The 20 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In New Jersey In 2025

By Keith Jackson - Geologist

| Updated

The 20 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In New Jersey In 2025

By Keith Jackson - Geologist

Updated

New Jersey is home to some of the most stunning natural gems and minerals in the United States. From its rolling hills to its sandy beaches, our state has something to offer for everyone.

Whether you’re a beginner looking to take your first steps into the world of gem hunting, or an experienced gem miner seeking the latest finds, this state has a wealth of gems just waiting to be discovered. With a variety of locations offering different experiences, here are some of the best spots for this adventure!

The best places to mine gems here are in the hills, mountains, beaches, quarries, creeks, and lakes. Among these are Snake Hill, Higbee Beach, The Palisades, Franklin Mineral Museum, and Sterling Hill Mining Museum, which we have discussed more in depth below.

How We Picked The Best Places For Gem Mining in New Jersey
In order to find the absolute best places in New Jersey for gem mining, we had to consider a lot of things. It can be really tough to find good information, so it took us a long time to put together a solid list like the one below. The main inputs to our recommendations are as follows:

  • 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 New Jersey You Can Mine

Amber

Clear piece of Amber showing an insect inside

Amber is a captivating gemstone that has been treasured for centuries. It’s actually a fossilized tree resin that has hardened over millions of years. This unique process of preservation gives it its beautiful golden color and stunning clarity.

In New Jersey, you can find different types of Amber, each with its own distinct characteristics. Some contain inclusions of insects or plant material, adding to their scientific and historical value.

Amber is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal and historical significance. Because of the way it was formed, it provides valuable insights into prehistoric ecosystems, making it a valuable resource for scientific research. It’s also believed to possess healing properties, promoting balance, clarity, and positive energy.

Where you can find Amber in New Jersey

Amber abundantly occurs in New Jersey and you can find it by exploring the following areas:

  • Bridgeport & Gibbstown area sands and gravels
  • Crosswicks Creek
  • Jean & Ric Edelman Fossil Park

How to find amber

A great video of a fellow rockhound searching for Amber in the area

Pearl

Three pieces of raw white Pearls

Known for its lustrous appearance and timeless elegance, Pearl is a stunning gem that’s worth noticing. Unlike most gemstones, it’s not formed within the Earth but is produced by living organisms known as mollusks, such as oysters and mussels.

The formation of a pearl begins when an irritant, such as a grain of sand or a parasite, enters the soft tissue of a mollusk. In response, the mollusk secretes layers of a substance called nacre, also known as mother-of-pearl, around the irritant. Over time, these layers build up and form a beautiful, iridescent pearl.

Pearls are highly valued (checkout Pearl’s prices here) for their natural beauty and rarity. Their iridescent luster and delicate colors make them a popular choice for jewelry. They also have cultural and historical significance in many societies and are often associated with wealth, femininity, and timeless style.

Where you can find Pearl in New Jersey

You can find Pearls in the following places in our state:

  • Morris Countywide in lakes and streams
  • Passaic Countywide in lakes and streams
  • Sussex Countywide in lakes and streams

Sunstone

Raw orange Sunstone specimen

Sunstone is a dazzling gem that exhibits a unique play of light, resembling the warm hues of the sun. It’s a variety of Feldspar that gets its captivating optical effects from the presence of tiny Copper or Hematite inclusions.

The formation of Sunstone begins deep within the Earth’s crust, where molten rock, or magma, slowly cools and solidifies. During this cooling process, Copper or Hematite separate from the Feldspar, forming inclusions that create its characteristic shimmer and sparkle.

Sunstone is often used in jewelry and decorative pieces to add a touch of warmth and vibrancy. It’s also believed to have metaphysical properties, such as promoting positive energy, creativity, and vitality.

Where you can find Sunstone in New Jersey

You can find Sunstone in Mine Hill, specifically near its summit, in its area mining dumps, and in the Alan Wood Iron Mine.

