Finding gems in California is easier than you might think for both beginners and experienced rockhounds. The state is full of accessible public land where you can successfully dig and sieve for valuable finds.

From dry river channels to specific areas in open quarries, the terrain offers many places to start your search. Knowing what visual cues to watch for and exactly where to look will help you fill your bucket with a great variety of beautiful gemstones.

We’ll help you navigate the state’s geography to find some of the most worthwhile hunting grounds. Get ready to explore and discover the surprising array of gorgeous gemstones that can be found here.

The Gemstones Found In California You Can Mine

The abundance of gorgeous gemstones in this state is a major benefit. There really aren’t many other states that have the variety of locations and gemstones available. We’ve created a ton of guides to help people discover gems near them so we know a good state when we see one! It’s possible to find both rare and uncommon gems in this area with the right knowledge and a little luck.

Benitoite

Benitoite is a rare and beautiful gemstone that is known for its beautiful blue color and high level of brilliance. It’s a mineral made up of barium, titanium, and silicate. It was first found in California, which makes it the official state gem.

Benitoite got its name from the county in California where it was first found, San Benito. The gem is found in serpentinite rocks and is often found near natrolite and neptunite veins.

Its beautiful blue color comes from the tiny amounts of titanium and other elements in its crystal structure. The color of the gem can be anywhere from light blue to deep indigo, just like sapphires.

As the state gem of California, it has special meaning for the area because it represents the state’s natural treasures. The gemstone is hard to find and doesn’t happen very often, which makes it a valuable item for collectors and a sought-after gem in the jewelry market.

Benitoite’s unique blue color and amazing brilliance give it a sense of wonder and elegance. This makes it a mineral and gemologist favorite that will always be interesting and valuable.

Where you can find Benitoite in California

You can find unique specimens of benitoite at the Benitoite Mining Company, among many places.

Serpentine

Serpentine is a group of minerals with a lot of different colors and patterns that make it look like the skin of a snake. It’s a water-soluble magnesium iron silicate mineral that forms in metamorphic rocks and hydrothermal veins, among other places.

It’s made when rocks with a lot of magnesium and iron are changed by high temperatures and pressure. Different types of serpentine have their own colors and textures because of how these elements came together and how much water was around when they formed.

It’s a very valuable stone because it can be used in many ways and has historical value. Due to its beautiful colors and ease of carving, serpentine has been used throughout history to make statues, decorative items, and building parts.

The different colors of serpentine, like green, yellow, and black, add to its beauty and make it possible to use it in many creative ways. It was also thought to have metaphysical properties that help people heal, feel safe, and connect with nature.

Where you can find Serpentine in California

Serpentine can be found in many places, among them are:

• Aurora Mine
• Escondido Canyon
• Point Sur
• Trinity River
• Watts Valley

Beryl

Beryl is celebrated for its wide range of colors and exceptional transparency. It’s a beryllium aluminum silicate mineral that forms in pegmatite veins and granite rocks when hot mineral-rich fluids mix with the stones, creating the conditions for crystals to grow.

What makes it stand out is that it can be different colors when different trace elements are present. It can be green, blue, or pink, like emerald, aquamarine, or morganite.

Its crystals can also grow very big, making them a popular material for beautiful gemstones and decorative pieces. This gemstone is one of the hardest, which makes it good for jewelry that you can wear every day.

Beryl’s clarity and range of colors make it a favorite among gem lovers, and it can be used in various styles and designs. Each type also has a different meaning. Emerald represents growth and renewal, aquamarine represents peace and communication, and morganite represents love and kindness

Where you can find Beryl in California

Beryl is easy to find in California, specifically in these locations:

• Cahuilla Mountains
• Hatfield Creek
• Oceanview and Pala Chief Gem Mines
• Ware Mine

Kunzite

Kunzite is a beautiful gemstone known for its soft pastel colors and transparency. It’s a type of spodumene, a lithium aluminum silicate mineral. Traces of manganese and other elements give it a soft pink to lilac color.

It’s made when hot mineral-rich fluids flow through granite pegmatite veins and mix with the rocks around them. This makes the perfect environment for spodumene crystals to grow.

