Who doesn’t love the thrill of gem hunting? Michigan is the perfect place to hunt for precious gems because of its rich history, rugged terrain, and abundance of beautiful lakes and geological formations.
From Lake Superior’s shore to the Upper Peninsula’s depths, you’ll find plenty of spots to dig for gems.
This state offers something for both beginners and professional gem hunters alike. With so many sites to choose from, we know it can be difficult to pick the best place in this state for digging gemstones. So, read on to discover and try the best spots we’ve found!
The best places to mine gems in Michigan are along lakebeds, creeks, and rivers, loose along the shoreline, mine dumps, and pay-to-dig mines. Below, we go into greater depth about some fantastic options, including Isle Royale, Caledonia Mine, and McClain State Park.
There are a lot of different rocks and minerals found in Michigan but we’re going to cover those that are truly beautiful.
- 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 Michigan You Can Find

Sapphire
Sapphire is a type of corundum, a mineral that comes in various colors depending on trace elements like iron and titanium. While blue sapphires are the most famous, they also come in shades of yellow, green, pink, and even clear.
In Michigan, most of the sapphires you’ll come across are natural, untreated varieties, often in lighter shades like pale blue or yellow. They’re formed under high-pressure conditions and are a rare find, which makes the hunt even more exciting.
Why It’s Valuable
Sapphires are prized for their beauty, durability, and rarity. They’re one of the hardest gemstones, second only to diamonds, making them perfect for jewelry like rings and necklaces.
Beyond their practical uses, there’s something magical about holding a piece of Michigan’s geological history in your hand. Whether you’re a collector or just looking for a unique keepsake, sapphires have a special allure that’s hard to resist.
Great Places to Find It Here
If you’re ready to try your luck at finding a sapphire, Michigan has some fantastic spots where you can start your search. Here are a few of my favorite places:
- Keweenaw Peninsula: Known for its rich mining history, this area is great for rockhounds. Sapphires can occasionally be found near old mine tailings or in gravel pits.
- Isle Royale National Park: This remote, rugged island offers stunning scenery and a chance to uncover gemstones in glacial deposits along its rocky shores.
- Traverse City Gravel Deposits: The glacial deposits near Traverse City are another hotspot. Local gravel pits and riverbeds are great places to dig around for small sapphires and other gemstones.
Discover the best Sapphire location in Michigan in our full guide.

Amethyst
Amethyst is a type of quartz that gets its purple color from traces of iron and natural radiation within the stone.
In Michigan, amethyst can range from pale lavender to rich, deep purple shades. Some specimens even have bands of white quartz or hints of red and blue, making each find unique.
Most amethyst here is found in small geodes or scattered in loose mineral deposits. You can read through our complete Michigan guide to locate Amethyst deposits.
Why It’s Valuable
Amethyst is valuable not only for its beauty but also for its versatility. It’s used in jewelry, home décor, and even as a collector’s piece.
Beyond that, many people believe amethyst has calming and healing properties, making it a popular choice for mindfulness and relaxation.
Great Places to Find It in Michigan
If you’re ready to go on an amethyst hunt, Michigan has some fantastic spots where you can try your luck. Here are my top recommendations:
- Copper Falls Mine: With its rich mineral history, you might just uncover some amethyst treasures while exploring the old tailings and nearby rock formations.
- Porcupine Mountains: Amethyst has been known to show up in gravel beds and rocky outcrops here. It’s a great spot to combine a hiking trip with your search for gemstones.
- Keweenaw County: The entire county is a goldmine for mineral collectors, with many public areas where amethyst and other stones can be found. Roadside gravel pits and beaches often yield small but beautiful specimens.
Discover more Amethyst locations across Michigan in our comprehensive guide.