Marble

Raw Marble specimen in white hue
Marble photo provided by and available for purchase at MyLostGems

With its exquisite beauty and versatility, Marble has enchanted civilizations for centuries. It forms from limestone that was subjected to intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s crust in a process called, “Metamorphism“.

In New Jersey, one prominent variety of Marble that you can find is the Franklin Marble, which displays stunning hues of white, gray, and pink. It’s famous for its exceptional crystalline structure and is often admired for its use in architectural applications.

Another notable variety is the Cockeysville Marble, which features shades of white, beige, and gray. It’s known for its durability and has been used in the construction of buildings and monuments throughout history.

Truly, Marble is highly valued for its remarkable aesthetic qualities. In fact, each of its piece is one-of-a-kind! If you’re curious to know just how valuable Marble is, checkout our article on that, too.

Where you can find Marble in New Jersey

You can find Marble in the exposures of Turkey Mountain near Lake Valhalla.

Galena

An excellent specimen of galena skeleton crystals
Galena photo provided by @finemineralphotography and Gabor Koller

As the primary ore of lead, Galena is known for its distinctive metallic luster and crystal structure that resembles cubes.

The Franklinite-Galena Ore is a notable variety found in the famous Franklin and Sterling Hill mines in our state. It often occurs alongside other minerals like zinc and iron, creating a visually striking combination.

Galena is highly valued for its lead content and its significance as an industrial mineral. Lead has a wide range of applications: from batteries and ammunition to construction materials and radiation shielding. Galena’s density and low melting point make it an ideal source of lead.

Where you can find Galena in New Jersey

There are several locations in our state where you can find Galena, such as:

  • Mining dumps along Cork Hill Road in Franklin
  • Prospect Park Quarry
  • Quarries and area exposures in Union County

Franklinite

Stunning piece of intricately-shaped black Franklinite

Franklinite holds a special place in the geological heritage of our state. In fact, it a senate bill was even passed to make it New Jersey’s official state mineral. Named after the town of Franklin, where it was first discovered, Franklinite is a complex ore mineral known for its dark color and metallic luster.

Franklinite forms when hot mineral-rich fluids interact with rocks deep within the Earth’s crust. Some specimens of this mineral from New Jersey exhibit a deep black color, while others have hints of brown, gray, or even reddish hues.

Franklinite is highly valued for its industrial applications due to its iron and zinc content. Iron is crucial for the production of steel, while zinc has various uses in automotive, construction, and agricultural industries. Its manganese content is also used in the production of alloys, batteries, and fertilizers.

Where you can find Franklinite in New Jersey

You can find Franklinite in the area zinc mines of Franklin, especially along Cork Hill Road. You can also uncover specimens of this mineral at the Sterling Hill Mine.

Datolite

Cluster of yellow Datolite
Datolite photo provided by Weinrich Minerals

Datolite is a captivating mineral that forms in hydrothermal environments. It’s most notable variety that you can find in New Jersey is the green Datolite. Other color variations include shades of white, yellow, and brown.

This mineral is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal. Its vibrant colors, translucent nature, and well-formed crystal structures make it a sought-after addition to mineral collections. Datolite’s unique beauty and its ability to display different colors and formations contribute to its desirability among collectors.

Moreover, Datolite also holds scientific importance. Studying this mineral helps geologists better understand the hydrothermal history of New Jersey.

Where you can find Datolite in New Jersey

Datolite is well-scattered in our state, so you can find it in plenty spots here, including:

  • Basalt and diabase outcrops and road cuts of Bergen County
  • Haledon area quarries
  • South on Silver Road

Goethite

Brown sparkling Goethite specimen
Goethite photo provided by The Mineral Collective – @themineralcollective

Goethite is an iron oxide mineral that often occurs in association with other iron minerals, such as Hematite and Limonite. It also exhibits a wide range of colors and formations, captivating the attention of rock enthusiasts and collectors.

The most common variety of Goethite that you’ll find in New Jersey is the Botryoidal Goethite, which forms rounded, grape-like clusters. These formations can display colors ranging from yellow to brown, giving them a striking and eye-catching appearance.