Once made, its crystalline structure lets light pass through with exceptional clarity. This allows the colors to shine through mesmerizingly, catching the attention of gem lovers everywhere.

Kunzite is thought to have calming and healing properties that help keep emotions in check and make people feel more love and compassion. Some cultures believe it is related to the heart chakra and use it to strengthen emotional bonds and encourage self-love.

The fact that it is connected to water adds to its spiritual meaning, making it a popular gemstone for people who want peace and harmony. Its delicate beauty, reputed magical properties, and rarity make kunzite a valuable mineral and gem.

Where you can find Kunzite in California

Kunzite can be found in these areas in California:

• Oceanview Mine
• Tourmaline Queen Montain

Lepidolite

Lepidolite is known for its lilac, soft pink tones and connection with emotional healing and peace. It’s a secondary mineral that forms in the veins of granite pegmatite. It’s a mica mineral that’s high in lithium.

Manganese and other trace elements in the crystal lattice of lepidolite are responsible for its beautiful color. It’s a type of mica with a sheet-like structure that shims when light hits its surface.

Lepidolite is very valuable because it is thought to have healing properties and has metaphysical properties. It’s believed to bring emotional balance and help with stress, anxiety, and other problems.

People believe that it can help them feel calm and relaxed. This makes it a popular gemstone for people who want to calm their minds and find inner peace. It’s also linked to the heart chakra, which helps people feel more love and compassion for themselves and others.

Where you can find Lepidolite in California

Check out the following places to find unique pieces of lepidolite:

• Himalaya Tourmaline Mine
• Victor Mine
• Ware Mine

Morganite

Morganite is known for its soft pink to peachy colors and stunning shine. It’s a type of mineral beryl related to emerald and aquamarine. Its beautiful color comes from traces of manganese in its crystal structure.

It forms in pegmatite veins and granite rocks, where hot mineral-rich fluids mix with the surrounding stones, creating the conditions for beryl crystals to grow. The soft pink colors of the gem make people think of romance and tenderness, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other sentimental jewelry pieces.

The Rose beryl is a kind of morganite usually found in pegmatite rocks. Its delicate coloration and exceptional clarity make it highly sought after by gem collectors and jewelry designers.

People also think that the gem makes people more creative and helps them feel calm and peaceful. Because of its beautiful color and the belief that it can heal, morganite is a highly valued gemstone in the world of minerals and gemology. Its soft beauty has won the hearts of many.

Where you can find Morganite in California

You can locate morganite in the following areas:

• Himalaya Tourmaline Mine
• Lake Henshaw

Morganite is often mistaken for similar rocks and minerals, so to help you through this, here are some guides to help you tell it apart from others:

• Morganite vs Moissanite

Quartz

Quartz is a common mineral that can be used in many ways and comes in a wide range of colors and crystal shapes. It’s made up of atoms of silicon and oxygen that are arranged in a continuous framework, giving it exceptional hardness and durability.

It can form in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocls, among other geological places. It’s often made when hot mineral-rich fluids mix with the rocks around them. This leads to the slow crystallization of quartz in cracks and cavities.

The different colors like clear, smoky, rose, and amethyst, come from trace elements that were in the rock when it was made. Both smoky quartz and clear quartz are common in the state of California.

Quartz is highly valued because it can be used in different ways. This makes it one of the minerals that is used the most in many different fields. It’s not only a known gem, but it’s also an important part of making glass, ceramics, and electronics.

Across cultures, it’s considered as a stone of energy and balance. It’s thought to help with spiritual growth and bring clarity and focus. It can make intentions strongers and can be used in meditation and healing.

Where you can find Quartz in California

To find unique specimens of quartz, you can explore the places listed below:

• Feather River
• Lime Kiln Creek
• Little Acorn Mine
• Opal Hill Mine
• Slickrock Canyon

Amethyst

Amethyst is a purple gemstone that has been loved for centuries for its beauty and what people think is its magical powers. It’s a type of quartz, and the purple color comes from tiny amounts of iron in its crystal structure.

It’s made when hot mineral-rich fluid flow through hydrothermal veins and mixes with the rocks around them. This creates the perfect environment for quartz crystals to grow. Its purple color can range from lilac to a deep royal purple, which makes you think of royalty and spiritual enlightenment.

