Gem hunting in Maryland really delivers. Despite not being one of the largest states around it’s packed with hidden gems ready to be discovered. From the rolling hills of the Piedmont to the streams that cut through the countryside, the state is full of spots where rockhounds can find crystals, minerals, and even the occasional gemstone.
You could stumble upon colorful quartz, sparkling garnets, or even agates if you know where to look. The best part is that many of these treasures are hiding in places that are easy to explore, like riverbeds, old quarries, and hiking trails. With a little patience and a sharp eye, every trip outdoors can turn into a real-life treasure hunt.
Whether you are new to collecting or already have a growing rock collection, Maryland offers plenty of opportunities to add something special. So grab your rock hammer, bring a bucket, and get ready to see what you can uncover.
- 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 Maryland You Can Mine

Maryland is incredibly blessed to have remarkable gemstones. With the correct knowledge and a little bit of luck, you can uncover both rare and more common gems in our region.
Amber

Amber isn’t just any rock; it’s stored tree sap! Think about it: sticky sap from old trees is buried, and after millions of years, it turns into this beautiful gold rock.
Trees and plants use them as time capsules, and sometimes, they even catch bugs and leaves from the past inside them. A light lemon-colored amber is one shade. A deep, rich orange-brown that looks like honey is another.
You can find amber in Maryland in a few different places, mostly in spots where there used to be a lot of trees a very long time ago. Maryland’s amber isn’t just amber; it can teach you about history.
At times, this amber is special because it hides little old treasures inside it. It’s not something you’ll often find when rock hunting, but when you do, it’s like finding a piece of Maryland’s natural history from a long time ago.
Amber has been loved for a very long time, and not just because it looks nice. People have made jewelry out of it that glows like little sun drops. Scientists also find it very interesting.
They look at it to learn about how things were in the past. For all of us, amber reminds us of how amazing and strange nature can be. Made from tree sap, amber is a gem that will last millions of years.
Where you can find Amber in Maryland
You can try to find them in these places in the state:
- North Perry Point
- Point Lookout area
- Sullivans Cove
Amethyst

Amethyst is one of those gems that stands out because of its beautiful purple color. This is a type of quartz, which is a pretty standard material. Its purple color is caused by radiation hitting the iron inside the quartz deep inside the Earth.
For thousands of years, crystals grow quietly in geodes, small rocks in the ground, until they’re ready to show off their beauty. This is how amethyst gets its name.
Maryland’s amethysts are like little bits of local magic. They’re not as big or dark as the well-known stones from Brazil or Uruguay, but they’re still pretty cool.
Based on where you find them and how much iron they have inside, their soft purple color can range from a light pink to a more royal purple.
A lot of people have been crazy about amethyst for a long time. This is where an amethyst’s value is. It was considered to be as valuable as diamonds. People still love it because it’s beautiful and can make any piece of jewelry look like it was made for a king or queen.
This makes it a popular choice for people who like their gems to make them feel good. So, amethyst gives everything it touches a bit of a royal sparkle, whether it’s a crown or a necklace.
Where you can find Amethyst in Maryland
Maryland is full of amethyst rocks, but these are the best spots to find them:
- White Marsh
Aquamarine

You can hold a piece of the sky in your hand when you look at aquamarine. There are different shades of blue in this gem, from light blue to deep sea green.
This gem is a type of beryl, which is the same family of minerals that emeralds are. But aquamarine is cool blue instead of green because it has iron in it. It forms deep underground in rocks known as pegmatites.
These rocks are like treasure boxes for the Earth—they’re full of big crystals and other surprises.
Aquamarine isn’t very common in Maryland, which makes it even more exciting when you do find it. These pegmatites can be hidden in the middle of the state, which is where the rock is most often found.
Maryland’s aquamarines are pretty, but not as big and fancy as the ones you might find in a jewelry shop. They are a soft, watery blue color that can make you think of a sunny day in Maryland with a clear sky.
In the past, sailors carried it as a good stone to keep them safe at sea. Even now, it still stands for safety and a happy marriage. Aquamarine is valuable and more than just a pretty stone to look at; it has a lot of history and meaning behind it.
Where you can find Aquamarine in Maryland
You can find aquamarine all over Maryland, but most of them are found in these places:
- Baltimore County
Diopside

