Gem hunting in Missouri has a lot of potential, with gemstones scattered across its diverse landscapes. The state’s geology has left a remarkable variety of materials waiting to be discovered, from sparkling !Quartz to brilliantly colored Mozarkite.

The best hunting grounds are found where nature or man has turned over the soil, bringing hidden gems to the surface. Many enthusiasts have success exploring creek beds after a storm, while others prefer sifting through the rocky piles of old mining sites.

With a little patience, you can uncover a handful of unique stones in places you might have never expected.

We’ll the most promising locations for your search across the Show-Me State. By knowing what specific signs to look for and where to focus your efforts, you can build a stunning collection of Missouri’s most beautiful minerals.

The Gemstones Found In Missouri You Can Mine

Even though Missouri is fortunate to have access to some of the best gemstones, different locations have various conditions and levels of accessibility for gem mining resources. We completely understand it, so we have produced multiple guides to help you find gem mines near you. You can find rare and more common gems with the right information and some luck.

Garnet

Garnet is one of those gems that really catches your eye. It has this rich, deep red color, but it can also be found in other shades like green, yellow, or even black.

This gem actually forms deep inside the Earth when certain minerals get exposed to high temperatures and pressures. Over time, these conditions change the minerals and bind them together, creating the garnet crystals that we see.

Garnet holds a special spot among the valuable rocks in Missouri. It’s not just because it’s pretty to look at. This gemstone is super durable, which makes it great for uses beyond just jewelry.

Think about sandpaper and its gritty texture. Some of it is made from crushed garnet because it’s tough and can help smooth out rough surfaces.

Where you can find garnet in Missouri

• Iron Mountain, St. Francois County

Opal

Opal is like a rainbow trapped inside a rock! With dazzling colors that dance and shimmer, it’s easy to see why so many people are captivated by its beauty.

Deep beneath the ground, tiny bits of silica (think really small grains of sand) get mixed with water. Over time, this mixture settles into nooks and crannies in the ground. The water eventually evaporates, leaving the silica behind to form layers.

These layers, under the right conditions, become opal. What’s super cool about opal is that the way the silica bits arrange themselves determines the play of color in the stone.

Opal is one of the more valuable rocks in Missouri. It might not be as common as in some other places, but it’s there!

When people talk about what opal is worth, they think about how rare it is, the play of color, and where it came from. The more rainbow colors you can see and the brighter they are, the more the opal is usually worth.

Where you can find opal in Missouri

• Decaturville crater, Camden County
• Westerville Limestone, Jackson County
• Seneca, Newton County

Topaz

Topaz is often a clear crystal, but can sometimes have shades of yellow, blue, or even pink. This gem is more than just a pretty face; it has a cool backstory too!

Topaz forms deep below the ground in areas with a lot of heat and pressure, like near volcanoes. Here, the heat helps form a special mix of minerals, which slowly cools down and crystalizes to become topaz.

Over time, thanks to rain and rivers, some of these crystals might get closer to the surface, where lucky rock hunters can find them.

While topaz isn’t the most common find in Missouri, there are areas in the state where these shiny crystals can be spotted.

People value topaz for several reasons. First, when it’s cut and polished, it shines brightly, making it a favorite for jewelry. 

Topaz is also a hard stone, which means it doesn’t scratch easily. So, whether it’s in a ring, necklace, or just in a rock collection, topaz stands out as a durable and dazzling gem!

Where you can find topaz in Missouri

• Graniteville, Iron County
• Fredericktown, Madison County
• Pea Ridge Mine, Washington County

Azurite

Azurite stands out from other rocks and minerals with its stunning deep blue hue. This mineral is a copper carbonate, and that rich blue color comes from the presence of copper in its chemical makeup.

Azurite forms when copper ores get exposed to oxygen and water. Over time, this exposure causes a reaction that results in the creation of azurite. It’s often found in the same areas as another mineral called malachite, which is bright green.

People value azurite for various reasons. The first and most obvious is its color. That deep blue is not only beautiful but also quite rare in the natural world. This makes azurite a favorite among mineral collectors.

Additionally, because of its copper content, azurite has been used as a source of copper metal in some places.

Where you can find azurite in Missouri

• Copper Hill Mine, Crawford County
• Cornwall Mines, Weingarten, Ste. Genevieve County
• Collins Mine, Cooper County

Magnetite

Missouri, known for its rich geological diversity, boasts a collection of minerals that capture the interest of rock enthusiasts everywhere. One such mineral is magnetite.

