If you are a collector looking for serious finds, you should know that prime crystals in Indiana are definitely within reach. These valuable specimens might not always be easy to find, but the landscape is ready to share its treasures with those who know exactly where to search.
A successful day of collecting means looking beyond ordinary maps and focus on understanding the land itself. We can help you find out what you should look for when identifying potential new sites to explore.
Knowing what spots are worth visiting will instantly improve your chances of making some awesome discoveries!
- 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 Indiana Crystals You Can Find
Crystals are stunning mineral formations that have been around for millions of years. These natural wonders are often found in geodes or veins in rocks and can be made up of various minerals. The best places to find crystals here are in old mines, quarries, and natural formations like creeks and rivers. Keep your eyes peeled for areas with exposed bedrock, as crystals can be found in cracks and crevices.
It’s worth noting that crystal hunting can be a bit of a gamble. Sometimes you’ll find a treasure trove of crystals, and other times you might come up empty-handed. But that’s all part of the fun, right? The thrill of the hunt is half why crystal hunting is such a popular hobby!
Apatite
Apatite is mostly made up of phosphate and calcium and has a range of colors, including green, blue, yellow, and purple.
It’s made when rocks high in phosphate react with different geological processes. There are different kinds of apatite in Indiana. One of them is fluorapatite, which has bright colors and usually looks like small crystals or holes in other rocks.
You can find these gems in several geological places, including limestone mines and sedimentary rocks high in phosphate.
Apatite is very valuable because it can be used in many ways. It’s an important part of making fertilizers, which help crops grow better and increase agricultural output.
It’s also used to make phosphoric acid, an important ingredient in many products, such as food, drinks, and cleaning.
Apatite is also a popular choice for jewelry and gem lovers because of its bright colors. It’s a valued mineral in Indiana, whether for its use in farming or business, or just because it looks nice. It adds to our daily lives and the geological diversity of the state.
Where you can find Apatite in Indiana
It’s easy to find apatite in Indiana, especially in these places:
- Debolt Quarry
- France Stone Quarry
Aragonite
Calcium carbonate is the main ingredient in aragonite, made when calcium carbonate crystals settle out of water over time. You can find different kinds of aragonite in Indiana.
One is called “Needle Aragonite,” and its long, thin crystals look like needles or spikes. You can often find these forms in caves, springs, and other places with a lot of calcium.
Many mineral fans like aragonite, and it’s also sometimes used in jewelry making or lapidary work. Scientists are also interested in and study aragonite because it can be used to make very delicate and complicated structures.
Its presence in Indiana increases the variety of rocks in the state and helps with scientific study and enjoying the beauty of nature.
Where you can find Aragonite in Indiana
In Indiana, you can find aragonite in these places:
- Marengo Cave
Barite
Barite comes in many colors, from white and gray to blue, yellow, and brown shades. It’s like a natural treasure chest.
Barite is made when barium-rich fluids mix with sulfate ions in the Earth’s crust. Over time, these chemical processes cause crystals of barite to form. There are different kinds of barite in Indiana.
One is called “Desert Rose,” growing in unique rosette-shaped groups. You can find barite in volcanic rocks, caves, and mines. It’s often found with other minerals, such as fluorite.
It’s precious for the many ways it can be used. In the oil and gas business, it’s often added to drilling muds to make them heavier. This helps control well pressure and keep boreholes stable while digging.
In the medical area, barite is used for imaging to help with diagnosis. It’s also used to make paints, plastics, and ceramics. Because it’s helpful in medicine and business, barite is a critical mineral that adds to the variety of Indiana’s rocks and many parts of modern life.
Where you can find Barite in Indiana
You can find one-of-a-kind pieces of barite in the following places:
- Big Pine Creek
- Dunn Limestone Quarry
Celestite
Indiana is home to the beautiful gem celestite, known for its tiny blue crystals that look like the sky. It feels like a little piece of heaven is hidden under the surface of the Earth.
Celestite is made when liquids high in strontium react with sulfate ions in holes in the ground. These chemical processes cause beautiful sky-blue celestite crystals to grow over time.
You can find different kinds of celestite, usually in geodes, round rock holes filled with crystals. These geodes are found in sedimentary rocks, and fans love them because of how beautiful they look.