Beryl
Beryl is a fascinating mineral that’s found right here in Michigan. It’s part of a family of silicate minerals that form in hexagonal crystals, and it comes in a variety of colors, including green, blue, yellow, and even pink.
Some varieties of beryl, like emerald and aquamarine, are highly prized as gemstones. In Michigan, we mostly find beryl in its natural, less colorful form, often referred to as “common beryl.”
Why Beryl is Valuable
Beryl is valuable for a few reasons. First, it’s a collector’s dream, especially for people who love geology or minerals. Its unique hexagonal crystal structure and hardness make it a standout in any collection.
Additionally, even common beryl is a reminder of the geological processes that shaped Michigan’s landscape millions of years ago. If you’re lucky enough to find a rare gem-like piece, it could even have monetary value.
Great Places to Find Beryl in Michigan
If you’re up for an adventure, there are some great spots in Michigan where you can hunt for beryl. It’s all about knowing where to look, and a little patience goes a long way. Here are my top picks:
- Ishpeming Area: The Ishpeming area is famous for its rich geological history and mineral diversity. Local quarries and rock piles sometimes yield beryl crystals among other treasures.
- Houghton County: Known for its incredible copper deposits, Houghton County also has pegmatite outcrops where beryl can occasionally be found.
- Keweenaw Peninsula: This area is a goldmine for rockhounds. While people often come here for copper or agates, the pegmatites sometimes hold surprises like beryl.
Explore additional Beryl sites throughout Michigan with our detailed guide.

Gold
When it comes to gold in Michigan, we’re talking mostly about placer gold. This type of gold has been carried and deposited by water or glacial movements, making it perfect for amateur prospectors with a pan or sluice box.
You won’t find massive veins of gold like in other parts of the country, but what we do have is enough to keep the thrill alive. Occasionally, you might even stumble upon a small nugget in certain areas!
Why It’s Valuable
Gold is valuable for a couple of reasons. First, it’s rare—there’s only so much of it in the world, and demand always seems to outweigh supply.
Second, it has a timeless appeal. From ancient civilizations to modern tech, gold has been used for everything from jewelry and coins to electronics.
And let’s not forget its cultural value—finding even a small amount of gold feels like striking it rich, and that’s something that never gets old.
Great Places to Find It in Michigan
If you’re itching to grab a gold pan and see what you can find, Michigan has some great spots to explore. Here are a few of my top recommendations:
- Rogue River: The Rogue River has a history of yielding small flakes of placer gold, especially in gravel bars along the river.
- Grand River: The Grand River is another good spot for prospectors. Look for areas with slower-moving water or bends in the river where gold tends to settle.
- Menominee River: This area has a history of gold finds, and the natural beauty of the region makes it a fantastic place to explore.

Diamond
While Michigan isn’t known for commercial diamond mining, there are stories of occasional diamond discoveries, particularly near glacial deposits.
Most of the diamonds found here are small, rough diamonds brought down by ancient glaciers, but they’re incredible pieces of Earth’s history (Here’s your go-to guide for Michigan Diamond locations).
Why Diamonds Are Valuable
Diamonds are prized for their beauty, durability, and rarity. Even small, rough diamonds hold significant scientific and monetary value.
For us Michiganders, finding a diamond is a unique connection to the geological past, as many of these stones were carried by glaciers from Canada during the Ice Age. It’s like holding a piece of Earth’s ancient story in your hand.
Great Places to Find Diamonds in Michigan
While diamond hunting isn’t a common activity here, a few areas are known for yielding interesting finds. If you’re up for an adventure, these are my top picks:
- Cook Lake: This area has been mentioned in stories of unusual rock discoveries, including small diamonds, thanks to glacial movement in the region. It’s a serene spot for treasure hunters.
- Grand Rapids: Glacial deposits in and around Grand Rapids have occasionally turned up fascinating finds, including rare stones like diamonds.
- Cass County: Known for its gravel pits and glacial moraine deposits, this southwestern part of Michigan is another promising location to keep on your radar for diamond hunting.
See our complete Michigan guide for more Diamond hunting grounds.

