and gemstones. However, it wasn’t until the early 1900s that Topaz was discovered here, and it quickly became a sought-after mineral.

Topaz Mountain, located in the Thomas Range, is composed of rhyolite, a type of volcanic rock that is rich in mineral deposits. The crystals here are often found in cavities and fractures within the rock.

Where we found crystals on Topaz Mountain

Although Topaz Mountain is naturally rich in crystals in all its nooks and crannies, we still recommend exploring the natural basin at the south base of the mountain first.

The crystals you can find here are Calcite, Carnelian, Chalcedony, Fluorite, Garnet, Hematite, Quartz, and, of course, Topaz.

Rock pick being used

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.

Dugway Geode Beds

A look at the rock formations at Dugway Geode Beds
Dugway Geode Beds by The Salt Project

The Dugway Geode Beds are located in western Utah, near the town of Dugway.

This area has a rich history as it was once home to a thriving mining community. However, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that geodes were discovered here, and they quickly became a popular item among collectors and enthusiasts.

To find crystals here, you’ll need to do some hiking and exploration. Keep your eyes peeled when you visit because crystals here are typically scattered across the landscape and found in clusters.

Where we found crystals at the Dugway Geode Beds

The Dugway Geode Beds are rich in stunning, highly sought-after Amethyst and Quartz crystals that you can find practically anywhere in the area.

Once you find them, you might start wondering how much they’re worth. Read up on crystal prices here.

Great Salt Lake

Stunning view of the Great Salt Lake and its surrounding scenery

The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, covering an area of over 1,700 square miles. It was formed over 10,000 years ago during the last ice age when melting glaciers filled the basin with water.

It’s been an important source of salt and other minerals for centuries, and even today, the lake is an important economic resource for the state.

The lake is located in the northern part of Utah and is surrounded by mountains and desert. The water in the lake is incredibly salty, with a salinity level that is about eight times saltier than the ocean.

Because of this, the lake has a unique ecosystem and is home to a variety of unique plant and animal species.

But what really makes the Great Salt Lake a great place for crystal hunting is the geology of the area. The lake sits on top of a vast network of underground streams and springs that bring a variety of minerals to the surface.

As the water in the lake evaporates, these minerals are left behind, creating a rich deposit of crystals and other minerals. So, if you’re looking for crystals, the Great Salt Lake is definitely worth checking out!

Where we found crystals at the Great Salt Lake

You can explore along the shores of the Great Salt Lake and you might be lucky to uncover Aragonite and Halite crystals.

San Rafael Swell

winding road the the Spotted Wolf Canyon

The San Rafael Swell is a large geological feature that was formed over millions of years of erosion and tectonic activity. It was named after the San Rafael River, which flows through the area, and was first explored by Spanish missionaries in the 1700s.

The swell is characterized by its unique sandstone formations, deep canyons, and rugged terrain. It’s a popular destination for hikers, backpackers, and rock climbers, but it’s also a great place to find crystals.

The area is rich in a variety of minerals, and some of the best places to look for crystals here are in the exposed rock faces and along the banks of the many creeks and rivers that run through the swell.

Where we found crystals at the San Rafael Swell

If you’re here, we recommend exploring the regional surfaces, draws, and washes of the San Rafael Swell. Some of the crystals you can find here are beautiful samples of Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper, and Selenite.

Black Rock

Interesting rock formations at Black Rock
Black Rock Desert by Alyssa Bray

Black Rock was originally settled by the Paiute Indians, who used the nearby springs for drinking water and irrigating their crops.

Later on, miners came to the area in search of precious metals, but it was eventually abandoned due to the harsh desert environment.

Black Rock is located in the western part of the state, near the Nevada border. It’s situated in a desert landscape, with sparse vegetation and rugged terrain.

The rocks themselves are volcanic in origin and are composed of a variety of different minerals.

These volcanic rocks have been known to contain a wide variety of crystals. The harsh desert environment has also helped to preserve many of these crystals, making them easier to find.

When you visit Black Rock, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and other essential supplies. The area can be quite hot and dry, especially during the summer months, so it’s important to take proper precautions to stay safe and comfortable.

Where we found crystals in Black Rock

You can find Snowflake Obsidian that appears as volcanic glass crystals with white mineral inclusions looking like snowflakes, if you explore the area draws, washes, and surfaces of Black Rock.

Our Other Favorite Places For Crystal Hunting

half of a Dugway geode with crystals
Dugway geode provided by SolomonProductions

Since Utah is naturally rich in crystals, it should come as no surprise that there are plenty of other interesting sites that you can explore here. In fact, many of these sites also offer some of the best Utah geodes that you can find.

Where you can find crystals for free

Without costing a cent, these places have proven to be interesting sites to find crystals in the state.

County Location
Beaver Southwest slope of Frisco Peak
Emery Along the shores of the Buckorn Reservoir
Garfield Upstream north on both Muley Creek and Bullfrog Creek
Grand Gravel bars of the Colorado River
Iron All regional draws, washes, breaks, etc. outside monument boundary at Cedar Breaks National Monument
Kane Along both sides of the East Fork Virgin Creek to Alton Road
Millard Northeast of the railroad station at Clear Lake
Piute In the Tushar Mountains
San Juan In Oljeto Wash all the way to the San Juan River
Summit South-southwest of the summit of Hayden Peak
Utah Area draws, washes, surfaces of Fairfield
Washington In Beaver Dam Wash
Wayne Regional draws, washes, breaks, and surfaces of Torrey

It can be very easy to confuse some of the more common crystals that are found here, so we came up with a few guides to telling specific crystals apart:

Other great places to dig for crystals

If you’re open to paying a fee to search for crystals, here are your best options. Keep in mind that the fees may change depending on the season, so make sure to contact them first before heading out.

County Location
Beaver In the Mineral Mountains area mines
Box Elder At the Copper Mountain Mine
Davis Kaysville area mines
Juab At the Honey Onyx Mine
Salt Lake Area mines of Salt Lake City, in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Copperton, Brighton, Bingham, and Alta
San Juan Area mines of La Sal
Sevier At the Ball Mine
Summit Many great mines and dumps at Park City
Tooele Area mines of Clifton, Mercur, Ophir, Rush Valley, and Willow Springs
Uintah At the Dyer Mine
Weber Ogden area mines

The Best Crystal Shops In The Area

A look at the exteriors and building of Treasures N Creations
Treasures N Creations

If you don’t have much time or energy to go through our recommended sites to find crystals and prefer a relaxed way of taking them home, your best bet is to visit the local crystal shops.

Fortunately, Utah has some of the best stores with great crystal selections, such as the following:

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!

About Keith Jackson - Geologist

Keith Jackson is an avid rockhound who is constantly exploring new sites to expand his collection. He is an active Geologist with a wealth of experience and information from across the country that he loves to share with the Rock Chasing crew.

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