Throughout history, it has been highly valued for what are thought to be its magical properties. Ancient people thought it was a protective stone that kept away bad energies and helped them feel calm and peaceful.

Some people think of amethyst as a sign of spiritual wisdom and insight, and they use it in meditation to improve their intuition and sense of connection to higher realms. Its historical value as a stone of sobriety and clarity adds to its worth.

Whether loved for its stunning color or spiritual properties, amethyst will always be a fascinating and valuable gemstone in the world of minerals and gemology.

Where you can find Amethyst in California

We’ve created a complete guide on where to find amethysts in California. Once you’ve been to those places, you can also try finding them in these areas:

• Crystal Ridge
• Escondido Canyon
• Shelter Cove

Aquamarine

Aquamarine has soothing blue colors that remind people of the calm water of the ocean. It’s a type of mineral beryl related to emeralds. Its beautiful blue color comes from traces of iron in its crystal structure.

It forms in pegmatite veins and cavities in granitic rocks, where hot mineral-rich fluids mix with the minerals around them, making the perfect environment for beryl crystals to grow.

The gemstone has soft blue colors that range from pale sky blue to bright aqua. Both people who like gems and people who want jewelry are drawn to it. Ancient cultures believed it to be a stone of courage and protection, especially for travelers and sailors, offering safety during journeys over water.

Aquamarine is also associated with emotional healing and clarity, inspiring calmness, peace, and harmony. Its association with the water element further enhances its metaphysical properties, making it a favored gemstone among those seeking balance and tranquility.

If you want to know how much aquamarines are worth, check out our article.

Where you can find Aquamarine in California

Aquamarine can be found all over California, especially in the following places:

• Cahuilla Mt.
• Lake Henshaw
• Williamson Mine
• Tourmaline Queen Mountain

If you’re having a hard time distinguishing aquamarine from other rocks and minerals, refer to the guides below:

• Differences between aquamarine and turquoise
• Differences between aquamarine and blue topaz

Diamond

Diamond, the king of gemstones, has captured people’s hearts for hundreds of years with its incredible shine and beauty. It’s a valuable gem made of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice, which gives it a hardness and brilliance that are hard to beat.

Deep in the Earth’s mantle, carbon-rich materials go through a process that take billions of years and a lot of pressure and heat. The result is a beautiful gem called a diamond. When diamonds are made, volcanic eruptions send them to the surface of the Earth, where they can be found in kimberlite pipes and alluvial deposits.

In the 19th century, diamonds were found in the state in the area of Oroville, which is why the state is known for that. Most of these diamonds were alluvial, meaning water carried them from their source rocks to their present locations.

Their high value comes from how rare they are and their timeless beauty. This makes them a status symbol and a treasure that will be passed down from generation to generation.

Diamonds are the most valuable and fascinating gemstones because of how they were formed in the earth, how beautiful they are, and what they mean to different cultures.

Where you can find Diamond in California

You can find Diamonds all around California, particularly in these places:

• Jackson’s Gulch
• Thompson’s Flat
• Yankee Hill

Garnet

Garnet has a wide range of colors valued throughout history for its charm and versatility. It’s a group of silicate minerals with the same crystal structure but different chemical compositions.

This gives them a beautiful range of colors, including deep reds, bright oranges, striking greens, and mesmerizing purples. Garnets can form in many types of rocks, such as metamorphic, sedimentary, and igneous.

When minerals high in aluminum and silica come into contact with other elements, they change into garnets, which are beautiful gemstones. The name of this gem is thought to come from the Latin word “granatum,” which means “pomegranate,” because it looks like the fruit’s bright red seeds.

They are appealing for more than just how they look. It’s valued for what it can do for you and what it means in history. Garnets are thought to increase passion, creativity, and emotional balance in many cultures. People think of them as protective stones that stand for love and loyalty.

It has been used in jewelry and artifacts for a long time, from ancient Egyptian amulets to royal regalia from the Middle Ages. This shows garnet’s lasting value and cultural significance.

Where you can find Garnet in California

Garnets are abundant in California, especially in the places listed below:

• Santa Rite Peak
• San Carlos Mine
• Shady Run
• Slick Rock Canyon
• Traverse Creek

Jasper

Jasper is known for its deep, earthy colors that remind people of beautiful landscapes and other natural things. It’s a type of chalcedony, which is a microcrystalline form of quartz. Its different colors came from impurities and minerals when it was made.