Just like Datolite, Goethite also has scientific contributions. Geologists better understand the history of weathering and mineral deposition in New Jersey by studying this mineral.

Where you can find Goethite in New Jersey

You can find Goethite in the following areas in our state:

  • Haledon area quarries
  • Pompton Lakes area quarries

The Gemstones Found In New Jersey

Aside from rocks and minerals, New Jersey also has a diverse range of precious and semi-precious gemstones. If you want to know where to find them, better check out our full guides here:

Prehnite

Round clusters of light green Prehnite
Prehnite photo provided by Collector’s Edge Minerals – @collectorsedgeminerals

Prehnite is an enchanting gemstone that has captivated the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts and collectors with its soothing green hues and unique crystal formations.

The most notable variety of Prehnite that you can find in New Jersey is the Franklin Prehnite, named after the famous Franklin mining district. This variety is known for its apple-green color and can occur as well-formed crystals or botryoidal aggregates.

Prehnite is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal and metaphysical properties. Its serene green color make it a favored gem for jewelry. It’s also believed to promote inner peace, clarity, and emotional balance. Associated with spiritual growth, it’s said to enhance intuition and connect you with higher realms of consciousness.

Where you can find Prehnite in New Jersey

Prehnite abounds in New Jersey, so you can find it in many areas of our state, such as:

  • Somerville area quarries
  • Upper Montclair area quarries
  • Watchung Mountains

Carnelian

A bunch of rough bright orange Carnelian specimens

Carnelian has been cherished for centuries for its warm, fiery colors and rich cultural significance. As a variety of Chalcedony, it’s known for its vibrant shades of orange, red, and brown.

In ancient times, it was believed to have protective and healing powers, symbolizing courage and strength. Today, it’s still highly regarded for its energizing and revitalizing properties, believed to enhance motivation, creativity, and self-confidence.

As a gemstone, Carnelian is widely used in jewelry, adding a touch of warmth and vibrancy to designs. Its distinct colors and varied patterns make each specimen unique and highly sought after by collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

If you’re struggling to tell carnelian apart from similar rocks and minerals, our informative guides are here to save the day:

Where you can find Carnelian in New Jersey

You can find Carnelian if you explore the following spots:

  • Stirling Brook
  • Creek south of Passaic River
  • Basalt and diabase outcrops and road cuts in Bergen County

Opal

Rough Opal showing its spectral colors display

Opal is a gemstone that enchants with its play of vibrant colors and captivating iridescence. It’s composed of tiny spheres that diffract light, creating a stunning display of spectral colors.

This gem is highly valued for its extraordinary visual effects and its symbolic meanings. It’s often associated with inspiration, creativity, and love. It’s also regarded as birthstones for October, symbolizing hope and purity. Read more about Opal’s current price in the market here.

Opal is sought after for its unique and ever-changing beauty so much so that it’s considered to be a precious gemstone. Its iridescence and vibrant colors make it a popular choice for jewelry, where it can be showcased in rings, necklaces, and earrings.

Where you can find Opal in New Jersey

Opal can be found in several sites in New Jersey, such as:

  • Basalt and diabase outcrops and road cuts in Bergen County
  • Basalt exposures in Hoboken
  • Dover area

Epidote

Stunning dark green to black Stalactite Epidotes
Epidote photo provided by Fine Art Minerals – @fineartminerals

Epidote showcases a stunning range of colors and exhibits unique crystal formations. It’s formed when hot fluids rich in calcium and aluminum interact with rocks under high-pressure conditions. As these fluids cool, they deposit Epidote crystals, creating intricate and eye-catching patterns.

Epidote specimens in New Jersey come with different variations in color, transparency, and crystal size. This gem can range in color from vibrant green to yellow, and even shades of brown.

Epidote is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal and its metaphysical properties. Its rich green color and lustrous shine make it a sought-after gemstone for jewelry. Additionally, it’s believed to promote personal growth, balance, and spiritual well-being.