Silver
Silver in Michigan comes in a few forms, but the most common is native silver. This type of silver is usually discovered near copper deposits and can appear as veins, nuggets, or small flakes.
Occasionally, it’s found as silver sulfide minerals like argentite, but those are less common. The Keweenaw Peninsula is particularly famous for its native silver, often found in the same mines that produced the region’s abundant copper.
Why It’s Valuable
Silver isn’t just pretty; it’s incredibly useful. Its value comes from its rarity and versatility. It’s used in jewelry, coins, electronics, and even medical equipment. What makes Michigan’s silver special is its historical significance.
The native silver here is often associated with the early mining boom of the 19th century, making it a tangible piece of our state’s heritage.
Great Places to Find Silver in Michigan
If you’re up for an adventure and want to try finding silver yourself, Michigan has some excellent spots to explore. Here are three of the best places I’d recommend checking out:
- Little Iron River: Nestled in the Keweenaw Peninsula, this area is known for its stunning natural beauty and historic significance. Searching near the riverbed or surrounding areas could lead to exciting discoveries of native silver.
- White Pine Mine: This former copper mine also produced significant amounts of silver. The old mine tailings and surrounding grounds are worth exploring for mineral enthusiasts.
- Ontonagon County: With its long history of copper and silver mining, this county is a great place to search old mining areas and rock piles for silver specimens.
Check out our extensive guide to uncover 50 Legit Silver locations in Michigan.

Copper
Copper in Michigan comes in its purest natural form, called native copper. This means it hasn’t been combined with other elements to form an ore, which is why it’s often easy to identify in the field.
Michigan is also home to various copper minerals which can be found alongside native copper in veins and deposits. Some specimens even show beautiful patterns of green and blue, thanks to oxidation-forming minerals like malachite and azurite.
Why It’s Valuable
Copper has always been prized for its usefulness and beauty. It’s highly conductive, which makes it essential for electronics, and it’s also malleable, so it’s easy to work with.
Historically, copper from Michigan played a huge role in the Industrial Revolution and helped establish the state’s mining industry.
Beyond its practical uses, native copper specimens are sought after by collectors for their rich colors, natural shapes, and historical significance.
Great Places to Find It Here
If you’re interested in finding your own piece of Michigan’s copper, you’re in luck! There are still plenty of places to explore, and some are even open to the public. Here are a few top spots I’d recommend:
- Keweenaw Peninsula: This is the heart of Michigan’s historic copper mining region. You can explore old mine tailings and even find native copper just lying on the ground if you’re lucky.
- Caledonia Mine: Located near Ontonagon, this is a great place for rockhounds. They offer tours and rock-collecting opportunities, making it easier to find native copper and other minerals.
- Cliff Mine: Found near Eagle Harbor, this historic site was one of the first profitable copper mines in the state. Exploring the area can yield small native copper pieces and gives a glimpse into Michigan’s mining heritage.

Agate
Agate is a semi-precious gemstone known for its colorful bands and translucent beauty. Here in Michigan, the most common type is the Lake Superior agate. This variety is famous for its red, orange, and yellow hues, which come from iron deposits in the region’s volcanic rock.
You might also come across eye agates (with circular patterns), fortification agates (with sharp, layered bands), or moss agates, which have organic, plant-like inclusions. Each one is like a little piece of art created by nature.
Why It’s Valuable
Agates are valuable not just for their beauty but also for their connection to Michigan’s geological history. They make unique keepsakes and are often used in jewelry or polished for display.
Collectors value them for their rarity and the thrill of the hunt—no two agates are alike! Plus, they’re a reminder of the ancient volcanic activity that shaped much of our Upper Peninsula.
Great Places to Find It Here
Michigan has some fantastic spots to find Agates in Michigan. Here are three great places to start:
- Lake Superior Beaches: The shores of Lake Superior, especially near Grand Marais and Whitefish Point, are some of the best spots to hunt for agates.
- Brockway Mountain: Located in the Keweenaw Peninsula, Brockway Mountain offers incredible views and rocky areas where you can find agates while enjoying breathtaking scenery.
- Grand Sable Dunes: These massive sand dunes near Munising are a prime spot for agate hunting. The shifting sands and shoreline often reveal beautiful stones waiting to be discovered.
Access our complete Michigan guide to locate more Agate deposits.