Slow mineral deposition in sedimentary rocks, where layers of silica-rich materials slowly build up over time. Each piece is unique because of the patterns and colors made by the layers.

One remarkable specimen in California is the Ocean Jasper, which features stunning combinations of blues, greens, and whites that resemble the mesmerizing colors of the ocean and coastal landscapes.

Some think that jasper can connect people to the earth’s energies and help them feel more balanced and harmonious. Because of this, it’s a popular gemstone for people who want to learn more about the natural world.

If you’re curious about jasper’s price, we’ve created an article with all the information you need to know.

Where you can find Jasper in California

Jasper can be found in a lot of places in California, especially in the following places:

• El Paso Mountains
• Point Sur 
• Red Rock Canyon
• Stonyford Creek
• Sue-Meg State Park

Moonstone

Moonstone is admired for how it plays with light and looks like it came from another world. It’s a type of feldspar, a group of minerals that includes sunstone and labradorite.

The shimmering light that seems to move across the surface of the moonstone is called “adularescence.” It’s caused by a process called “schiller” or “sheen.” This optical effect happens when light hits the thin layers of feldspar in the stone.

It’s made in pegmatite veins and metamorphic rocks, where molten rock cools and lets feldspar minerals form into beautiful gems.

Moonstone is often linked to feminine energy and the phases of the moon, making it a famous stone for people interested in spirituality and intuition. It’s thought to help keep your emotions in check, boost your creativity, and give you a sense of inner harmony.

Some cultures believe that it’s a protective stone that can bring luck and love. Its mesmerizing shine and reputation as a mysterious and magical stone help keep its value and appeal in the mineral and gem world.

Where you can find Moonstone in California

Moonstone is abundant in California, mainly in the following areas:

• Redondo Beach
• Sue-Meg State Park

Opal

Opal is a mysterious-looking gem known for the stunning way its colors dance and shimmer when light hits its internal structures. It’s an amorphous, hydrated form of silica with different amounts of water, which gives its iridescence.

They are made when silica-rich water seeps into cracks and holes in sedimentary rocks. Over time, the water evaporates, leaving behind silica spheres that scatter light and create a mesmerizing show of colors.

The range of opal colors can be bright blue, lively green, fiery red, and brilliant orange.

One variety that stands out is the fire opal, which has bright orange to red colors that look like the warm glow of a flame. They are made in volcanic rocks, and their bright colors are caused by iron oxide and other impurities.

People often think of opal as a source of creativity, inspiration, and emotional healing. Some cultures believe it can bring good luck and is a stone of hope and love. They are known for their ties to the spiritual world, making them a favorite among people interested in minerals and gems.

Where you can find Opal in California

You can find a lot of opals in California, particularly in these places:

• Chocolate Mountains
• Hooten Ranch
• Opal Hill Mine
• Red Rock Canyon
• Sailor Flat

Turquoise

Turquoise is a water-soluble phosphate mineral that forms when water moves through rocks rich in copper and reacts with phosphate and aluminum minerals.

The gem’s color comes from how these elements are put together. It’s often found in dry, arid places because the dryness helps keep the delicate color of the stone.

The history of this gemstone goes back to ancient civilizations, where it was used to decorate jewelry, ceremonial objects, and even burial masks. It stood for protection, wisdom, and a connection to the divine.

Turquoise is a protective stone in many cultures that helps people be strong and brave. It’s thought to help people feel calm and peaceful, improve communication, and control their emotions.

It’s also thought to have healing powers. It has been used for centuries in alternative medicine to treat physical and spiritual illnesses.

Turquoise is a gemstone that has always been interesting and valuable because of how it looks and what it means to different cultures.

Where you can find Turquoise in California

Turquoise can be located in California in these places:

• Chocolate Mountains
• Lake Havasu
• Last Chance Range
• Silver Mom Mines

To help you tell turquoise apart from other very similar rocks and minerals, refer to our guides below:

• Turquoise vs Aquamarine

Malachite

Malachite is a green gemstone with a long history that has fascinated people for thousands of years. It’s a mineral made of copper carbonate and hydroxide. It comes from the weathering of copper ores.