With its distinct dark black or iron-grey color, magnetite is easily recognized, but what really makes it stand out is its magnetic nature.

Magnetite forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. When hot magma or lava cools down, certain minerals begin to crystallize. In environments with plenty of iron and oxygen, magnetite can form.

It can also emerge in sedimentary rocks, but it’s more commonly found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. 

People find value in magnetite for a variety of reasons. For starters, its magnetic properties have been used in compasses for navigation for centuries.

Beyond that, magnetite is a major source of iron, which means it plays a big role in the production of steel.

Every time you see a building with steel beams or use a tool made of steel, there’s a good chance magnetite had a role to play in its creation.

Where you can find magnetite in Missouri

• Pea Ridge Mine, Washington County
• Iron Mountain, St. Francois County
• Pilot Knob, Iron County

Pyrite

One of the standout minerals in Missouri is pyrite. Known as “fool’s gold” because of its shiny, gold-like appearance, pyrite has its own unique charm and value.

While it might look like gold at first glance, a closer look will reveal its distinct differences, such as a brighter sheen and a more brassy color.

Pyrite forms in a variety of rock environments, from sedimentary to igneous rocks. Its formation often occurs when sulfur combines with iron in the presence of a small amount of gold.

This combination creates beautiful, shiny crystals that can be cubic in shape or come as flat discs.

For many years, pyrite was used to produce sulfuric acid, a key component in batteries, fertilizers, and many other products. It’s also sometimes found in jewelry, where its bright, metallic luster can be quite appealing. 

Where you can find pyrite in Missouri

• Sheffler’s Rock Shop and Geode mine, Clark County
• Buick Mine, Bixby, Iron County
• Sweetwater Mine, Ellington, Reynolds County

Fluorite

Fluorite is a mineral that can capture anyone’s attention with its stunning range of colors. From vibrant purples to cool greens and even clear crystals, fluorite showcases nature’s brilliant palette.

Fluorite forms in places where hot water circulates through rocks, dissolving certain minerals and then depositing them in cracks and cavities. As time goes on, these deposits grow and become the beautiful crystals we see.

The various colors of fluorite come from different trace elements and impurities within its structure.

Aside from its obvious beauty, fluorite has practical applications too. It’s used in the manufacture of certain chemicals and even in lenses because of its unique properties in bending light.

Collectors and jewelry makers also cherish fluorite for its stunning hues and the way it can be shaped and polished to make striking pieces.

Where you can find fluorite in Missouri

• Shepherd Mountain
• Pea Ridge Mine, Washington County
• West Fork, Reynolds County

Gypsum

One standout mineral in Missouri is gypsum. This rock might seem plain at first, but it has some pretty cool secrets to share!

Gypsum forms in places where sea or lake waters evaporate, leaving behind this mineral. Over time, the remaining minerals build up, and voila, we get gypsum crystals.

These crystals can be clear and shiny, or they can have a soft, white appearance.

Gypsum is more than just a pretty rock. It has a softness that makes it easy to work with. Builders use it to make drywall for houses.

You might have even heard of “Plaster of Paris.” That’s a type of gypsum too! It’s used for making casts for broken bones and in various crafts.

Beyond its practical uses, gypsum also finds its way into some jewelry and decorative items because of its unique crystal shapes.

Where you can find gypsum in Missouri

• Joplin, Jasper County
• Jaeger Knob, Clarksville, Pike County

Amethyst

Amethyst is a stunning purple variety of quartz, and it’s a favorite among many who love rocks and minerals.

This beautiful stone gets its unique color from iron impurities and sometimes other trace elements. When amethyst is exposed to natural radiation over long periods, these impurities give the quartz its signature purple hue.

In Missouri, amethyst can be found as individual crystals or as clusters inside geodes. Geodes are round rocks with hollow centers that are lined with crystals. These geodes form when mineral-rich water fills cavities in rocks.

Over time, as the water evaporates, it leaves behind the minerals that grow into crystals.

Amethyst is highly valued for many reasons. Its stunning color makes it popular for jewelry, and it’s also used in home decor and for other decorative purposes.

Where you can find amethyst in Missouri

• Cherry Valley Mines, Steelville, Crawford County
• Dent County
• Moselle No. 10 Mine, Phelps County

Chalcedony

Chalcedony is a fascinating gemstone that belongs to the quartz family. Unlike its see-through cousin, clear quartz, chalcedony has a waxy luster and is often translucent or opaque.

This gemstone can come in many colors, from soft blues to vibrant reds, and every shade in between.