Tourmaline
Tourmaline is a mineral that forms in a wide range of colors due to the varying presence of different elements like iron, manganese, and lithium.
In Michigan, the most commonly found types are black tourmaline (schorl) and sometimes green or pink varieties.
The black tourmaline is particularly common in areas rich in granite or metamorphic rocks, making it a real find for those who know where to dig.
Why It’s Valuable
Tourmaline is sought after for both its beauty and its practical uses. It’s a favorite for jewelry due to its durability and vibrant colors, but it’s also valued by scientists for its unique electrical properties.
In Michigan, finding tourmaline adds a special thrill because it’s not as widespread as in other parts of the country. It feels like uncovering a hidden gem—literally!
Great Places to Find It Here
Michigan has some fantastic spots to find Tourmaline in Michigan. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Crystal Falls: This area in the Upper Peninsula is a rockhound’s dream. Known for its granite-rich geology, it’s a great spot to search for black tourmaline crystals.
- Napoleon Sandstone Quarry: While sandstone dominates, you might come across interesting mineral inclusions like tourmaline.
- Dickinson County: Dickinson County has a history of yielding fascinating mineral specimens, including tourmaline, especially near pegmatite formations.
Visit our in-depth Michigan guide for more Tourmaline gathering locations.

Chlorastrolite
Chlorastrolite is a variety of pumpellyite, a mineral that forms in volcanic rocks. Its name means “green star stone,” and when you see one, you’ll understand why!
These gems have a beautiful green color with a star-like or turtle shell pattern that makes them stand out. In Michigan, you’ll mainly find two types: Classic Chlorastrolite and Isle Royale Specimens.
Why It’s Valuable
There’s a lot to love about chlorastrolite. First, it’s rare and unique to Michigan, making it a symbol of our state’s natural beauty.
Second, its mesmerizing patterns and vibrant green color make it highly desirable for jewelry and collections. Plus, its connection to Michigan’s history and geology makes it a meaningful keepsake.
Great Places to Find It Here
If you’re up for an adventure, there are a few spots in Michigan where you can hunt for chlorastrolite. Remember, patience is key—it might take some time to find, but it’s so worth it!
- Isle Royale National Park: This remote island in Lake Superior is famous for its greenstones. You can’t take rocks from the park itself, but the experience of spotting them in their natural habitat is unforgettable.
- Keweenaw Peninsula Beaches: Try your luck along the shores of the Keweenaw Peninsula. Places like Eagle Harbor and Copper Harbor are popular among rockhounds.
- Lakeshore Areas of Presque Isle County: The rocky beaches along Lake Huron in Presque Isle County, especially near Rogers City, occasionally turn up chlorastrolite.

Geode
Geodes form when mineral-rich water gets trapped inside a hollow space in a rock, creating a cavity. Over time, crystals grow inside, making each geode unique. In Michigan, you can mostly find quartz and calcite geodes.
Some even have traces of other minerals like fluorite or celestite. You can discover hidden Geode locations with our complete Michigan guide.
Why They’re Valuable
The beauty of geodes is what makes them so prized. When you crack one open, you never know what you’ll find inside—sparkling quartz, intricate patterns, or even rare minerals.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, geodes are often used in jewelry, home décor, and even as educational tools for teaching geology.
Great Places to Find Geodes in Michigan
You don’t have to travel too far to find these hidden gems. Here are some of my favorite spots where you can try your luck:
- Lake Huron Beaches: The shorelines, especially around the northern part, are a good place to spot geodes among the rocks and pebbles.
- Gravel Pits in Southern Michigan: Many private gravel pits allow geode hunting with permission, so it’s worth checking out if you’re in this area.
- Drummond Island: Known for its unique geology, this island offers great opportunities for rockhounding, and geodes are among the treasures you might uncover.
Get the full scoop on Geode locations throughout Michigan here.