It’s used in many industrial processes, such as to make fireworks and as a source of strontium in glass and pottery. Celestite is a valuable mineral in Indiana because it can be used as a calming gemstone and an industry resource. It helps with both personal health and industrial processes.
Where you can find Celestite in Indiana
Celestite can be found in the following places:
- Dunn Limestone Quarry
Fluorite
Fluorite is a beautiful mineral that can be found in Indiana. It’s known for having bright colors and unusual crystal shapes. It’s mostly made of calcium fluoride and comes in many colors, such as purple, green, blue, yellow, and more.
It’s made when hot, mineral-rich fluids flow through cracks in the rock and leave crystals of fluorite. The colors of fluorite come from the minor elements present when it was formed. You can find these crystals in caves, quarries, and mines.
The value of fluorite is determined by its beauty and use. Because of its bright colors and complex crystal shapes, it’s a popular choice among fans, stone workers, and jewelry designers.
In addition to being beautiful, fluorite is used in many different fields, such as to make steel, metal, and some chemicals. Because it can bend and refract light in a special way, it’s also used in optical devices like lenses and prisms.
Where you can find Fluorite in Indiana
Fluorite is easy to find in Indiana especially in these places:
- Cave Stone Co. Quarry
- Meshberger Stone Co Quarry
Hematite
Hematite is a fascinating mineral that can be found in Indiana. It has a metallic sheen and a striking look. It’s like finding a shiny piece of silver tucked away in the rocks of the Earth. It’s mostly made up of iron oxide, and its color can be anywhere from gray to black.
It’s made when minerals that are high in iron respond chemically with oxygen and water. Over time, this process makes these crystals possible.
In Indiana, you can find different kinds of hematite, such as botryoidal hematite, shaped like round grape bunches, and specular hematite, which has a smooth, reflective surface.
You can find these crystals in sedimentary rocks, caves, and sometimes in stones that have been worn down or polished.
Because it looks like metal, hematite is very valuable and is often used to make jewelry and decorative art. The way it shines adds a touch of class and beauty to many designs.
Additionally, hematite is a significant source of iron, which is needed to make steel and other metals.
Because it can be used in many industries and looks nice, hematite is a valued material in Indiana that adds to our daily lives and the geological diversity of the state.
Where you can find Hematite in Indiana
You can look in the following places to find pieces of hematite:
- Highland Creek
Marcasite
Marcasite is a lovely gem known for its metallic sheen and unique crystal structures. It looks like a silver prize that has been hidden. Iron sulfide makes up most of it, which usually forms in beautiful brassy-yellow or silver-gray crystals.
When sulfur and other elements in the ground combine with iron sulfide minerals, marcasite is made. This chemical process makes marcasite crystals grow over time.
There are different kinds of marcasite in Indiana, which is often found in volcanic rocks and caves. People love these rocks because they shine like metal and have unique crystal shapes.
It’s very valuable because of the way it looks and is used to make jewelry and other decorations. It’s often set as a gemstone in rings, earrings, and brooches.
The brassy shine gives them a touch of class and old-fashioned charm. It has been used in jewelry for hundreds of years, and its past goes back to ancient times.
Where you can find Marcasite in Indiana
Pieces of marcasite can be found in the following places:
- Cave Stone Co. Quarry
- Erie Stone Co. Quarry
- Norgan Company Coal Mine
Pyrite
People often call the mineral pyrite “Fool’s Gold” because it looks like real gold in the way it sparkles and is yellow. In the Earth’s deepest layers, where it’s hot and pressured, iron and sulfur come together to form it.
Pyrite comes in a range of sizes and forms in Indiana. On some days it looks like tiny diamonds stuck in rocks, and on other days it may be in big chunks.
The way these pieces naturally shape into cubes or towers can be cool. It’s like nature has its own building blocks!
Pyrite is valuable for many reasons. It’s not just because it looks nice and could be gold. Scientists like it because it tells them about places on Earth very long ago and how things were there.
It isn’t as valuable as gold, but it has a unique sparkle that makes it fun to learn about and own.
Where you can find Pyrite in Indiana
You can find pyrite in the following places:
- Huntington Quarry
- Quimby Quarry
- Stephen Quarry
Quartz
Quartz is an interesting gemstone that comes in many forms. It has a special place in Indiana’s geological history. It comes in many different colors and shapes, like a crystal puzzle found in nature.
It’s one of the most common rocks on Earth and comprises silicon and oxygen atoms.