Chalcedony forms when tiny quartz crystals band together. Over time, mineral-rich water seeps into spaces in rocks, and as it evaporates, it leaves behind these small quartz crystals.

These crystals slowly grow and mesh together, creating the smooth, even texture that chalcedony is known for.

Among the gemstones found in Missouri, chalcedony has a special place because of its versatility and beauty. It can be found in various forms like nodules, layered bands, or even as fillings in cracks and cavities of rocks. 

Chalcedony’s unique appearance makes it a favorite for jewelry, especially when it shows bands of different colors.

Where you can find chalcedony in Missouri

• Tiff, Washington County
• Crowley’s Ridge, Malden, Dunklin County
• Potosi, Washington County

Chrysocolla

Chrysocolla is a dazzling gemstone with a vibrant blue-green hue that instantly grabs attention. This stone is often found in association with copper deposits, which gives it its fantastic color.

The formation of chrysocolla is an exciting tale of chemistry and patience. When water trickles through copper-bearing rocks, a reaction occurs. This reaction between the copper and the water forms chrysocolla over time.

While chrysocolla isn’t the most common stone you’d find in Missouri, its presence does add to the rich tapestry of the state’s geological wonders.

Jewelers and crafters love working with chrysocolla because it can be turned into stunning jewelry pieces. When polished, its vivid colors stand out even more, making it a favorite choice for necklaces, earrings, and rings.

Where you can find chrysocolla in Missouri

• Mine La Motte, Madison County
• Viburnum Trend Mining District
• Fredericktown, Madison County

Jasper

Jasper is one of those stones that always surprises with its array of colors and patterns. From bold reds to earthy browns and even greens, it’s like a rainbow trapped in a rock.

The formation of jasper starts deep within the Earth. It forms from sediment or volcanic ash that gets mixed with mineral-rich water. Over a lot of time, and with a bit of pressure, this mix turns into the solid, colorful stone we know and love.

The stone’s unique patterns come from the different minerals present when jasper is forming.

Each piece of jasper is unique. That means if you have a jasper necklace or ring, it’s one-of-a-kind! Plus, its vibrant colors and patterns make it a favorite for jewelry and decoration.

Where you can find jasper in Missouri

• Plank Mine, Dent County
• Joplin, Jasper County
• Benton County

Malachite

Malachite is a gemstone that grabs attention with its bright green color, often showcasing unique banding and patterns that make each piece stand out.

This vibrant stone doesn’t just look good; it also has an exciting story behind its formation.

Deep underground, when water rich in carbon dioxide interacts with copper deposits, malachite starts to take shape.

Over time, this interaction causes copper carbonate hydroxide mineral to form. This mineral gives malachite its signature green hue.

Meanwhile, the beautiful bands and patterns are a result of the changes in the environment as the stone forms, with each layer representing a different period in its history.

Apart from its captivating appearance, many appreciate its historical significance. For generations, it’s been used in jewelry, ornaments, and even in powdered form as a cosmetic.

Where you can find malachite in Missouri

• Rueppele Copper Mine, Stanton, Franklin County
• Slater Mine, Eminence, Shannon County
• Sweetwater Mine, Ellington, Reynolds County

Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a colorful and fascinating gemstone that comes in a rainbow of shades, from deep black to vibrant pink and everything in between.

When these hot fluids deep inside the Earth travel through gaps in rocks, they leave behind the elements that make up tourmaline. As time goes by, these elements come together, and voila! We get the beautiful tourmaline crystals.

Among the rocks and minerals found in Missouri, tourmaline stands out for its unique look and properties.

Apart from its beauty, people value it for its versatility in jewelry. Because it comes in so many colors, there’s a tourmaline for every outfit and occasion.

Where you can find tourmaline in Missouri

• Decaturville crater, Camden County

Beryl

Beryl is a dazzling gemstone that comes in a variety of beautiful colors. The clear, colorless form of beryl is called goshenite, but when it has some color to it, that’s when things get exciting!

For example, when beryl is green, it’s known as emerald. When it’s blue, it’s called aquamarine.

This gemstone forms deep underground. Picture hot liquids moving through the Earth’s crust. As these liquids cool down, beryl starts to form. The different colors come from different elements that are present in those liquids.

Among the gemstones found in Missouri, beryl has its special place because of its charm and variety. People who know their gems get really excited when they spot beryl in the mix.

Aside from its pretty colors, beryl is tough and durable. This makes it perfect for jewelry like rings or necklaces. When someone wears beryl jewelry, it not only looks stunning but also lasts for a long time.