Datolite
Datolite is a calcium borosilicate mineral that forms in crystal clusters or nodules, often found in old copper mining regions. Michigan is famous for its richly colored datolite, which comes in shades of white, pink, orange, green, and even rare yellows.
The variety depends on the trace elements, like copper, found in the surrounding rock. It’s one of the most diverse and beautiful datolites you’ll find anywhere in the world.
Why It’s Valuable
Michigan’s datolite is special for more than its beauty. Its rarity makes it highly collectible, and its strong connection to the state’s copper mining history adds a layer of nostalgia for local collectors.
Lapidary artists love it too—it polishes up beautifully, making it ideal for unique jewelry or display pieces. Some specimens with vibrant colors or intricate patterns can even fetch high prices.
Great Places to Find It Here
If you’re ready to start looking for datolite, there are plenty of promising spots across Michigan. Here are some of the best places to hunt:
- Calumet Area: The old mining dumps near Calumet in the Keweenaw Peninsula are known for yielding beautiful datolite nodules. Early morning trips or cooler autumn days are perfect for rockhounding here.
- Cliff Mine Tailings: Another hotspot in the Keweenaw, the tailings of Cliff Mine have long been a favorite for collectors. Springtime, when vegetation hasn’t fully grown in, is a great time to visit.
- Isle Royale: If you’re visiting Isle Royale, summer is the ideal time to explore. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the park’s regulations about collecting minerals.

Jasper
Jasper is a form of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz, and it’s known for its rich, earthy tones.
Here in Michigan, you’ll find several types, including red jasper, which gets its color from iron oxide, and brecciated jasper, which has a beautiful mosaic-like appearance.
Picture stone, another variety, features intricate patterns that can resemble landscapes. Each type reflects Michigan’s diverse geological history.
Why It’s Valuable
Jasper isn’t just pretty—it’s also practical and meaningful. Artists and jewelers prize it for its durability and striking appearance.
Many people believe jasper has grounding and calming properties, making it a favorite for personal use in meditation or as a talisman.
Great Places to Find Jasper in Michigan
If you’re ready to hunt for jasper, there are plenty of spots to explore. Here are a few I recommend:
- Lake Superior Shorelines: The beaches along Lake Superior are a treasure trove for rockhounds. After storms, you can often find jasper mixed with other stones like agates and quartz.
- Ludington State Park: Located along Lake Michigan, this park is a fantastic spot for beachcombing and exploring. The shoreline and dunes often reveal small pieces of jasper, especially after high winds or waves.
- Presque Isle Park in Marquette: This scenic park offers rocky shores where jasper can be found among other unique stones.
Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining in Michigan
We’ve created a list of our favorite gem hunting locations for adults and children to enjoy. Adults can look for gems in these locations, and we made sure to include our suggestions for where kids may learn about and engage with gemstones.
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
Isle Royale National Park

Keweenaw County, MI, United States
Isle Royale National Park is located near the northern tip of Lake Superior. This remote area is known for its rugged beauty and abundant natural resources. You can search for gemstones in the park’s streams and rivers or purchase bags of “mining rough” from local vendors containing various gems.
For those looking to explore this unique location even further, there are guided tours available to learn more about the history and geography of Isle Royale National Park.
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Isle Royal National Park
- Barite
- Chlorastrolite
- Datolite
- Epidote
- Natrolite
- Prehnite
The Best Time To Visit Isle Royal National Park
The park is open from mid-April to mid-October, and the warmer months are the best time to search for gems. The water levels are usually lower, making it easier to access the shoreline and dig for gems in the riverbeds.
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!
Caledonia Mine

Caledonia Rd, Ontonagon, MI 49953, United States
Caledonia Mine is a former copper mine located in Houghton County. The mine operated between 1843 and 1972 and was one of the largest copper mines in the country during its peak production in the early 1900s.
Today, the mine allows you to search for gems and minerals and pan for gold at the mine. The mine also offers guided tours of the historic Caledonia Mine and its underground tunnels. And if you’re looking for Michigan crystals, this place belongs to your must-visits here.
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Caledonia Mine
High-quality minerals and gems are found in this area. The most common kinds of gemstones found here include:
- Calcite
- Datolite
- Epidote
- Feldspar
- Quartz
The Best Time To Visit Caledonia Mine
The best time to visit Caledonia Mine is during the summer months, from June to August. You’ll have the best chance of finding gems in the mine during this time. It’s also important to remember that searching for gemstones is a weather-dependent activity, and certain conditions must be met for mining to be successful.
McClain State Park

