Are you looking for a sparkling adventure that will leave you in awe? Look no further than the beautiful state of Virginia, where you can find an abundance of crystals that will take your breath away. This state is a treasure trove of crystal formations waiting to be discovered.
There’s no denying that crystals are incredible and mesmerizing. These natural formations have been around for millions of years, and their unique shapes, colors, and patterns are truly breathtaking. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time explorer, there’s nothing like the thrill of finding crystals in Virginia.
With so many great options in the state, you will surely have a successful hunt! So grab your gear, put on your hiking boots, and get ready for an adventure that will take you deep into the heart of Virginia’s crystal country.
- 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 Virginia Crystals You Can Find
Virginia is a hot spot for crystal hunters, as the state is home to an array of crystal deposits waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re looking for something shiny and smooth or jagged and rough, you’re bound to find what you’re searching for! With some luck and perseverance, you might even uncover a rare crystal that will make all your friends green with envy.
Rare crystals found in Virginia
- Agate
- Chrysocolla
- Jasper
- Malachite
- Muscovite
- Serpentine
- Smoky Quartz
- Tremolite
- Unakite
More common crystals found here
- Amazonite
- Amethyst
- Apatite
- Azurite
- Beryl
- Calcite
- Chalcopyrite
- Epidote
- Fluorite
- Galena
- Garnet
- Hematite
- Kyanite
- Moonstone
- Pyrite
- Quartz
- Topaz
- Tourmaline
The Best Locations For Crystal Mining in Virginia
We’ve selected our top 5 suggestions from among the many incredible locations in Virginia where you can find crystals, and we’re positive you’ll love exploring them!
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
Betty Baker Mine is Our Favorite Crystal Mine in Virginia
Blue Ridge Province, Carroll County
The Betty Baker Mine is a must-see if you’re wondering where to discover crystals in Virginia. This mine has a rich history, dating back to the 19th century, when it was originally used for copper mining. In the 1960s, a group of rockhounds discovered the mine’s hidden treasure trove of crystals, and it has been a popular spot for crystal hunting ever since. It’s also one of the best places to mine gems in Virginia.
The Betty Baker Mine is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the town of Amelia. Its unique geology, which includes a combination of volcanic and sedimentary rocks, makes it an ideal location for crystal formation. The mine’s owners are friendly and welcoming, and they provide all the tools and equipment you need to dig for crystals. Plus, the mine has a reputation for producing high-quality crystals,
Where we found crystals at the Betty Baker Mine
We had the most success searching for azurite, chalcopyrite, chrysocolla, galena, and pyrite crystals at Betty Baker Mine.
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.
Contrary Creek
Louisa County, Virginia 23117
Contrary Creek was first discovered in the 1800s, and was mined for its copper and other minerals. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that rockhounds discovered the creek’s rich crystal deposits. Today, Contrary Creek is a popular spot for crystal hunting, and attracts visitors from all over the country.
The creek is a little off the beaten path, so you won’t have to compete with as many other crystal hunters. Additionally, the creek’s unique geology makes it an ideal location for crystal formation. And with a little bit of luck and a lot of hard work, you just might uncover a real treasure.
Where we found crystals at Contrary Creek
There is an abundance of azurite, calcite, chalcopyrite, galena, garnet, kyanite, malachite, pyrite, quartz, and serpentine crystals upstream of Contrary Creek. We’ve created a detailed guide on how much are crystals worth for additional knowledge.
Hottinger Mine
Otter Hill in Bedford County
The Hottinger Mine has been around since the early 1800s, when it was first used for lead and zinc mining. In the 1950s, however, it was discovered that the mine was also rich in quartz crystals, and it became a popular spot for hunters looking to score some amazing specimens.
Geographically, Hottinger Mine is situated in the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains, surrounded by lush forests and bubbling streams. The mine’s unique geology has made it a prime spot for crystal hunting, with a variety of quartz crystals and other minerals waiting to be unearthed. The mine’s mineral-rich soil and underground water sources create the perfect environment for crystal growth, resulting in an abundance of beautiful specimens.
Where we found crystals at Hottinger Mine
We mostly found amazonite, garnet, and smoky quartz crystals in the whole area of Hottinger Mine at Bedford.