Where you can find beryl in Missouri

• Fredericktown, Madison County

Galena

Galena is a standout mineral known for its distinctive metallic shine and cubic shape. It often captures attention with its silvery-gray hue. This mineral is primarily made up of lead sulfide, which gives it its weighty feel and metallic luster.

The formation of galena is closely tied to the Earth’s underground processes. Deep beneath the surface, where heat and pressure are at play, the elements lead and sulfur come together in just the right conditions.

Over time, these elements bond and crystallize, resulting in the growth of galena crystals.

Beyond its eye-catching appearance, galena holds significant value for practical reasons. It is one of the primary sources of lead, a metal with numerous applications.

From batteries to protective shields against radiation, the uses of lead extracted from galena are vast.

Additionally, traces of silver are often found within galena, adding to its value.

With its brilliant luster and vital industrial importance, galena holds a special place among the rocks and minerals of Missouri.

Where you can find galena in Missouri

• Lincoln, Benton County
• Decaturville crater, Camden County
• Graniteville, Iron County

Calcite

Calcite is a fascinating mineral with a unique set of characteristics. It’s often transparent or translucent in nature and usually grows into rhombohedral shapes.

In some instances, calcite can even display a rainbow of colors due to the presence of certain impurities.

When calcium-rich waters seep into crevices and begin to evaporate, they leave behind deposits. Over time, these deposits accumulate and harden to form calcite.

The mineral can be found in a variety of environments, from limestone caves to the shells of marine organisms.

The value of calcite extends beyond its looks. One of its notable properties is its ability to refract light, causing objects viewed through it to appear doubled.

This property, known as double refraction, has made calcite useful in certain optical instruments.

Moreover, calcite plays a key role in the construction industry as it’s a primary component of limestone, which is used to make cement.

This mineral adds another layer to the understanding of the rocks and minerals found in Missouri, showcasing the variety and depth of Missouri’s geology.

Where you can find calcite in Missouri

• Pleasant Hill
• Fabius River
• Defiance Quarry

Hematite

Hematite is a remarkable mineral, often captivating onlookers with its deep red or metallic gray hues. Among the variety of rocks found in Missouri, hematite stands out, not just because of its appearance but also due to its rich history and uses.

The formation of hematite typically occurs in areas with standing water or hot springs, or even in volcanic activity. Over time, as iron mixes with oxygen in the water, it gradually forms this dense mineral.

Once formed, hematite showcases a unique characteristic: when scratched across a rough surface, hematite leaves behind a reddish-brown streak, making it easily identifiable.

Hematite is a key source of iron, which plays an indispensable role in everyday life. Iron is used in everything from construction materials and vehicles to tools and appliances.

So, every time someone spots the shiny, metallic luster of hematite, they’re actually looking at the raw form of an element that powers much of modern civilization.

Where you can find hematite in Missouri

• Iron Mountain District
• St. Francois County
• Pea Ridge Mine, Washington County

Mozarkite

Mozarkite is a special rock, especially in the heartland of the United States. Among the myriad of rocks found in Missouri, mozarkite holds a place of pride as the state’s official rock.

This stone is a type of chert, characterized by its striking bands and swirls of color. These colors range from reds and pinks to browns, blues, and even greens. It’s truly a visual delight, drawing the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike.

The formation of mozarkite is a fascinating process. Over time, small particles like quartz get deposited layer by layer.

As these layers build up, they undergo heat and pressure changes, eventually solidifying into the beautiful, banded rock known as mozarkite.

As Missouri’s official rock, mozarkite holds cultural and historical significance. Many people value it for jewelry and decorative items due to its vibrant patterns.

Moreover, because of its durability, it was used by Native American populations for tools and weapons.

Where you can find mozarkite in Missouri

• Lincoln, Benton County
• Missouri River
• Lake of the Ozarks

Quartz

Quartz is a mineral that captures the attention of many with its sparkling clarity and diverse range of colors. Among the various crystals found in Missouri, quartz is undeniably one of the most recognized and admired.

This mineral is formed from a combination of oxygen and silicon, two of the most abundant elements in the Earth’s crust. As molten rock cools down, quartz begins to crystallize.

Depending on the environment and elements present during its formation, quartz can take on different colors.

From the milky white of common quartz to the deep purple of amethyst or even the sunny yellow of citrine, this mineral showcases nature’s ability to paint with a broad palette.

Quartz’s hard and durable nature makes it a popular choice for jewelry. Additionally, because of its unique electrical properties, quartz is used in various industries, from electronics to timekeeping.