It stands out because of the swirling patterns and bright shades of green that make it look like a lush forest and the beauty of nature. The name “malachite” comes from the Greek word “malakos,” which means “soft.” This refers to the stone’s low hardness, which lets skilled artists carve intricate sculptures and jewelry.

Beyond its eye-catching beauty, malachite is highly valued for its historical and metaphysical significance. The ancient Egyptians used it as a decorative stone and bright green paint pigment.

In many cultures, it is thought to be protective and healing, able to take in negative energies and help people feel more balanced. Its connection to the Earth element adds to its grounding qualities, making it a popular gemstone among crystal lovers.

Where you can find Malachite in California

There are many malachite specimens in California, including the following places:

• Blue Bell Mine
• Copper Prince Mine
• Hughes Mine
• Pocahontas Mine

Obsidian

Obsidian, sometimes called “nature’s glass,” is an attractive volcanic glass that has existed since ancient times. It’s made when lava cools down too quickly for crystals to grow, giving it a smooth, shiny, and jet-black look.

This fascinating stone isn’t just black. Depending on what trace elements are in it, it can show a range of mesmerizing colors, such as iridescent blues, greens, and gold.

Many different kinds are found in the geologically varied landscapes of California, and each has its appeal. One popular type is Rainbow Obsidian, known for the beautiful way the light plays with the colors on its surface. The radiance of this type comes from tiny minerals mixed in the glassy structure.

Obsidian has been used for making tools, weapons, and decorative items for thousands of years because it’s smooth and has sharp edges. It’s still a popular material for making knives and blades because it’s very sharp and lasts long. This is why obsidian’s value is worth knowing.

It’s thought to have protective powers and is used to ground oneself and protect oneself from negative energy. Its spiritual meaning is boosted by its connection to the earth. This makes it a good choice for people who want balance and clarity.

If you find yourself struggling to differentiate obsidian from similar rocks and minerals, our expertly crafted guides are here to lend a helping hand, making the identification process a breeze:

• Obsidian vs. Onyx

Where you can find Obsidian in California

Obsidian is common in California, especially in these places:

• Gem Hill
• Glass Mountain
• Modoc National Forest
• Pisgah Crater

Rhodochrosite

Rhodochrosite is known for its bright pink to red colors and exciting patterns. A manganese carbonate mineral forms when hot, mineral-rich fluids mix with other rocks and minerals in hydrothermal veins.

Manganese gives rhodochrosite its bright colors, ranging from soft pastel pinks to deep ruby reds. These colors make you think of roses in bloom and romantic sunsets. This is often used in jewelry decorations because it looks shiny and has a pretty color.

Besides its beauty, rhodochrosite has essential cultural and spiritual meanings. Ancient people thought it was a stone of love and compassion that helped heal emotions and made people more empathetic.

Some cultures think it relates to the heart chakra, which helps keep relationships in harmony and balance. It’s also considered a stone of happiness and positivity that helps people feel good about themselves.

This gemstone has a lasting value and appeal in the world of minerals and gemology because of its beauty and the way it can be used to heal.

Don’t let the confusion overwhelm you! Our handy guides are here to assist you in distinguishing rhodochrosite from other rocks and minerals, ensuring you never make a mistaken identification again:

• Rhodochrosite vs. Rhodonite

Where you can find Rhodochrosite in California

You can find many different rhodochrosite specimens at the Woods Mine in Humboldt County.

Tourmaline

Tourmaline is known for its striking range of colors. This makes it a favorite among gem collectors and people who like to look at stones. It’s a boron silicate mineral that forms in pegmatite veins where hot fluids full of minerals mix with the rocks around them, making the right conditions for tourmaline to crystallize.

It’s distinct from other stones because it has pleochroism, which means that it looks different from all angles. This natural kaleidoscope of colors has lush greens, electric blues, and even colors that look like watermelon slices.

This delicate and girly gemstone has beautiful shades of pink, from light pastels to deep magenta, which resembles flowers in bloom. California is also home to the colorful Watermelon Tourmaline, which looks like the fruit because it’s green on the outside and pink in the middle.