Where you can find Epidote in New Jersey

Epidote is abundantly scattered in different parts of our state, including:

Malachite

A deep green sprays of malachite on calcite coated goethite
Malachite photo provided by @finemineralphotography and Hungarian Natural History Museum

Malachite, with its vibrant green color and distinctive banding patterns, forms as a result of chemical reactions between copper-rich solutions and limestone or other carbonate rocks.

This gemstone has been valued for centuries for its striking appearance and symbolic meanings. It associated with healing, protection, and transformation. In jewelry, it’s highly sought after for its unique green hues and the beautiful patterns it displays. Check out our article on Malachite’s value and price for more information.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Malachite is also appreciated for its historical and cultural significance. Throughout history, it has been used in decorative arts, such as jewelry, sculptures, and even interior design, adding a touch of natural beauty to various artistic creations.

Where you can find Malachite in New Jersey

You can find Malachite in a handful of areas in our state, particularly:

  • Bergen Hill by Hudson River
  • Cavities and debris in The Palisades
  • Railroad and road cuts from Bayonne to Edgewater

Serpentine

Rough bright green specimen of Serpentine

Serpentine is a fascinating gemstone known for its unique green color and smooth texture. It’s formed through a process called “serpentinization“, which occurs deep within the Earth’s mantle.

You can find Serpentine in different variations in New Jersey, including differences in color— ranging from light green to dark green— as well as in texture and mineral composition.

Serpentine is valued for its aesthetic appeal and its cultural significance. Its smooth texture and rich green color make it a popular choice for carving and crafting unique jewelry pieces. It also has scientific importance since its presence can indicate areas of tectonic activity and the presence of mineral deposits.

Where you can find Serpentine in New Jersey

You can find Serpentine in different areas of our state, such as:

  • Hoboken area Serpentine outcrops
  • Somerville area quarries
  • Turkey Mountain near Lake Valhalla

Siderite

Smoky white Barite crystals on rust-colored Siderite
Barite on Siderite photo provided by Weinrich Minerals

Siderite is a captivating gemstone known for its earthy brown colors and unique crystal formations. It forms through various processes in sedimentary environments.

In New Jersey, Siderite comes in different color intensity, crystal shape, and transparency. It can range in color from light brown to deep brown or even reddish-brown. This is also why it’s valued for its aesthetic appeal, with its earthy tones and unique crystal habits often appreciated in collections and jewelry.

Siderite is also believed to possess metaphysical properties, as it’s associated with grounding, stability, and promoting a sense of calmness and balance.

Where you can find Siderite in New Jersey

You can find Siderite in the following spots:

  • Cavities and debris in The Palisades
  • Railroad and road cuts from Bayonne to Edgewater
  • Snake Hill

Albite

Light blue Aquamarine on a pure white Albite matrix
Albite with Aquamarine photo provided by Collector’s Edge Minerals – @collectorsedgeminerals

Albite is a fascinating crystal known for its beautiful white color and striking transparency. Belonging to the Feldspar mineral group, it’s composed of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen.

Like other crystals, Albite in New Jersey come with different unique characteristics. These variations include differences in transparency, crystal size, and the presence of other minerals.

Because of Albite’s pure white color and transparency, it’s become popular for use in jewelry and decorative purposes. It’s also believed to have calming and balancing energies, promoting emotional well-being and harmony.

Where you can find Albite in New Jersey

You can find Albite in a few places in our state, such as:

  • Snake Hill
  • Sommerville
  • Union County area quarries and exposures

Amethyst

Close up look at the details and purple color of a Scepter Amethyst
Amethyst photo provided by Fine Art Minerals – @fineartminerals

Renowned for its stunning purple color and captivating crystal formation is Amethyst, which belongs to the quartz family. It gets its mesmerizing hues from trace amounts of iron impurities within its crystal structure.

It typically occurs in geode cavities within volcanic or metamorphic rocks.