Diopside is an interesting mineral that can really stand out because of its bright green color. However, it can also be found in white or light green shades. The less well-known cousin of the more well-known emerald, but still pretty cool.
When lava from volcanoes cools down very fast or when certain rocks get squished and heated up deep in the Earth, diopside is formed. The conditions on Earth that make it happen are pretty tough, like a superhero for minerals.
Diopside isn’t exactly sitting around on the sidewalk in Maryland, but it’s a part of the underground scene in the state. Thanks to its long geological past, Maryland has a lot of different types of rocks.
Because of this, you might find this green gem while you’re out exploring, especially in places where there have been old volcanic activity or where the earth has been baking (metamorphosis) for a long time.
People who like jewelry and gems like diopside because of its color and sparkle. Also, diopside is a very important piece of information for experts trying to figure out the history of the Earth’s crust.
Where you can find Diopside in Maryland
Most of the diopside in Maryland can be found in these places:
- Hunting Hill
- Rockville Crushed Stone Quarry
Opal

Opal is a stone that looks like it has a rainbow inside it. It’s not just one color; as you move it in the light, it shakes and changes, showing a wide range of colors. Small amounts of water and calcium inside the opal make this magic work.
To make it, water has to flow through the ground, pick up silica from sandstone, and then settle into cracks and holes in rocks. There is no longer any water after a long time because it has evaporated. What’s left? A lovely opal!
To find opal in Maryland is a bit like going on a treasure hunt. Even though it’s not the most common stone in the state, you might find one in the center part of the state.
A lot of the opals in Maryland are the usual type. They have a nice milky color with pretty flashes of color inside. Even though they’re not the flashy kind you see in jewelry shops, they’re still breathtaking.
People value opal for its beauty and its color changes when light hits it. This makes it a popular stone for making bracelets and rings. It’s not just about how you look, though.
Because each opal is different, with its design and colors, having one is like having a one-of-a-kind work of natural art.
Where you can find Opal in Maryland
Opal can be found all over Maryland, but mostly in these places:
- Beltsville area iron mines
- Hunting Hill
- Rockville Crushed Stone Quarry
Zircon

Because it is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, zircon is like the parent of all jewels. But it’s not just old; it’s also really cool. Zircon comes in many colors, including red, green, brown, and its most famous color, blue that sparkles.
It can be made in many ways, such as when molten rock cools down during a volcanic explosion and zircon crystals begin to form. Besides that, it can be found in rocks that have been changed over time by heat and pressure.
Zircon isn’t something you’ll find in Maryland, but it is a part of the rock scene there. They are very small, almost too small to see. Others may be big enough for their shine to catch your eye.
While they might not always look like the zircons in jewelry stores, they’re still a great find.
Zircon is valuable for more than just how it looks. Yes, because it sparkles almost as much as a diamond, it looks great in rings and chains. It’s very important to science, not just for its beauty.
Where you can find Zircon in Maryland
Zircon is easy to find in Maryland, mostly in these places:
- Bear Island
Azurite

The deep blue color of azurite is so beautiful that it looks like a piece of the sky has dropped to Earth. It’s as blue as a summer day. You can find this mineral where there is copper, usually at the top of copper ore sources.
The chemical reaction between copper, oxygen, carbon, and water—usually from rainwater or groundwater—makes azurite. Anytime azurite is exposed to water and air for too long, it can change into malachite, a crystal that is just as beautiful but green.
Azurite isn’t the most common element in Maryland, but it’s like a secret treat for someone who looks closely. There are many old mines and natural places in the state that were once full of copper.
That’s where you might find this blue beauty. Even though the azurite in Maryland isn’t in big, chunky chunks, the blue color of even the smallest pieces makes it a cool find.
Azurite is valuable not only because of how it looks, but also because of what it has done in art and history. A long time ago, it was ground up to make a blue paint ingredient.
Mineral fans still love it because of its deep color and the way it shines in the light. It’s also a natural place for artists to get ideas. It’s a real work of nature art, whether it’s in a museum or a rock collection.
Where you can find Azurite in Maryland
Azurite is easy to find in Maryland, especially in these spots:
- Liberty Mine
- New Windsor
- Repp Mine
Bornite