Morefield Mine
13400 Butlers Rd, Amelia Court House, VA 23002, United States
If you’re a crystal lover, you gotta check out Morefield Mine in Virginia! It’s been around since the 1920s, and it’s become a real hotspot for rockhounds and mineral collectors. This place has a rich history of mining, and it’s been churning out some serious crystal treasure for decades. It’s an absolute gem of a destination for anyone who loves digging for treasures.
Located in Amelia County, Morefield Mine is situated on ancient ocean floor land. That means there’s a lot of cool stuff to be found there and you won’t be disappointed! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced collector, there’s something for everyone. The guided tours are great for people who want to get the most out of their experience and find some hidden gems.
Where we found crystals at Morefield Mine
Amazonite, amethyst, apatite, aquamarine, beryl, chalcopyrite, fluorite, galena, and quartz crystals are what we mostly found at the surrounding area of Morefield Mine at Amelia Court House.
Willis Mountain Mine
30 Willis Mountain Plant Ln, Dillwyn, VA 23936, United States
Willis Mountain Mine has been around since the late 1800s and has gone through several owners and periods of activity. These days, it’s run by a company called American Kyanite, and they offer tours and opportunities for crystal enthusiasts to come and dig for crystals.
Willis Mountain is made up of a type of rock called kyanite, which is known for its crystal-forming properties. The area around the mine is also rich in other minerals like mica and quartz, which can add some variety to your finds.
And if you’re looking to find some crystals, this is definitely the place to go. The mine has produced some absolutely stunning specimens over the years, including massive kyanite crystals that can be several feet long. Of course, there’s no guarantee you’ll strike it rich on your first visit, but that’s just part of the fun!
Where we found crystals at Willis Mountain Mine
We had the best luck locating apatite, garnet, hematite, kyanite, pyrite, and topaz crystals while going through the whole area of Willis Mountain Mine.
Our Other Favorite Places For Crystal Hunting
As we previously stated, the top five locations above are not the only ones where you can look for crystals in this area. We have an exceptionally wealthy state, therefore there are tons of different places where you can dig for crystals, as well as locate geodes in Virginia. Here are a few examples:
Where you can find crystals for free in Virginia
While many of the best areas to look for crystals in this state need payment before digging, there are other locations where you won’t need to spend any money looking for these marvels of nature.
| County | Location |
| Ablemarle | At the Charlottesville area, you can find epidotes and unakites at the Red Hill Quarry |
| Ablemarle | Buck Mountain Creek and Moorman River for agate, amethyst, epidote, and jasper |
| Amherst | Fancy Hill Ridge for amethyst and quartz |
| Grayson | In area cut banks, quarries, and gravels of Hanks Knob for garnet, pyrite, and quartz |
| Loudoun | Arlington Quarry for calcite, epidote, fluorite, and quartz |
Other great places to dig for crystals
We’ve also collected a list of some of the locations you may visit if you don’t mind paying to dig for magnificent crystals. Keep in mind that depending on the season, the prices may vary, so be sure to check it out first before going.
| County | Location |
| Ablemarle | Faber Mine for azurite, chalcopyrite, fluorite, and galena |
| Amelia | Rutherford Mine for amazonite, amethyst, muscovite, quartz, and topaz |
| Amelia | Richeson Mica Mine for amazonite and muscovite |
| Amelia | Jefferson, Berry, Winston, Pinchback, and Schlegal Mines for apatite, beryl, fluorite, muscovite, quartz, and tourmaline |
| Bedford | Bells Mine for amazonite, garnet, and smoky quartz |
| Franklin | Franklin Mine and between Chestnut and Snow Creeks for apatite, beryl, garnet, quartz, and tourmaline |
| Grayson | Hampton mine for garnet, kyanite, and tourmaline |
| Hanover | Mica Mine Farm for garnet, kyanite, and tourmaline |
| Henry | Ridgeway Mines for garnet and quartz |
| Prince Edward | Baker Mountain Kyanite Mine and Briery Mine for garnet, kyanite, and topaz |
| Prince William | Cabin Branch Mine for chalcopyrite, garnet, and galena |
| Rockingham | Nearby Lead-Zinc Mine for calcite, chalcopyrite, galena, hematite, pyrite, and tremolie/td> |
How to find crystals in Virginia
A number of our recommendations encompass broad or extensive areas, therefore to help you narrow down where exactly you should start your hunt on these places, below are some of the usual spots where you might locate crystals.