Both crystal and geode Amethyst naturally occur in New Jersey. It’s highly valued for its beauty and metaphysical properties. Its striking purple color has long been associated with royalty and spirituality. It also adds irresistible elegance and charm to any jewelry. Know more about Amethyst’s value by reading our pricing guide.

As for its metaphysical properties, Amethyst is believed to possess calming and protective energies, promoting clarity of mind, emotional balance, and spiritual growth.

Where you can find Amethyst in New Jersey

You can get a glimpse of the captivating sight of Amethyst in the following places:

  • Brook gravels in Warren Township
  • McBride Avenue abandoned quarry
  • Somerset Crushed Stone Quarry

Chalcopyrite

Black Galena with yellowish gold Chalcopyrite

Chalcopyrite is known for its metallic luster and stunning brassy yellow color. It’s formed in hydrothermal veins, which are formed when hot fluids rich in minerals circulate through cracks and fractures in rocks. As these fluids cool and interact with the surrounding rock, Chalcopyrite crystals grow.

As in other places, Chalcopyrite in New Jersey comes with variations in color, crystal size, and the presence of other minerals. It’s highly valued for its unique appearance and its economic significance. It is a major copper ore and serves as a primary source for the extraction of copper, which is widely used in various industries.

Aside from its practical industrial use, Chalcopyrite’s metallic luster and vibrant color make it a popular choice for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

Where you can find Chalcopyrite in New Jersey

You can find samples of Chalcopyrite in these areas:

  • Middlesex area mines
  • Mine Hill area mines
  • Mt. Freedom area pits, exposures, and road cuts

Fluorite

Fluorite specimen in varying intensities of blue hue
Fluorite photo provided by Weinrich Minerals

Fluorite is an enchanting crystal renowned for its vibrant range of colors and captivating transparency. The presence of different impurities and elements during its formation gives rise to its diverse colors, including purple, green, blue, yellow, and pink.

In New Jersey, Fluorites come in different hues, color intensity and crystal size.

Fluorite is highly valued for its aesthetic appeal and its metaphysical properties. Its vibrant colors make it a sought-after crystal for collectors and jewelry designers. It’s also believed to promote mental clarity, focus, and spiritual growth. Want to know Fluorite’s current market price? Checkout our article on that.

Where you can find Fluorite in New Jersey

Fluorite is pretty much limited in New Jersey. You can find its sole source in our state at the Franklin Furnace.

Hematite

Lustrous grayish black Hematite
Hematite photo provided by The Focal Crystal – @focalcrystal

Hematite is a remarkable crystal known for its metallic luster and deep reddish-brown color. It’s commonly found in sedimentary rocks, but it can also form in hydrothermal veins.

Hematite specimens in New Jersey have different crystal structure, color intensity, and minerals present. Highly valued for its beauty, it’s widely used in jewelry and decorative items. It also has practical uses in the production of steel. Read more about Hematite’s worth and value here.

Beyond its aesthetic and industrial significance, hematite is also believed to possess grounding and protective energies. It’s associated with strength, courage, and enhancing focus and concentration.

Where you can find Hematite in New Jersey

You can uncover Hematite in different nooks and crannies of our state, especially in:

  • Mine Hill area mining dumps
  • Pompton Lakes area quarries
  • Prospect Park Quarry

Pyrite

Stunning piece of golden Pyrite
Pyrite photo provided by Collector’s Edge Minerals – @collectorsedgeminerals

Fool’s gold, anyone?

Just like Gold, Pyrite has a brassy yellow color and metallic luster. It often develops in association with organic matter and can be found in coal beds, shale, and other sedimentary rocks.

Pyrite’s resemblance to gold has earned it its nickname, but it’s appreciated for more than just its deceptive looks. It’s an important source of sulfur and is used in the production of sulfuric acid, a crucial chemical in many industries. Know more about how much Pyrite is worth here.

Pyrite also has metaphysical properties and is believed to possess protective and grounding energies. It’s associated with promoting prosperity, abundance, and positive energy.