Bornite is a mineral that comes in a lot of different colors. People often call it “peacock ore” because it looks like a peacock’s wings with its different shades of purple, blue, and green.
This cool rock is made up of copper, iron, and sulfur. Deep underground, where copper is found, especially in places where volcanoes erupt a lot, it forms. Bornite is made possible by the heat and chemical processes that happen in volcanoes.
It starts to tarnish in the air, which is when the beautiful colors appear—it’s like nature’s own tie-dye!
You’ll have a better chance of seeing this bright mineral in places where copper extraction used to happen. Even if the bornite in Maryland doesn’t always have the big, bright colors you see in pictures, it’s still pretty cool to look at and touch.
Several things make bornite valuable. Not only is it pretty and colorful, but it also gives us copper, which we use for many things, like coins and lines. This rock also has a unique and colorful tarnish that makes rock fans love it.
Bornite is a gemstone that makes us think about how beautiful and full of color the world is.
Where you can find Bornite in Maryland
Here are some places in Maryland where you can find bornite:
- Dollyhyde Creek
- Hammond Prospect
- New Windsor
Brucite

Even though brucite isn’t the most flashy crystal, it’s still pretty cool. A lot of the time, this material is white or pale green, but sometimes it can be blue or even pink.
When rocks with a lot of magnesium, like peridotite or serpentine, get wet, brucite forms. Over time, this water turns the rock into brucite through a chemical process like magic. It’s like a science project that takes a very long time.
When found in Maryland, brucite is even more special because it isn’t found very often. There are places in the state where the rocks are just right for making brucite, especially in the serpentine barrens.
These are special places where the dirt is too harsh for most plants to grow but just right for minerals like brucite to form.
It’s not the kind of brucite that makes news because it’s big and bold, but mineral fans traveling through Maryland should look for it because it’s pretty and rare.
Brucite is worth more than how it looks. In the real world, it comes in very handy. People study brucite to learn more about how minerals form and what that can tell us about the past of the Earth.
It’s also used in business to make chemicals and things that keep fires from spreading. Brucite is a mineral that plays many essential parts in nature and our daily lives, even though it may not be as well known as gold or diamond.
Where you can find Brucite in Maryland
Brucite that is one of a kind can be found in the following places:
- Reed Mine
- Walken Mine
- Rock Springs
Covellite

The crystal covellite looks like a piece of the night sky has been set in stone. Indigo blue is a deep, beautiful color that can sometimes flash with a shiny sheen resembling stars.
Copper sulfide is what covellite is made of, and it usually forms where copper is present, generally when other copper sulfides like chalcopyrite are changed.
Either very hot places deep underground or hot seas that break down and rearrange the elements in the original copper minerals can cause this process to happen.
Covellite isn’t something you’ll usually find in Maryland, but you can find it. It tends to hang out in old copper mines and other places where copper friends are.
Because Maryland used to be a mining state, you might find this deep blue beauty in the right places while searching old mine dumps or natural rock outcrops.
Maryland’s covellite is a real treat for geology and mining history buffs because it tells a story of the state’s past industry activities.
People like covellite not only because it looks nice but also because it has copper in it, which is very useful for plumbing and wires. People who like minerals also like it because of its unique color, and it can be cut into jewels for jewelry.
While covellite may not be the most well-known mineral, it’s loved for its usefulness in earth science and its beautiful look, which can add a splash of deep blue to any crystal collection or jewelry box.
Where you can find Covellite in Maryland
These places are where you can find covellite:
- Dollyhyde Creek
- Hammond Prospect
Smithsonite

You might think Smithsonite is a different material because it looks like a different color. It could be white, blue, green, or pink. Fun fact: it’s often found in round, bubbly shapes resembling little grape clusters.
There is a chemical process that turns the zinc sulfide minerals into smithsonite when zinc ore deposits are exposed to air and rain. It’s kind of like cleaning in nature!
You won’t find smithsonite anywhere in Maryland, but you might find it in the right place, like near old mines where zinc was once found.
Maryland’s smithsonite is a real gem that not many people know about! You won’t find something like that every day, but that makes it more exciting when you do.
Several things make Smithsonite very valuable. Zinc is in it, and we use it to make many things, such as metal alloys and even sunscreen.
But smithsonite isn’t just useful; mineral fans also love it for its unique look and the way it can sparkle just right when you polish it.
Also, smithsonite has a background behind it—it was named after James Smithson, who started the Smithsonian Institution. That’s why smithsonite is more than just a pretty stone. It has science, history, and a little sparkle all in one.
Where you can find Smithsonite in Maryland
There are a lot of places in Maryland where you can find smithsonite:
- Liberty Mine
- New Windsor
Tourmaline