Watches, radios, and many technological devices rely on the properties of quartz crystals to function.

Where you can find quartz in Missouri

• Bixby, Iron County
• The Ozarks
• Joplin, Jasper County

Sphalerite

Sphalerite stands out in the world of minerals due to its intriguing characteristics and importance.

This mineral is primarily composed of zinc sulfide and can contain traces of other elements that influence its color, ranging from yellow-brown to black. 

Sphalerite forms in a variety of geological environments, but most commonly in hydrothermal veins. As hot, mineral-rich water moves through cracks in the Earth, it cools and the minerals in the water begin to crystallize. 

Over time, sphalerite is formed.

The value of sphalerite goes beyond its appearance. It is the primary ore of zinc, making it extremely important for industrial purposes. Zinc is used in many products, from galvanized steel to batteries and even sunscreen. 

Where you can find sphalerite in Missouri

• Ellington, Reynolds County
• West Fork, Reynolds County
• Joplin, Jasper County

Agate

Agate, with its mesmerizing patterns and vibrant hues, is truly a wonder of the mineral world. Among the many fascinating rocks found in Missouri, agate holds a special place due to its captivating beauty and intriguing formation process.

This unique mineral starts its journey as a hollow void or bubble in a host rock. Over time, layers of silica from groundwater fill this void, depositing in concentric rings.

Each layer might vary in color and pattern based on the minerals present, resulting in the distinctive banded appearance that agate is known for.

Missouri’s varied landscape and abundant groundwater sources allow for the right mix of conditions needed for agate to develop. These factors combine to make Missouri a great place for enthusiasts and collectors to find this beautiful mineral.

Agate has practical value as well. Its hardness and durability make it suitable for jewelry, ornaments, and even some tools.

Where you can find agate in Missouri

• Tiff, Washington County
• Malden, Dunklin County
• St. Louis, Missouri

Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining in Missouri

To kick things off we’ve put together several of our absolute favorites spots to dig and search. If you are going to be starting out anywhere these are going to be great choices. There are a mix of sites for experienced folks as well as kids who are just starting out.

Sweetwater Mine

1382 Sweetwater, Mine Rd, Ellington, MO 63638, United States

Sweetwater Mine is a gem mining attraction in the Ozarks, where you can pan for gems and minerals and learn about their natural history. The Sweetwater Mine offers a variety of activities that we tried, including gemstone identification, sluicing, and gold panning.

The mine gave us an educational experience where we learned about different rocks and minerals in the area. You can also purchase mineral specimens or jewelry made with gemstones found at the mine.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Sweetwater Mine

• Bornite
• Calcite
• Dolomite
• Malachite
• Marcasite
• Millerite
• Pyrite
• Quartz
• Sphalerite

The Best Time To Visit Sweetwater Mine

The weather is warm in June, July, and August, allowing for the best gem mining experiences. The summer months also provide plenty of daylight hours for you to explore and enjoy their time at this mine.

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.

With this field guide you'll be able to:

1. Identify 140 different rocks and minerals in seconds
2. Turn every hike and walk into a treasure hunt
3. Finally understand which rare and interesting rocks are in your collection
4. Stop walking past beautiful and potentially valuable rocks and minerals

Bonne Terre Mine

185 Park Ave, Bonne Terre, MO 63628, United States

The Bonne Terre Mine is a former lead and zinc mining operation located in the town of Bonne Terre. The mine is now part of a state park, allowing you to explore an abandoned mine site and learn about its history and importance to the state’s mining industry. You can take guided tours of the mine, learn about mineral extraction techniques, and explore underground caverns. You can even find amazing Missouri crystals here!

This mine is a unique experience for those already into gem hunting. We suggest you try out their underground tours for a chance to mine gems in a completely different but exciting way.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Bonne Terre Mine

• Calcite
• Dolomite
• Marcasite
• Pyrite
• Pyrrhotite
• Quartz
• Sphalerite

The Best Time To Visit Bonne Terre Mine

The summer months, from May to August, are perfect for exploring the depths of the mine. The mine is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, and special events and tours are available throughout the summer months.

Talking Rocks Cavern – Great for kids

423 Fairy Cave Ln, Branson West, MO 65737, United States

Talking Rocks Cavern is a family-friendly, interactive cave in Branson West and one of the Ozarks’ most exciting and unique attractions. The cavern was discovered in 1949 and opened to the public in 1967. Today, you can mine gems, fossils, and minerals in an authentic cave environment.