Quartz crystals are made when silicon dioxide molecules stick together in a repeating pattern. There are flaws in the crystal structure that cause it to change colors.
There are different kinds of quartz in Indiana. You can find amethyst, clear quartz, and smoky quartz. Some places where you can find these gems are in caves, along rivers, and even as tiny crystals in rocks.
Jewelry like rings, earrings, and bracelets often have quartz in it. It’s also used in electronics like computers and watches because they can make accurate electrical messages.
Quartz is a valued material in Indiana that adds beauty and usefulness to our lives.
Where you can find Quartz in Indiana
In Indiana, you can find quartz in many places, but mostly in these spots:
- France Stone Co. Quarry
- Highland Creek
Siderite
Siderite is mostly made up of iron carbonate crystals that can be brown, yellow, or green. Minerals that are high in iron mix with carbon dioxide and water to make siderite.
These elements combine over time, making siderite crystals. There are different kinds of siderite in Indiana. One of the most famous is “Spathic Iron,” which has a unique rhombohedral crystal shape.
You can find these minerals in caves and mines. Sometimes, they are found in the form of beautiful groups of crystals.
Siderite is valuable because it can be used in many fields. It’s an important place to get iron, which is used to make steel and other metals. Besides being a color in paints, siderite can also be used as a fertilizer in farming.
It’s a useful mineral with historical and current importance because it’s used in farming and manufacturing. It’s an important part of Indiana’s geological diversity and industrial history.
Where you can find Siderite in Indiana
Indiana is abundant in Siderite, mostly in these places:
- Big Pine Creek
- Coal Hollow
- Dunn Limestone Quarry
Sphalerite
Sphalerite is an exciting material that can be found in Indiana. It’s like a gem that’s been buried deep in the ground. Some types of sphalerite are brown, yellow, or black, and their main ingredient is zinc sulfide.
Sphalerite is made when hot fluids full of minerals rise from deep inside the Earth’s crust and hit zinc-containing rocks. There are sphalerite crystals that form when these fluids cool down.
There are different kinds of sphalerite in Indiana, mostly in places where zinc ore is found. You can find these minerals in mines, and they are often found with other important minerals, such as galena, which has lead in it.
Sphalerite is very valuable because it contains a lot of zinc, which is needed in many industrial processes. Iron, batteries, sunscreen, and even sunscreen are made with zinc. It’s also important for plant growth, which is why it’s used in fertilizers for farming.
Where you can find Sphalerite in Indiana
In Indiana, you can find a lot of sphalerite in places like the ones below:
- Big Pine Creek
- Erie Stone Co. Quarry
- Mud Pine Creek
- Huntington Quarry
Calcite
In Indiana, you can find calcite, which is an interesting mineral. It looks like bright art made by nature! Calcium carbonate is what calcite is made of, and it comes in many colors, from clear to red, blue, and green shades. The beautiful crystal forms of calcite are what make it stand out.
When water that has calcium carbonate dissolved changes, calcite forms. Sometimes this happens when water evaporates or when pressure and temps change.
It can be found in Indiana in limestone caves, where it decorates the walls and ceilings. The beautiful crystals of calcite can be seen in well-known caves like Marengo Cave and Squire Boone Caverns, which draw both explorers and scientists.
Calcite comes in many forms in Indiana. “Cave Calcite” is one of the most well-known. These calcite rocks grow well in limestone caves and show off their bright colors and unique shapes.
In addition to being pretty, calcite is also helpful. In fields like wastewater treatment, it neutralizes acids, and optical tools use it to make light more polarized. It’s an important part of many useful things, which makes calcite more valuable.
Where you can find Calcite in Indiana
There are many calcite sources in the state, some of which are:
- Huntington Quarry
- Mud Pine Creek
- Salt Creek
- Yellowwood State Forest
The Best Locations For Crystal Mining in Indiana
Here are some of the top Indiana locations for crystal hunting. We’ve had a lot of luck exploring them and finding unusual crystals, and we have no doubt you will, too!
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
Debolt Quarry
Richmond, Wayne County
The Debolt Quarry is worth visiting if you’re seeking a great place to collect crystals in the state. The unique history of this old limestone quarry, close to Rockport, dates back to the early 1900s. You can include this area on your list of top locations when finding gems in Indiana.