You can find tourmaline in almost every color you can think of. It’s known as the rainbow of gems. It has various colors, from bright blues and greens to pretty pinks and cherry reds.
Mixed with other things, this bright gem is made of aluminum, iron, magnesium, and more. When hot, mineral-rich water flows through cracks in certain types of rocks deep beneath, it makes it.
As the water cools down, tourmaline begins to crystallize, similar to how sugar turns into rock candy.
Tourmalines are especially easy to find in the central part of the state, where pegmatites are found, which are rocks that are like treasure chests for gems.
Most of the time, the tourmalines in Maryland aren’t the big, fancy jewelry-quality gems, but they’re still cool to find and look at. Even though they are small, their color and shine make them very powerful.
Tourmaline is valuable because it’s both pretty and one-of-a-kind. Each piece has its design and mix of colors. Yes, it’s used a lot in jewelry, but scientists who study how the Earth works also find it interesting.
When people look at tourmaline, it can tell them about the underground conditions where it formed. As you can see, tourmaline is a unique gem that stands out, whether in a collar or a science experiment.
Where you can find Tourmaline in Maryland
Pieces of tourmaline can be found in the following places:
- Baltimore County
- Granite area quarries
- H.T. Campbell Quarry
Vesuvianite

Vesuvianite, sometimes called idocrase, is an interesting crystal that changes colors like a chameleon, going from brown to green to yellow and even blue or purple.
It was first found on Mount Vesuvius in Italy, where it got its name. But you can find this cool mineral all over the world. It forms when volcanic rocks are heated and pressed together, a process scientists call metamorphism.
It works like baking clay in an oven, but it takes a very long time and takes place deep in the Earth.
It is most common in places where volcanoes have erupted in the past or where heat and pressure have changed limestone.
If you’re lucky enough to find vesuvianite in Maryland, it will probably be in the form of small, rough pieces that look like glass. Even though they’re not very big or showy, they’re cool pieces of Maryland’s natural puzzle.
Several things make vesuvianite valuable. People who like collecting minerals love it because it comes in many colors and sparkles in the light. Because it looks different and lasts a long time, jewelers like to use it in their work.
It’s also often found with other valuable stones, like garnet and diopside. This can mean that there are more gifts nearby. It brings a touch of Earth’s deep beauty into our lives, whether it’s in a rock collection or a piece of jewelry.
Where you can find Vesuvianite in Maryland
You can find vesuvianite specimens at the Appalachisn regions of Maryland.
Williamsite

Williamsite is a unique and rare form of serpentine, a green mineral that looks like wax. It’s fascinating because it often has these incredible, see-through spots that feel oily or soapy when you touch them.
There is a bit of chromium in this gemstone, which makes it a brighter green. It’s made of the same stuff that most serpentine rocks are made of. An area with a lot of serpentine rocks is likely to have it.
It’s found in the state’s serpentine barrens, areas where the soil is full of serpentine minerals and not much else likes to grow. These barrens create just the right conditions for williamsite to form.
While you’re not going to find it just lying around everywhere, in these serpentine-rich areas, you might spot some.
As a mineral, it’s pretty rare, which always makes it more attractive to gem and crystal collectors. The rich green color and the way it can be cut and polished to a beautiful shine make it an excellent stone for jewelry, even though it’s not as hard as others.
Also, you can only find it in certain places, which gives it an air of mystery, like a hidden gem there to be found. Williamsite has its unique charm, whether in a ring or a collection.
Where you can find Williamsite in Maryland
Here are some places where you can find williamsite:
- Green Marble Quarry
- Funks Pond Recreational Area
- Rock Springs
Zoisite

