Getting out to search for your own gems in Illinois is a great way to connect with the land’s deep natural history. There are plenty of public and private areas where you can give it a try, from riverbanks to old mining sites.
Collectors often focus on regions that once saw heavy mining or contain ancient deposits full of interesting material. Doing a bit of homework on which minerals are common and where they’re found makes all the difference.
Whether you plan to cut and polish your finds or simply keep them as part of your growing collection, the search itself is part of the fun.
Because the geology here is so varied, knowing how to spot certain minerals means you can come back with a colorful mix of the state’s best gemstones.
- The extensive local experience and understanding of our team
- Input from several gem hunting groups and organizations
- The accessibility of the mining locations
- Safety and potential hazards when collecting
- Private and public locations
- A desire to include locations for both experienced gem hunters and those who are just starting out
Overall, we’ve been able to put together a great list that anyone can use to locate a lot of beautiful gems.
The Gemstones Found In Illinois You Can Mine
In this article, we’ll share with you our favorite mine sites so you can select the best one for you. Aside from Illinois, we also prepared different guides to help you locate gem mines near you wherever you are. Let the fun and excitement of gem hunting begin!
Pearl
Pearls are real-life treasures that form inside living creatures. They come to life inside oysters, mussels, and some other types of shellfish. When a small bit of foreign material gets stuck inside the shell, the creature coats it in layers of a substance called nacre. Over time, these layers build up to create a pearl!
Now, most people ask, is pearl expensive? The answer is it can be! It’s not only because they are beautiful, but each pearl is unique and takes a long time to form. In fact, for centuries, pearls have been a symbol of elegance and luxury.
Luckily, you can find freshwater pearls in our state. While they’re not as common as the saltwater pearls that you might see in jewelry stores, freshwater pearls are unique and valuable in their own right. They might be slightly less round and shiny, but they come in a variety of beautiful shapes and colors.
Where you can find Pearls in Illinois
You can find lovely pearls at the Mackinaw River and its tributaries in McLean and Tazewell Counties, as well as the Panther Creek and its tributaries in Woodford County.
Smithsonite
Smithsonite is a real show-stopper in the world of gems. This cool character forms in oxidized zinc ore deposits where zinc has been exposed to the air and weathered over time.
This gem’s rich colors and shiny surface make it a favorite among mineral collectors. It’s a treasure to find and a joy to display! But that’s not all. Smithsonite is also an important source of zinc, which is super useful in our everyday lives.
Fortunately, you can find smithsonite in Illinois, although it’s not very common. It comes in a wide variety of colors: blue, green, pink, brown, yellow, or even white. Plus, it often has a shiny or pearly luster that makes it super eye-catching.
Where you can find Smithsonite in Illinois
Explore the area mines of Golconda and the McClellan Mine in Pope County if you want to find smithsonite.
Agate
Agate, with its swirling colors and layers, is truly a marvel to behold! It forms when water rich in silica seeps into pockets within rocks. Over time, this silica solidifies into layers of microcrystalline quartz, creating the lovely banded patterns we associate with agate.
What influences agate’s value and price, you ask? Well, besides their obvious beauty, agates are durable and relatively easy to polish, which makes them ideal for jewelry, decorative items, and even practical items like paperweights and bookends.
But that’s not all! Many cultures value agates for their perceived healing properties. Some people believe that it can balance energy, protect against negativity, and even bring good luck!
Where you can find Agate in Illinois
If you’re in search of agate, you can look for it in the following areas:
- Thebes area gravel pits along the Mississippi River in Alexander County
- Local gravel pits of Warsaw, Hancock County
- East Dubuque area gravel pits in Jo Daviess County
Pyrite
Pyrite, often known as “fool’s gold,” is an intriguing mineral that looks like it’s made of golden treasures!
It forms in a variety of environments, like sedimentary rocks, and even in coal beds and veins. This occurs when sulfur in groundwater combines with iron in rocks, creating pyrite’s shiny, metallic cubes.
This gem may not be actual gold, but pyrite’s value is not one to set aside, too. It’s used in the production of sulfuric acid, an important chemical used in many industries. On top of this, pyrite’s golden luster and unique cubic crystals make it a hit with mineral collectors, jewelry enthusiasts, and those who love decorative items.