Where you can find Pyrite in New Jersey

Pyrite is quite abundant in our state and you can find them in the following areas here:

  • Hibernia area mines
  • Mine Hill area mining dumps
  • Sayreville area sands, gravels, and streams

Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining In New Jersey

We listed our favorite places in our state that both adults and kids can visit to enjoy the experience of gem mining. First on this list are the best spots for adults who want to do real gem hunting, while the next ones are our suggestions for kids who are curious and interested in searching for gems.

Always Confirm Access and Collection Rules!

Before heading out to any of the locations on our list you need to confirm access requirements and collection rules for both public and private locations directly with the location. We haven’t personally verified every location and the access requirements and collection rules often change without notice.

Many of the locations we mention will not allow collecting but are still great places for those who love to find beautiful rocks and minerals in the wild without keeping them. We also can’t guarantee you will find anything in these locations since they are constantly changing. 

Always get updated information directly from the source ahead of time to ensure responsible rockhounding. If you want even more current options it’s always a good idea to contact local rock and mineral clubs and groups

Snake Hill

A Datolite is among the gems that can be found at Snake Hill

Secaucus, NJ 07094, United States

Snake Hill offers a unique experience, as visitors can search through dirt and gravel to find a variety of rare and more common gems. The site has been running since the early 1900s, when miners began extracting gemstones from its rocks. Over the years, it has expanded to include educational programs, gift shops, and a variety of other activities.

The Types of Gems Found In The Snake Hill

This location abounds in different kinds of gems, but it is well-known for having an abundance of the following:

  • Agate
  • Albite
  • Amethyst
  • Analcime
  • Apatite
  • Calcite
  • Datolite
  • Epidote
  • Malachite
  • Opal
  • Quartz
  • Siderite

The Best Time To Visit Snake Hill

If you are eyeing to visit Snake Hill, the best time to do so is during the summer months. This is when the water levels in the streams are at their highest, which makes it easier for you to find gems. The peak months are usually June, July, and August.

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!

Higbee Beach

Quartz can be found in Higbee Beach along with other gemstones

1 Higbees Beach Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States

Higbee Beach, located in Middle Township, is part of the Cape May Peninsula. Gem mining has been a popular activity at this location since the late 1800s, when miners would search for gems along the shoreline. In recent years, it has become an even more popular activity among tourists of this place. You can purchase buckets containing a variety of gems and minerals from vendors onsite and then sift through them in hopes of finding something special. Aside from gems, you can also find New Jersey crystals in this area which makes it all the more appealing to visit.

The Types of Gems Found In The Higbee Beach

This place is rich in different kinds of gems, but the most abundant of them all are the following:

  • Amethyst
  • Chalcedony
  • Citrine
  • Quartz (also called “Cape May Diamond”)

The Best Time To Visit Higbee Beach

The summer months of June, July and August is the best time to visit Higbee Beach. Aside from the water being warmer and the beach being more accessible, the tide is usually low during this time, which makes it easier to find gems in the sand.

The Palisades

A Malachite is among the gems that can be found in The Palisades

Alpine, NJ 07624, United States

The Palisades is home to some of the oldest and most beautiful gem mining sites in the United States. This activity dates back to the early 1700s in this place, when Dutch settlers discovered its gems. Since then, it has been a popular activity for centuries, and you can still enjoy it today. You can explore abandoned mines, search for gems and minerals, or simply take in the stunning views of the Hudson River Valley from atop one of its many cliffs.

The Types of Gems Found In The Palisades

This place is known for having the following gemstones:

  • Agate
  • Albite
  • Amethyst
  • Analcime
  • Apatite
  • Calcite
  • Datolite
  • Epidote
  • Malachite
  • Opal
  • Quartz
  • Siderite

The Best Time To Visit The Palisades

If you have plans to visit The Palisades to search for gems, the best time to do so is typically from April to November. This is when the warm weather makes it easier to go around the place and find gems.