Zoisite is a crystal that is very interesting because it can change colors so quickly. It can be green, brown, blue, or even purple. Tanzanite, a bright blue-purple zoisite, is the most well-known type, but we don’t find that type in Maryland.
Hot rocks that are high in calcium and aluminum get squished under the Earth’s surface, which makes zoisite. With a lot of pressure and time, it’s like a rock getting a major makeover. It changes into something much cooler.
Like the old mountains and rivers that run through the state, it might be found where the rocks have been through a lot. Zoisite from Maryland isn’t as bright blue as tanzanite, but it has its kind of soft beauty.
Its colors, like greens, browns, and sometimes a rosy pink, make you think of the earth.
Zoisite is valuable for more than just its looks. When cut and polished for jewelry, it can look very pretty. Fans of rocks and scientists who want to learn more about how they form will also enjoy it.
Also, zoisite is a material that changes when it is pressed, which makes us think that stress can sometimes bring out the beauty in things.
Zoisite is a beautiful gem that shows how different nature’s works can be. It can be worn as a necklace or added to a rock collection.
Where you can find Zoisite in Maryland
Zoisite can be found in the following places:
- Bare Hills
- Sykesville area
Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining In Maryland
We made a list of our favorite places that both adults and kids can refer to if they want to experience the joy of gem mining. For adults, these places can offer the chance to experience real gem hunting, while for kids, these places will help provide the best start to their journey.
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
Bare Hills

Bare Hills, Baltimore Co., MD, United States
Bare Hills is a popular destination for rockhounds and amateur geologists alike. The area has been mined since the 1800s, as it is known for its wide variety of gems and minerals. The area also features several historic sites, including abandoned mines and the ruins of an old mill. You can pan for gems or purchase bags of ore to take home with you.
The Types of Gems Found In The Bare Hills
This place is well-known for being endowed with different kinds of gems, such as the following:
- Actinolite
- Agate
- Epidote
- Feldspar
- Garnet
- Malachite
- Pyrite
- Quartz
- Serpentine
- Tremolite
- Zoisite
The Best Time To Visit Bare Hills
If you want to visit this location, the best time to do it is between late spring and early fall. The weather is mild during these months and the ground is not frozen, making it easier to dig and sift through the soil for gems. Additionally, many of the mining sites are open during these months.
DON'T MISS OUT ON ANY GREAT FINDS!
While you're out searching for Gems you're going to find A LOT of other interesting rocks and minerals along the way. The last thing you want to do is toss out something really interesting or valuable. It can be easy to misidentify things without a little guidance.
We've put together a fantastic field guide that makes identifying 140 of the most interesting and valuable rocks and minerals you will find REALLY EASY. It's simple to use, really durable, and will allow you to identify just about any rock and mineral you come across. Make sure you bring it along on your hunt!
Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area

5100 Deer Park Road, Owings Mills MD 21117
Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area, a place that includes a mix of meadows, wetlands, forests, and rock outcroppings, is known for its unique geology. Gem mining has been an activity in this area since the 19th century, when it was first discovered that deposits of gems were present here.When you visit this place, you can search for gems in the park’s streams and creeks. You can also get your hands on Maryland crystals here.
The Types of Gems Found In The Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area
This place belongs in our favorite list because it abounds in a wide variety of gemstones, such as:
- Chromite
- Feldspar
- Magnesite
- Quartz
The Best Time To Visit Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area
The Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area’s best time for visitors is during the summer months. While it is open year-round, the warmer months provide the best conditions for gem mining. That is also why the park offers gem mining classes throughout the summer months.
Chrome Hill

Chrome Hill, Harford County, MD 21084
Chrome Hill was first discovered in 1875 by a prospector who found an abundance of gems and minerals in the soil. The site was quickly developed into a commercial mining operation and became one of the largest gem and mineral producers on the east coast. Today, Chrome Hill is still a popular destination for rockhounds and amateur geologists. The area is also known for its rich history, with many old buildings still standing from its heyday as a bustling mining community.
The Types of Gems Found In The Chrome Hill
The following gemstones, both rare and more common ones, can be found abundantly in this area:
- Actinolite
- Bronzite
- Chromite
- Garnet
- Quartz
- Serpentine
The Best Time To Visit Chrome Hill
The gem mines of Chrome Hill are open year-round, so visitors can enjoy a trip there during any season. But the best time to visit this location is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During these months, the weather is warm and dry, making it the ideal time to explore the area and mine gems.
Sacred Ground Mining Company – Great for kids