Originally a limestone quarry, the Debolt Quarry was mined for its high-quality limestone until the early 1970s. After that, it was abandoned and left to nature. Over the years, groundwater seeped in and formed beautiful crystal-filled cavities.
Geologically speaking, the Debolt Quarry is part of the Salem Limestone formation, which is known for its abundance of fossils and crystals. The area is also known for its karst topography, which means there are plenty of sinkholes, caves, and underground streams.
Where we found crystals at Debolt Quarry
In the entire Debolt Quarry area, we have collected various crystals, including apatite, calcite, and pyrite.
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France Stone Co. Quarry
Logansport, Cass County
Another fantastic location to find crystals in Indiana is the France Stone Co Quarry. This quarry, located near Cloverdale, has a long history dating back to the late 1800s when it was first mined for its high-quality limestone.
The quarry is no longer operational today, but it has become a popular spot for crystal hunters looking for unique and beautiful formations. The quarry has impressive crystal-filled cavities, many with stunning purple amethyst crystals. Geologically speaking, the France Stone Co Quarry is part of the St. Louis Limestone formation, which is known for its abundance of fossils and mineral deposits.
Crystal hunters will love exploring the France Stone Co Quarry, as there are plenty of opportunities to find amazing crystals and other geological wonders. The quarry is also a great spot for photography, with its towering limestone cliffs and beautiful natural surroundings.
Where we found crystals at France Stone Co Quarry
Crystals of apatite, calcite, pyrite, and quartz can be discovered in the whole area of the quarry. You can determine your crystals value by reading this article.
Highland Creek
Highland Creek is a popular spot for crystal hunters looking to explore the natural beauty of Indiana. This creek, located near the town of Martinsville, is home to various beautiful crystals that can be found along its banks and in the surrounding area.
The creek is a great spot to find crystals, as they can often be found in the gravel and sand along the banks. The surrounding area is also rich with crystal formations, including geodes and beautiful calcite crystals.
Crystal hunters will love exploring Highland Creek, as it offers a beautiful natural setting and plenty of opportunities to find unique and beautiful crystals. It’s also a great spot for hiking and wildlife watching, so you can make a day of it and enjoy all the area offers.
Where we found crystals at Highland Creek
Diamond, garnet, hematite, pyrite, quartz, sapphire, and topaz crystals are primarily found along the numerous glacial gravel bars of Highland Creek.
Maumee River
The Maumee River, which runs through the northern part of the state, has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s when it was an important trading route for Native Americans and early settlers.
Geologically speaking, the Maumee River is part of the Silurian and Devonian limestone formations, which are known for their abundance of fossils and minerals. The river is also known for its limestone cliffs and scenic beauty, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Crystal hunters will be pleased to know that the Maumee River is home to various beautiful crystals found in the gravel and sand along its banks. The river is also great for finding fossils, geodes, and other unique geological formations.
Where we found crystals at the Maumee River
The Maumee River’s gravels and glacial float contain agate and jasper crystals.
Mud Pine Creek
You’ll definitely want to add Mud Pine Creek to your list of must-visit spots. This creek, located near the town of Tell City, has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s when it was a hub for the timber industry. Geologically speaking, Mud Pine Creek is part of the Mansfield Formation, which is known for its abundance of fossils and mineral deposits.
The creek is also known for its beautiful natural setting, with towering limestone cliffs and lush green forests. Crystal hunters will be delighted to know that Mud Pine Creek is home to various beautiful crystals, including quartz and calcite formations.
Where we found crystals at Mud Pine Creek
We had the best luck finding pyrite crystals along the bluff of Mud Pine Creek.
Our Other Favorite Places For Crystal Hunting
Unsurprisingly, the state offers many amazing places to look for crystals and dig for geodes in Indiana. We’ve included a list of additional options worth thinking about:
Where you can find crystals for free in Indiana
Let’s start by discussing a few locations where you can look for free. Although many of the most beautiful areas have entrance fees, other places are still free to visit.