Where you can find Pyrite in Illinois
To find pyrite here, you can visit places like:
- Coal City area strip coal mines in Grundy County
- Mahoning No. 3 Mine in Hardin County
- McClellan Mine in Pope County
Chalcopyrite
Chalcopyrite is one of those gems that will grab your attention with its brilliant colors! Often found in hydrothermal veins or in sedimentary and igneous rocks, it forms when copper, iron, and sulfur atoms come together in just the right way.
Chalcopyrite is not just pretty to look at, but it’s incredibly valuable too! It’s the most important copper ore on Earth. As you know, copper is used in everything from the wires that keep our lights on to the coins in our pockets.
Aside from its industrial use, chalcopyrite’s unique coloring makes it a favorite among mineral collectors. Its specimens are mostly known for their brass-yellow color that has a metallic luster. Over time, it can develop a tarnish that gives it a variety of colors, which can look like a peacock’s feathers!
Where you can find Chalcopyrite in Illinois
To find chalcopyrite, you can visit the area mines in Golconda, Pope County.
Calcite
Calcite is not only abundant but also incredibly versatile in form and function. Forming mostly from the shells of marine organisms or from hot spring deposits, it takes shape when calcium, carbon, and oxygen atoms bond together in a crystal structure.
The value of calcite is pretty much based on its many uses. It’s used in construction materials, like cement and concrete. Even our roads have it in them! This gem is also a hit with collectors, thanks to its wide range of shapes and colors. One of its types, called “Iceland Spar,” is even used in optical instruments because of its unique light-bending properties.
In our state, calcite is pretty common in limestone and dolomite rocks. It can occur in a bunch of different shapes and colors: clear, white, yellow, or even blue or red!
Where you can find Calcite in Illinois
You can find calcite in different spots in our state, such as:
- Railroad Creek in Hancock County
- Warsaw Formation area in Hancock County
- Apple River area lead mine dumps in Jo Daviess County
Quartz
Made when silicon and oxygen atoms join together in a crystal structure, quartz can form in a variety of geological conditions, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
There are many factors that affect quartz’ value, and its uses are one of the most important of them. Its hardness and resistance to weathering make it super useful in glass making and construction. Even some of the sand on our beaches is made from broken-down quartz!
But quartz isn’t all about being tough and practical. Its different colors and crystal shapes make it a big hit with mineral collectors and jewelry makers. Some folks even believe different types of quartz have special healing properties.
Mistaking quartz for other rocks and minerals is a common occurrence, but fear not! Our user-friendly guides are designed to help you easily differentiate it from its look-alikes:
Where you can find Quartz in Illinois
To find quartz, you can visit the following different areas in Hancock County:
- Crystal Glen Creek
- Nauvoo State Park
- Warsaw Formation area
Tourmaline
Tourmaline, with its rainbow of colors, is like a fireworks display! This dazzling gemstone forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, where high-pressure and high-temperature conditions let elements like boron, aluminum, and silicon come together to create this beautiful crystal.
This gem’s wide range of colors makes it highly sought after for jewelry. A piece of tourmaline jewelry can showcase nearly every color you can imagine!
But it’s not all about the looks as it also has other unique properties. It’s pyroelectric, which means it can generate an electrical charge when heated. This property makes it useful in certain scientific and industrial applications.
Where you can find Tourmaline in Illinois
You can find tourmaline in the gravel pits of Road Fill Corporation in Kane County.
Marcasite
Marcasite often gets the spotlight in the world of jewelry, but don’t be fooled by its glamorous role— this gem has humble beginnings. It forms when iron sulfide minerals are subjected to low temperatures and pressures, often in sedimentary rocks like shale and limestone, or in hydrothermal veins.
But why is it so loved? In jewelry, marcasite is appreciated for its metallic luster and unique crystal forms. And while it might not have the high-value status of diamonds or gold, jewelry made out of it has a unique, antique charm that’s enjoyed worldwide.
The marcasite that you can find in our state is similar to that found elsewhere, usually presenting as a pale bronze or silver color, and often forming interesting, angular crystal shapes.
Where you can find Marcasite in Illinois
Spot marcasite when you visit and explore the following areas:
- Midland Coal Company Rapatee No. 5 Strip Mine in Fulton County
- Coal mine dumps in Gardner, Grundy County
- Terre Haute area gravel pits and mine dumps in Henderson County
Jasper
Jasper is a type of chalcedony that’s known for its array of colors and patterns. It forms from silica-rich fluids that fill spaces within rocks. Over time, these fluids harden into chalcedony, and if there are other minerals present, they can color the chalcedony to create jasper.