It’s thought to have many healing properties, such as balancing emotions, boosting creativity, and building self-confidence. Some cultures believe tourmaline can protect against harmful energies and keep you grounded.

Where you can find Tourmaline in California

In California, there are a lot of tourmalines, particularly in these areas:

• Benitoite Mining Company
• Hatfield Creek
• Lake Henshaw
• Tourmaline Queen Mountain

Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining in California

These are the areas that we have discovered as being the best in the state for mining gems. If you want to learn more about gem mining, you have to check out these notable locations. Additionally, we offered suggestions for spots where kids can learn and enjoy the thrill of gem hunting.

Himalaya Tourmaline Mine

CA-76, Santa Ysabel, CA, United States, California

The Himalaya Tourmaline Mine is one of the world’s largest and most productive tourmaline mines. The mine is owned by the Himalaya Mining Company, which was established in 1974. They have been producing a variety of gemstones for more than 40 years. It produces many colors, including pink, green, blue, yellow, purple, and black tourmaline, and other gemstones.

The mine offers tours to gem hunters from all over the world who come to experience this amazing natural wonder. They can view the different types of tourmalines being mined as well as explore the site itself.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Himalaya Tourmaline Mine

The following gemstones are typically found in this area:

• Garnet
• Lepidolite
• Morganite
• Quartz
• Spessartine Garnet
• Topaz
• Tourmaline

It can be very easy to confuse some of the more common gems that are found here, so we’ve put together a few guides to telling some of them apart:

• Morganite vs Moissanite

The Best Time To Visit Himalaya Tourmaline Mine

The best time to visit the Himalaya Tourmaline Mine in California is between April and October. The mine is open to gem miners seven days a week, making it the ideal time to dig for gems. The weather is usually mild and pleasant during this time, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the mine and its surroundings. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and other supplies for your day trip.

Sue-Meg State Park

4150 Patricks Point Dr, Trinidad, CA 95570, United States

Sue-Gem State Park is located in the Sierra Nevada. It is situated in the picturesque town of Mariposa and offers gem miners a chance to explore the area’s natural beauty. The park features a variety of activities and allows searching for precious gems and minerals.

When we visited this area, they offered us to pan for gold in the river or use sluice boxes to sift through sand and gravel to find colorful gemstones. The park’s knowledgeable staff provided us instruction on prospecting techniques, geology, and other topics related to gemstones.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Sue-Meg State Park

This area is rich in priceless gemstones. The following are some of the hidden gems found here:

• Agate
• Jadeite
• Jasper
• Moonstone
• Pyrite

The Best Time To Visit Sue-Meg State Park

The best time to visit Sue-Meg State Park in California is spring and fall. The summer tends to be quite hot, while the winter can be pretty cold.

Aurora Mine

Idria Peak, San Benito Co., CA, United States

Aurora Mine is a unique and exciting way to explore the outdoors. Gem hunters can experience the thrill of prospecting for precious gems while learning about the history and geology of the area. The mine offers a variety of activities, including searching for gemstones and panning for gold.

We enjoyed the natural beauty of the surrounding area with hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. With its rich history and abundant resources, Aurora Mine is an excellent destination for families, groups, or individuals looking for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Aurora Mine

There are many rare gemstones in this location. Here are a few of the gems we’ve discovered:

• Calcite
• Cinnabar
• Serpentine

The Best Time To Visit Aurora Mine

The best time to visit Aurora Mine in California is during the late spring and early summer months. From May to August, temperatures are mild, and the days are sunny. The mine is located in a remote area, so it’s essential to bring plenty of supplies, such as food, water, and warm clothing. Additionally, check with the local authorities before your visit, as there may be restrictions due to fire danger or other safety concerns.