20294 Garrett Highway, Oakland, MD 21550
Established in 2008, Sacred Ground Mining Company has become one of the most popular attractions in Maryland’s Appalachian Mountains. It offers a range of services, including gem mining parties, gemstone jewelry making classes, and custom jewelry design services. Their staff are available to help you learn about the history of gem mining in the area, as well as how to identify different types of gems.
The Types of Gems Found In The Sacred Ground Mining Company
This location is a great place to teach children all about gems, specially since each bag of mining rough contains different kinds of gemstones that can be found, not only in the region, but in different parts of the world.
The Best Time To Visit Sacred Ground Mining Company
The best time to visit Sacred Ground Mining Company is during the summer months when the weather is warmer. The place offers gem mining activities from May through September, and most people, especially families with kids, prefer to mine in the warmer months when they can enjoy being outdoors.
Geologic Times Corporation – Great for kids

5500 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, MD 21703
Over the past 30 years since it was founded, Geologic Times Corporation has grown to become one of the premier gem mining operations in the country. They offer an array of products and services, including custom jewelry design, mineral specimens for sale, educational programs for schools and organizations, and a wide selection of gems to mine at their on-site facility. Aside from offering high-quality gems and minerals, this location is also known as an excellent place to learn about gems and geology in general.
The Types of Gems Found In The Geologic Times Corporation
This place features a wide-range of different gemstones that can be found in the region, making it a great spot for kids to start their hobby.
The Best Time To Visit Geologic Times Corporation
Summer months are the best time to visit this place. The warm weather makes it easier to spend time outdoors and enjoy the experience. Additionally, the company offers gem mining events and activities during the summer months that families with kids can enjoy.
Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in Maryland

Since Maryland is blessed with different kinds of gems, there are plenty other great spots for mining aside from the ones we selected above. Below are some of the other places where adults can experience real gem mining.
- Baltimore County – Aquamarine, Beryl, Garnet, Quartz, Tourmaline
- Reed Mine and Walken Mine – Brucite, Chromite, Quartz, Serpentine
- Magothy River – Pyrite
- New Windsor – Azurite, Bornite, Malachite, Smithsonite, Sphalerite
- Flintville – Feldspar, Garnet, Quartz
- Funks Pond Recreational Area – Serpentine, Chromite, Brucite, Magnesite
- North Perry Point – Amber
- Sullivan Cove – Amber
- Elk Mills – Beryl, Garnet
- White Marsh – Amethyst
- Middlesburge – Chrysocolla
- Rock Springs – Serpentine, Chromite, Brucite, Magnesite
- Dollyhyde Creek – Bornite, Calcite, Covellite, Malachite, Quartz
- Hunting Hill – Calcite, Diopside, Garnet, Opal, Serpentine
The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in Maryland

For families who are wanting to introduce their children to gem mining, here are more great suggestions of places that are family-friendly.
- Tim’s Gems Mobile Gold & Gem Mine – Offers mobile gem mining activities in New Market, Thurmont, Boonsboro, Urbana, Frederick, Hagerstown, Germantown
- Robinson Nature Area – 6692 Cedar Ln, Columbia, MD 21044, United States
- Graver Farm – 5501 Detrick Road, Mt. Airy, MD 21771
Maryland Gem Mining Laws And Regulations
Maryland state recreational gem hunting regulations are designed to ensure that any gems found in the state’s public lands are collected responsibly and sustainably. Collecting of gems from state parks, forests, and other public lands is strictly prohibited unless authorized by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
A permit is required for recreational gem hunting on private land with permission from the landowner. If you plan on collecting them, you are limited to a quantity of 25 pounds or less per day, and all specimens must be labeled with your name, address, date, and location of collection. All specimens must be properly identified before leaving the collecting area. Any gems found must be reported to the Maryland DNR within 30 days of collection. It is illegal to sell or trade any gem taken from state lands without a permit from the department.
For more information on the state’s gem mining laws and regulations, visit the Maryland Department of Natural Resources link above.
Additional places to mine for gems in nearby states
Once you’ve been to each location on the above list, you may use the guides we’ve prepared below to explore even more rare gems in neighboring states:
- Gem mining in Delaware
- Gem mining in Pennsylvania
- Gem mining in Virginia
- Gem mining in West Virginia
If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered, please leave them in the comments below!