The value of jasper is not only because of its beauty. Known as a stone of courage and wisdom, it’s been used since ancient times for its believed healing properties and protective energies. On top of that, its hardness and durability make it perfect for carving and shaping into beautiful jewelry and decorative items.
Each piece of jasper found in Illinois is unique, showcasing a variety of patterns that are like the fingerprints of Mother Nature herself.
Where you can find Jasper in Illinois
If you want to find jasper here, you can explore places such as:
- Abandoned gravel pit in Hamilton, Hancock County
- Bishop Hill area in Henry County
- Materials Service Sand and Gravel Dycore Corporation in McHenry County
Diamond
Diamonds are born deep, deep under the earth’s surface, over 100 miles down, where it’s incredibly hot and there’s a ton of pressure. Carbon atoms get squeezed together under these extreme conditions to form these gems. Volcanic eruptions then bring diamonds closer to the surface.
Diamonds are immensely valued for a few reasons. They’re the hardest known material on earth— perfect for cutting tools and, of course, enduring jewelry. Their amazing sparkle, or “fire,” makes them highly sought after for adornment.
But it’s not just about beauty and hardness. Diamonds are also used in scientific research and technology. For instance, diamond-tipped tools are used for precision cutting and drilling.
Where you can find Diamond in Illinois
We recommend exploring the following areas to locate diamonds in our state:
- Fayville area streambeds in Alexander County
- Rayse Creek in Jefferson County
- Troublesome Creek in McDonough County
Because diamonds’ features are somewhat similar to other gemstones, it’s often interchanged with other rocks and minerals. So to help you tell it apart from others, here are a few guides that we created:
Fluorite
Fluorite is a truly captivating mineral, known for its wide range of vibrant colors and stunning crystal shapes. It’s actually formed deep within the Earth when hot, mineral-rich fluids fill cracks and cavities in rocks. Over time, these fluids cool down and crystallize into fluorite.
Illinois, in particular, is famous for its own type of fluorite, affectionately known as “Illinois Blue” for its unique, vibrant blue-purple color. Our state is one of the largest producers of this mineral in the U.S. In fact, fluorite is Illinois’ official state mineral.
This mineral is not just a pretty face, though! It’s incredibly useful, too. It’s a key ingredient in the manufacture of steel and other metals, and it’s also used in the production of a wide range of chemical products. Truly, fluorite’s value is understated as it’s a critical part of many industries that keep our world running.
Where you can find Fluorite in Illinois
You can find fluorite if you explore the following sites in our state:
- Cave-in-Rock area in Hardin County
- Mines and dumps in the Rosiclare area, Hardin County
- Golconda area mines in Pope County
Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining In Illinois
Below are our five favorite places to gem mines here based on the variety of gems that can be found in each location and on the amount of fun you’ll have discovering them.
The first three we discussed here are targeted towards adult who are into real gem mining, while the last two will be perfect for kids and families who want to have a blast while searching for gems.
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
Cave-in-Rock State Park
1 New State Park Rd. Cave-in-Rock IL 62919
Cave-in-Rock State Park, located in Hardin County and along the banks of the Ohio River, is known not only for its beautiful views and abundant wildlife, but also for offering some of the best gem mining opportunities in the region.
It was established in 1929 and was named after a large rock shelter that had been carved out by the river over time. Today, you can search for gems at several locations throughout the park.
You can also purchase buckets of gravel from vendors and search through them for gems.
The Types of Gems Found In The Cave-in-Rock State Park
This place abounds in diverse gemstones, both rare and more common. Most abundant among these are the following:
- Barite
- Calcite
- Cerussite
- Fluorite
- Pyrite
- Smithsonite
- Witherite
Confusing gems with each other is a common problem, but fear not! Our user-friendly guides will give you all the information you need to tell specific gems apart:
The Best Time To Visit Cave-in-Rock State Park
If you have plans to visit this place, the best time to do so would be during the summer months of June, July, and August. The weather is usually warm during these months, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Additionally, the park typically opens its gem mining area during these months.
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Minerva Mine No. 1
Rock Township, IL
Minerva Mine No. 1, located in the town of Metropolis about two miles east of the Ohio River, has been in operation since the mid-19th century. It is known for its production of a unique variety of Quartz crystal called Smoky Quartz.
To this day, the mine is still producing different kinds of gemstones. If you visit this place, avail of the opportunity to search for gems on your own or take part in the mine’s guided tours.
This is among the favorite spots of crystal hunters to search for crystals in Illinois.