Oceanview And Pala Chief Gem Mines – Great for kids

37304 Magee Rd, Pala, CA 92059, United States

Oceanview and Pala Chief Gem Mines are two gemstone mining sites in San Diego County. They offer gem miners an opportunity to search for various gemstones. You can purchase buckets of material to search through or rent mining equipment such as sieves and shovels to help them find their treasures. Professional gemologists are also available onsite to help identify any stones that may have been found.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Oceanview And Pala Chief Gem Mines

This area is home to several gemstones. Here are some of the gemstones found here:

• Amethyst
• Aquamarine
• Beryl
• Chalcedony
• Citrine
• Garnet
• Lepidolite
• Morganite
• Peridot
• Quartz
• Spodumene
• Topaz
• Tourmaline

The Best Time To Visit Oceanview And Pala Chief Gem Mines

The best time to visit Oceanview and Pala Chief Gem Mines in California is mid-May to mid-September. The weather during this period is usually warm and sunny, making it ideal for digging gems. Additionally, the summer months tend to have fewer crowds and more manageable temperatures.

Benitoite Mining Company – Great for kids

48242 Los Gatos Creek Rd, Coalinga, CA 93210, United States

Benitoite Mining Company is a family-owned business based in San Benito County, California. It is one of the few companies to specialize in mining the rare and precious gemstone benitoite. The company has been in operation since the early 1900s and has become known for its high-quality products and commitment to sustainability.

The company mines benitoite from a deposit near New Idria and processes it into jewelry, crystals, and other gemstone products. Benitoite Mining Company works closely with local communities to ensure that their operations are environmentally responsible and have minimal impact on the surrounding environment.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Benitoite Mining Company

This spot is famous for its production of the rare gemstone, Benitoite. Other gemstones found here include:

• Barite
• Garnet
• Quartz
• Sapphire
• Tourmaline

The Best Time To Visit Benitoite Mining Company

The mine is open from April through October and gem hunters should plan their trip accordingly. The weather is typically sunny and warm during these times, making it easier to access the remote mine site and enjoy the outdoors.

Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in California

In addition to the information we’ve provided above, this state has even more fantastic locations for real gem mining. For seasoned gem hunters, these places are ideal:

• Agate Flat – Agate, Bloodstone, Jasper
• Alum Rock Park – Tephoroite
• Crystal Springs Reservoir – Chromite
• El Paso Mountains – Agate, Jasper, Opal, 
• Escondido Canyon Park – Agate, Amethyst, Bloodstone, Jasper
• Gem Hill – Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper, Obsidian
• Glass Mountain – Obsidian
• Golden Jubilee Mine – Pyrite, Quartz
• Jade Cove Big Sur – Jade, Nephrite, Serpentine
• Lake Havasu – Agate, Calcite, Jasper, Quartz, Turquoise
• Little Acorn Mine – Epidote, Quartz, Smoky Quartz, Scheelite
• Modoc National Forest – Obsidian 
• Opal Hill Mine – Opal, Quartz
• Riverside Chrome Mine – Chromite
• Rouse Hill – Amazonite, Idocrase, Rose Quartz, Tourmaline
• Tick Canyon – Agate, Bloodstone, Chalcedony
• Tourmaline Queen Mountain – Apatite, Aquamarine, Beryl, Quartz, Rose Quartz, Tourmaline
• Victor Mine – Albite, Lepidolite, Orthoclase
• Ware Mine – Beryl, Lepidolite, Quartz, Topaz, Tourmaline
• Wolf Creek – Rhodonite
• Woods Mine – Rhodochrosite

The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in California

There are more kid-friendly public gem mining sites in our state where kids may have fun and learn about gems. The following are noteworthy destinations.

• Coyote Point Recreation Area – 1701 Coyote Point Dr, San Mateo, CA 94401, United States
• Gold Rush Mining Company Adventures – 40016 Big Bear Blvd, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315, United States
• Julian Mining Company – 4444 CA-78, Julian, CA 92036, United States

California Gem Mining Laws And Regulations

The State of California does not have any laws that regulate gem hunting activities on public land. However, the California Department of Parks and Recreation does recommend that people who plan to collect minerals or rocks on public lands observe some guidelines.

If you are collecting material from a state park, obtain written permission from the park superintendent before collecting any material. Gem hunters can only collect a small amount of material and must not disturb cultural or historical sites. The use of heavy equipment, motorized vehicles, and explosives are not allowed while hunting for gems. Gem hunters must respect private property rights and shall not collect material from private land without permission from the landowner

For more information about California’s gem mining laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Parks and Recreation site through the link above.

Additional places to mine for gems 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:

• Gem mining in Arizona
• Gem mining in Nevada
• Gem mining in Oregon

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