Mines and mine dumps
Searching in mines and mine dumps can be a real goldmine when it comes to finding some crystal gems. These locations offer a unique opportunity to get your hands on some rare and valuable crystals that you won’t find just lying around on the surface.
But let’s not overlook the fact that searching in mines and mine dumps comes with its own set of risks and challenges. Safety should always be a top priority, as mines can be unstable and dangerous. It’s essential to have the right equipment, including hard hats, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
One thing to keep in mind is that crystals can be found in a variety of different minerals, so it’s crucial to know what to look for. Familiarizing yourself with the different types of rocks and minerals that are commonly found in mines can give you an edge in your search.
Quarries
If you’re looking for a rock-solid way to find some crystal gems, you might want to try your luck searching in quarries. Quarries are man-made sites that are typically used for mining rocks and minerals, and they can be a fantastic source of crystals.
One of the benefits of searching in quarries is that they’re often quite accessible and easy to get to. Unlike natural outcroppings or underground mines, quarries are usually located at ground level and don’t require any special equipment to access.
However, it’s important to keep safety in mind when searching in quarries, as the walls can be steep and unstable. Make sure you have proper footwear and clothing, and avoid areas that look particularly hazardous.
Streams and creeks
Streams and creeks are flowing bodies of water can be a great source of crystals, as they naturally erode rocks and minerals and carry them downstream. One of the benefits of searching in streams and creeks is that you don’t need any special equipment to get started. Just roll up your sleeves, put on some sturdy shoes, and start wading through the water.
However, it’s important to keep safety in mind when searching in streams and creeks. The water can be swift and unpredictable, and there may be hidden hazards like sharp rocks or submerged tree branches. Be sure to watch your step and stay alert.
Virginia Crystal Mining Laws And Regulations
Virginia has a number of regulations in place when it comes to recreational crystal mining. These regulations are designed to protect both the environment and the safety of those who are searching for crystals. A permit is required for all recreational mineral collecting. This permit can be obtained through the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy. Certain areas in Virginia may be off-limits to recreational crystal mining. For example, some state parks and wildlife management areas prohibit mineral collecting.
Recreational crystal mining is only allowed in areas where it will not damage the environment or wildlife. It’s important to avoid disrupting natural habitats or damaging streams or other water sources. Mining can be dangerous, so it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself. This may include wearing appropriate safety gear, such as hard hats and gloves, and avoiding steep or unstable areas.
By following these regulations and taking appropriate safety precautions, recreational crystal mining can be a fun and rewarding activity in Virginia. However, it’s important to always be mindful of the impact you are having on the environment and to follow all regulations to ensure the continued availability of this resource for future generations.
The Best Crystal Shops In Virginia
If you lack the time or the desire to embark on a crystal hunting adventure, you might want to think about purchasing crystals from some of Virginia’s best crystal shops. You can choose from various crystals at each of the shops we’ve listed below:
- The Crystal Case Rock Shop – The Barrett Street Antique Mall 2645 Dean Dr Dealer, 2645 Dean Dr # 901, Virginia Beach, VA 23452, United States
- Crystal Cottage – 4310 Electric Rd, Cave Spring, VA 24018, United States
- The Crystal Sunflower – 507 1/2 Botetourt St, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States
- Crystalis Treasures – 306 Elden St, Herndon, VA 20170, United States
- Healing Crystals – 4462 Martinsburg Pike, Clear Brook, VA 22624, United States
- Odyssey Gem and Float – 927 Valley Ave, Winchester, VA 22601, United States
- Rocks to Gems and Crystals – 5344 Mary Ball Rd, Lancaster, VA 22503, United States
- Sticks and Stones Circle – 11023 Lee Hwy, Fairfax, VA 22030, United States
- Stone Goddess Rock Shop – 206 Chesterfield Ave, Colonial Heights, VA 23834, United States
- VaRockShop – 190 Rockfish School Ln, Afton, VA 22920, United States
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 Kentucky
- Crystals in Maryland
- Crystals in North Carolina
- Crystals in Tennessee
- Crystals in West Virginia
If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered please leave them in the comments below!