The Types of Gems Found In The Minerva Mine No. 1
This mine has a variety of gemstones, but it’s abundant with the following:
- Barite
- Strontanite
- Smoky Quartz
The Best Time To Visit Minerva Mine No. 1
It’s best to visit and explore this place during spring and summer months because the weather is warm and dry. These conditions make it easier to search for gems. Additionally, during this time of year, the ground is more likely to be dry, making it easier to reach the mine.
Golden Gulch Gem Mine – Great for kids
17250 Weber Road Lockport, IL 60441
Located in the small town of Elburn about 40 miles west of Chicago, Golden Gulch Gem Mine has been in business since 1992. The area was mined back then for its abundant mineral resources.
In 1992, the current owners purchased the property and began operating as a gem mine. Today, you can enjoy a variety of activities for families and groups, including gem mining, prospecting, rock hounding, gold panning, fossil hunting, and more.
The Types of Gems Found In The Golden Gulch Gem Mine
This mine is great for families and kids who have an inkling towards exploring places and discovering gemstones on their own since it has a rich variety gemstones.
The Best Time To Visit Golden Gulch Gem Mine
Visiting here with kids? The best time to do it would be during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warmer and more conducive to mining activities.
Many people also find that the warmer temperatures make it easier to work with the equipment and search for gems. Additionally, the daylight hours are longer during these months, which allows for more time to explore and search for gems.
Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm – Great for kids
13341 West 151st Street Homer Glen, IL 60491
Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm is a family-owned farm that has been operating since the 1950s. The farm offers a variety of activities, including gem mining among others.
If you visit this place to experience searching for gems, you will sift through bags of sand to find different kinds of gemstones in our state. The gem mining experience is offered from spring through fall each year.
The Types of Gems Found In The Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm
Here, kids will have a blast getting the chance to discover different kinds of gemstone that are naturally found in our region. For a list of the possible finds here, refer to the list of rare and more common gems above.
The Best Time To Visit Bengtson’s Pumpkin Farm
If you’re planning to visit here with your kids, the best time would be during the summer months, from May through September. The farm offers gem mining activities on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to 4pm.
It is recommended that you call ahead to confirm availability before visiting.
Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in Illinois
Lucky for you, our favorite places are not the only gem mine sites here. Apart from the ones we’ve shared above, here are some more great places that might just give you the gem mining experience of a lifetime.
- Rosiclare – Calcite, Fluorite, Sphalerite
- Sparta – Pyrite
- East Brooklyn – Marcasite, Pyrite
- Hamilton – Agate, Jasper
- Fayville – Agate, Diamond, Jasper
- Cordova – Agate
- Bishop Hill – Agate, Jasper
- Galena – Cerussite
- Thebes- Agate, Jasper
- Palestine – Siderite
- Elizabethtown – Aragonite
- Mt. Vernon – Diamond
We know gemstone confusion can be annoying, but with these practical tips, you’ll be able to tell one gem from another in no time:
The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in Illinois
For families wanting to expose their children to the thrill and adventure of gem hunting, here are some of the best family-friendly locations that both you and your kids will enjoy visiting.
- Driftstone Pueblo – 702 W Tower Rd. Saint Elmo , IL 62458
- Richardson Adventure Farm – Spring Grove, IL
- Oliver’s Mining Co. – 1700 Nations Dr, Gurnee, IL 60031
- AMJ Spectacular Events – Gemstone Mining Activity for Parties available for Illinois
Illinois Gem Mining Laws And Regulations
Recreational gem mining is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). While it is not allowed on any land owned or managed by the IDNR, it is still possible to mine on non-IDNR managed lands by getting permission from the landowner and any other local government agencies governing the land.
Make sure to follow all applicable laws when searching for gems, including those related to trespass and water rights. Additionally, no commercial operations are permitted without first obtaining a permit from IDNR.
The IDNR also prohibits the use of equipment such as shovels, picks, screens, or sluices in streams and rivers.
Finally, it is important to note that any precious gemstones you will find belong to the owner of the property where they were found. If you wish to collect any of it, make sure to get permission from the landowner first.
For more information on the state’s gem mining laws and regulations, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ link above.
Additional places to mine for gems in nearby states
If you’ve already visited all the places we’ve listed above or if you’re considering traveling to the surrounding states, see our guides for those states below:
- Gem mining in Indiana
- Gem mining in Iowa
- Gem mining in Kentucky
- Gem mining in Missouri
- Gem mining in Wisconsin
If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered, please leave them in the comments below!