It has various activities, including gem panning, sluicing, and rock climbing. You can take home the gemstones found as souvenirs or have them cut and polished for jewelry. This attraction also offers educational programs about geology and cave life.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Talking Rocks Cavern

• Agate’
• Amethyst
• Calcite
• Fluorite
• Pyrite
• Quartz

The Best Time To Visit Talking Rocks Cavern

The cave is open year-round, but the summer provides the best weather for exploring its many wonders. During this time, temperatures are generally mild and pleasant, making it a great time for gem miners to explore the caverns and enjoy their natural beauty.

Sheffler Rock Shop – Great for kids

26880 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Kahoka, MO 63445, United States

Sheffler Rock Shop is a family-owned and operated business in Buffalo. The shop carries various rocks, minerals, fossils, gemstones, and lapidary supplies. The shop has what you need if you want something unique or need supplies to start your gem hunting adventures!

The shop also has a vast area where you can dig for gemstones, where we tried our luck to locate rare gems. Many people were present, so you must be prepared for the crowd when you visit.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Sheffler Rock Shop

• Amethyst
• Aquamarine
• Citrine
• Garnet
• Jasper
• Moonstone
• Onyx
• Opal
• Peridot
• Quartz

The Best Time To Visit Sheffler Rock Shop

The best time to visit Sheffler Rock Shop is during the summer months, from May to September. The shop is open year-round, but due to Missouri’s extreme temperatures in winter, it may be best to plan your visit for a warmer season.

Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in Missouri

After you’ve had the chance to explore the areas we previously featured, there are many more great sites you can visit to go real gem mining in Missouri. These places are intended for people with a lot of experience mining gems who want to look for more active mines.

• Adrian’s Quarry – Calcite, Marcasite, Millerite, Pyrite
• Alice Mine – Dolomite, Pyrite, Quartz, Smithsonite, Sphalerite
• Bleeding Hill Mine – Cuprite, Pyrite
• Chariton River – Calcite, Quartz
• Copper Hill Mine – Azurite, Barite, Gypsum, Hematite, Malachite, Marcasite, Pyrite, Quartz
• Crooked Creek Crater – Barite, Marcasite, Pyrite, Sphalerite
• Cuthbertson Mountain – Epidote, Garnet, Hematite, Malachite
• Danville Quarry – Calcite, Dolomite, Millerite, Pyrite
• Decaturville Crater – Albite, Marcasite, Opal, Pyrite, Sphalerite, Tourmaline
• Defiance Quarry – Calcite, Marcasite, Pyrite, Sphalerite
• Fabius River – Barite, Calcite, Fluorite, Malachite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
• Hinch Copper Mine – Cuprite, Hematite, Malachite, Marcasite
• Moselle Iron Mines – Amethyst, Azurite, Hematite, Malachite, Marcasite, Pyrite, Quartz
• New Falls Creek Road Roadcut – Calcite
• Old Mines – Barite, Calcite, Malachite, Marcasite, Pyrite, Quartz
• Rueppele Iron Mine – Amethyst, Azurite, Cuprite, Gypsum, Hematite, Marcasite, Pyrite, Quartz, Siderite
• Shepperd of the Hills Expressway Roadcut – Hematite, Malachite, Quartz
• Simmons Mine – Hematite, Quartz

The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in Missouri

Listed below are more fun, family-friendly locations for parents who want to introduce their kids to gem mining.

• Branson Mountain Adventure – 935 Historic Hwy 165, Branson, MO 65616, United States
• Haunted Ridge Rocks – 11367 Roderick Rd, Cadet, MO 63630, United States

Missouri Gem Mining Laws And Regulations

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulates the extraction of minerals from state lands, including gemstones in Missouri. A permit is required for all mineral extraction activities on state-owned land.

Using explosives to extract minerals from state lands is illegal without a DNR permit. All mining operations must be conducted safely and responsibly, with due respect for the environment and public safety. It is also illegal to cause damage to any surface or subsurface features of state lands without a permit from DNR, such as removing vegetation or altering stream courses or drainage patterns.

For further details on Missouri’s gem mining laws and regulations, use the above link to visit the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

Additional places to mine for gems in nearby states

When you’ve visited all the places listed above, you may use the list of guides we’ve gathered below to discover even more precious gems in surrounding states:

• Gem mining in Arkansas
• Gem mining in Illinois
• Gem mining in Iowa
• Gem mining in Kansas
• Gem mining in Kentucky
• Gem mining in Nebraska
• Gem mining in Oklahoma
• Gem mining in Tennessee

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