| County | Location |
| Bartholomew | Meshberger Stone Co Quarry for calcite and fluorite |
| Brown | County-wide in galcial drift gravels for quartz and topaz |
| Decatur | Area stone quarry for chalcopyrite |
| Harrison | Area quarries of Croyden for calcite, fluorite, and quartz |
| Huntington | Erie Stone Co Quarry for calcite and pyrite |
| Marion | All area creek beds for moonstone |
| Monroe | Area quarries of Bloomington for fluorite |
| Monroe | Quimby and Stephen Quarry for pyrite |
| Monroe | All area stream and creek gravels and glacial moraines for diamond, quartz, and topaz |
| Morgan | Small streams through glacial drift in Gold Creek for garnet and sapphire |
| Shelby | Cave Stone Co. Quarry for calcite and fluorite |
| Washington | Abandoned quarry for calcite and selenite |
Other great places to dig for crystals
If you don’t mind shelling out cash, you can look for crystals in these other great areas. The price may vary seasonally and possibly be free at times. You should contact them first before visiting these locations.
| County | Location |
| Fountain | Norgan Company Coal Mine for pyrite |
| Knox | Area coal mines for pyrite |
| Parke | Area dumps, cuts, excavations, banks, seams, and coal mines for pyrite and selenite |
| Parke | Area dumps and coal mines for pyrite |
How to find crystals in Indiana
Here are some more detailed suggestions for making the most of your time in a particular place to assist you in finding crystals. Some of the greatest locations to look for are as follows:
Quarries
If you’re a crystal hunter looking to strike it rich, searching in quarries is a great way to find beautiful and unique crystals. Quarries are locations where rocks, minerals, and other natural resources are extracted from the earth. As a result, they are often filled with stunning geological formations that can be hard to find in other locations.
One of the main advantages of searching in quarries is that they are often rich in mineral deposits. This means you’re more likely to find crystals and other geological wonders than in other areas. Quarries can also offer access to geological formations that would be difficult or impossible to find elsewhere.
Rivers and riverbanks
One of the main advantages of searching in rivers and riverbanks is that they are often rich in mineral deposits. Over time, water has eroded the surrounding rock and carried mineral deposits downstream, where they can settle along the banks of the river. This means you’re more likely to find crystals and other geological wonders in these locations than in other areas.
Of course, there are some special considerations when searching rivers and riverbanks. Knowing the water level and currents is important, as they can change rapidly and without warning. You’ll also want to ensure you have the right tools and equipment, such as a sturdy pair of waterproof boots and a good quality shovel, to help you safely extract crystals and other geological treasures from the riverbed.
Streams and creeks
Looking for a fun and exciting way to find some beautiful crystals? Searching in streams and creeks might just be the adventure you’re looking for. Streams and creeks are natural waterways that flow through the landscape, and their banks are often home to various stunning geological formations.
One of the main advantages of searching in streams and creeks is that they are often less crowded than other areas, making it easier to find unique and beautiful crystals. These waterways are also often home to other wildlife, making for a fun and interesting adventure.
Indiana Crystal Mining Laws And Regulations
In Indiana, recreational crystal hunting is allowed on public land if specific rules or regulations do not prohibit it. However, it is important to note that some private land may be off-limits for crystal hunting, so getting permission before exploring the private property is always a good idea.
Additionally, it’s important to follow all state and federal laws and regulations of the Indiana Department of Natural Resources when crystal hunting. This includes obtaining necessary permits and following guidelines for collecting and removing rocks and minerals from public lands.
It’s also important to practice responsible crystal hunting by leaving the area as you found it and avoiding damaging any natural formations or wildlife habitats. Always respect the environment and other individuals who may be enjoying the area.
The Best Crystal Shops In Indiana
Because of the state’s wide array of crystals, many of us love making small purchases to round out our collections. These are the best crystal shops we could find if you’re looking for unique and stunning specimens.
- All My Relations – 7218 Rockville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46214, United States
- The Crystal Lady – 192 W Joliet St Suite B, Crown Point, IN 46307, United States
- The Crystal Shop – 5845 Sunnyside Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46235, United States
- The Crystal Source – 110 S Van Buren St, Nashville, IN 47448, United States
- Crystal Wand Creations – 206 N Buckeye St, Kokomo, IN 46901, United States
- Geodes and Gemstones – 300 Hwy 35 N, Knox, IN 46534, United States
- Jox Rox Rock Shop – 4825 N Franklin Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46226, United States
- The Magick Candle – 6125 E Washington St, Indianapolis, IN 46219, United States
- My Inner Path – 1484 W 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46260, United States
- Rustic Rebels – 1809 W University Ave, Muncie, IN 47303, 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:
If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered please leave them in the comments below!