18350 M-203, Hancock, MI 49930, United States
McClain State Park is located on the south shore of Lake Huron in Presque Isle County. The park features a variety of outdoor activities, including gem hunting, hiking, camping, and more. The park lets you enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and the Great Lakes region.
This state park is home to a unique gemstone mining experience, where you can purchase buckets of sand and sift through them for precious gems. It’s the perfect way to spend a day outdoors at McClain State Park with family or friends!
The Types Of Gemstones Found At McClain State Park
The gemstones and minerals found here are:
- Chalcedony
- Jasper
- Keweenaw Agate
The Best Time To Visit McClain State Park
The best time to visit McClain State Park is typically in the summer, from June to August. The warmer temperatures and long days make it easier to search for gems. Additionally, the park is open year-round, and you can enjoy finding gems regardless of the season.
Thunder Bay Mining Company – Great for kids

925 S Main St D-3, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States
Thunder Bay Mining Company is a family-owned and operated business located in the state’s Upper Peninsula. Founded in 2020, the company provides a unique and exciting experience for those looking to explore the beauty of nature through locating gems.
You can purchase kits that contain everything they need for an enjoyable gem hunt experience. Whether for fun or educational purposes, the Thunder Bay Mining Company offers an unforgettable adventure for all ages!
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Thunder Bay Mining Company
Here you may discover some of the most common gemstones, including:
- Adventurine
- Amethyst
- Calcite
- Citrine
- Emerald
- Fluorite
- Garnet
- Moonstone
- Obsidian
- Peridot
- Pyrite
- Quartz
- Raspberry Quartz
- Rose Quartz
- Sapphire
- Smoky Quartz
- Sodalite
- Topaz
The Best Times To Visit Thunder Bay Mining Company
Thunder Bay Mining Company is open from 10 AM to 7 PM, Mondays to Sundays. It’s best to visit during the summer months of June, July, and August since they are closed in winter. During the summer, you can also join guided tours to learn about geology and mining techniques.
Cedar Panning Co – Great for kids

4820 French Rd, Alpena, MI 49707, United States
Cedar Panning Co is an experience perfect for families, groups, and individuals looking for a unique adventure. With their on-site sluice, you can sift through sand, gravel, and water to uncover gemstones. They also provide tools and instruction to help you find your treasures, and their knowledgeable staff is always available to answer any questions and provide assistance. Children may take their gemstones found at Cedar Panning Co home.
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Cedar Panning Co
You can seek various gemstones in this location. Most gem hunters will discover these in particular:
- Amethyst
- Aquamarine
- Citrine
- Garnet
- Peridot
- Quartz
- Rose Quartz
- Sapphire
- Topaz
The Best Time To Visit Cedar Panning Co
The peak season for gem searching at Cedar Panning Co runs from May through September.
Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in Michigan

In addition to the famous spots mentioned above, the state has many other excellent mining sites. Here’s a list of some of the best destinations for adults looking for a real gem mining experience.
- Carnelian Beach – Agates, Carnelian, Quartz
- Champion Mine – Hematite, Sapphire
- Jasper Hill – Jasper, Hematite, Quartz,
- Lake Michigan – Agates, Chlorastrolite, Corals, Obsidian, Quartz
- Mt. Shasta – Garnet
- Muskallonge State Park beach – Agates
- Keweenaw Point – Chalcedony, Jasper, Keweenaw Agate, Thomsonite
- Point Aux Barques – Agates, Marcasite
- Presque Isle – Agate, Chalcedony
- Rockport State Recreation Area – Pyrite
- Rope Mine – Pyrite
- Woodland Park Beach – Agates
The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in Michigan

We also have some excellent suggestions on public gem mining for families who want to introduce their kids to the activity of gemstone mining.
- Silver Town Mini Golf and Gem Mining – 8424 W Hazel Rd, Mears, MI 49436, United States
Michigan Gem Mining Laws And Regulations
Michigan allows recreational gem hunting in several areas throughout the state. The state requires that all rockhounds obtain a license or permit before engaging in hunting activities. All hunters must also abide by the rules and regulations of the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE). To obtain a permit for recreational gem hunting in Michigan, individuals must complete an application with the DEGLE and submit it along with payment for any applicable fees.
For more information, visit the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE) site link above.
Additional places to mine for gems in nearby states
Once you’ve been to every location we listed above and intend to visit the neighboring states below as well, take a look at the guides we’ve made for our suggested places to mine for gems there:
If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered, please leave them in the comments below!