Franklin Mineral Museum – Great for kids

Kids enjoy searching for gems and minerals in one of the dumps of the Franklin Mineral Museum

32 Evans Street, Franklin, NJ 07416

The Franklin Mineral Museum is a gem mining and mineral collecting museum located in the historic town of Franklin. It houses a large collection of minerals from around the world, including a wide variety of gems and crystals. You can explore exhibits about local mining history, learn about gem identification, and explore interactive displays about geology. You can also purchase souvenirs from the museum’s gift shop or take part in gem mining activities at their on-site mine. The museum also offers educational programs for children and adults on topics related to mineralogy, geology, exploration and more.

The Types of Gems Found In The Franklin Mineral Museum

This place contain a rich variety of gems that can be found in its different dumps, making it a great location to teach children all about gems.

The Best Time To Visit Franklin Mineral Museum

The best time to visit the Franklin Mineral Museum is during the summer months of June, July, and August. The warmer temperatures during these months make it easier to work outdoors in the gem mining area and also provide more daylight hours for visitors, especially those who have kids with them, to enjoy their experience.

Sterling Hill Mining Museum – Great for kids

Kids proudly show off the different gems they found at the Sterling Hill Mining Museum.

30 Plant Street Ogdensburg, NJ 07439

Sterling Hill Mining Museum has the largest collection of fluorescent rocks and minerals in the world, featuring over 3,500 specimens from around the world. It offers educational programs and guided tours that explore both the history and science of mining. You can also explore an underground mine tour that will take you through winding tunnels and past huge ore deposits.

The Types of Gems Found In The Sterling Hill Mining Museum

This place has different gemstones that can be found in the region, such as the following:

  • Calcite
  • Diopside
  • Willemite
  • Zincite

The Best Time To Visit Sterling Hill Mining Museum

During the summer months of May through August is the best time to visit Sterling Hill Mining Museum. During this time, it is open from 10am to 4pm daily, and offers a variety of activities like gem mining, fossil digging, and more for visitors to enjoy.

Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in New Jersey

New Jersey is also known for its Amber

The vast riches of New Jersey in terms of gemstones is evident in its many great spots for gem mining. Aside from our favorite ones listed above, here are also some more great spots that you can explore if you want to experience real gem hunting in this state.

  • Bergen Hill – Agate, Albite, Amethyst, Analcime, Apatite, Calcite, Datolite, Epidote, Malachite, Opal, Quartz, Siderite
  • Manasquan Beach – Quartz (“Cape May Diamonds”)
  • Franklin Furnace – Fluorite
  • Stirling Lake – Carnelian
  • Houdaille Quarry – Agate, Amethyst, Prehnite
  • Lambertville Quarry – Axinite, Prehnite, Datolite
  • Crosswick’s Creek – Amber
  • Hoboken – Agate, Amethyst, Magnesite, Opal, Serpentine
  • Mine Hill – Bornite, Calcite, Feldspar, Garnet, Hematite, Pyrite, Quartz, Spinel, Sunstone, Tremolite
  • Turkey Mountain – Diopside, Serpentine
  • Pompton Lakes – Agate, Amethyst, Barite, Calcite, Chalcedony, Cuprite, Datolite, Dolomite, Hematite, Opal, Prehnite, Quartz

The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in New Jersey

A kid curiously sifts through mine rough to find gems at the Hills Creek Farms

For children who are curious and interested in gems and how to search for them, here are some of the best family-friendly places to satisfy that curiosity.

New Jersey Gem Mining Laws And Regulations

New Jersey has laws and regulations governing the mining of precious minerals and stones, including gems. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) regulates the mining of these materials from public lands, including state parks and forests.

If you wish to mine on public lands here, you must obtain a permit from the NJDEP’s Mining Program. The permit application must include a map showing the proposed mining area and other information about the nature of the proposed activity. You are required to comply with certain safety and environmental standards, such as avoiding impacts on wildlife habitat and minimizing dust pollution, among other things.

In addition to obtaining a permit from the NJDEP, gem miners on public lands may also be required to obtain permission from local municipalities or other responsible parties.

For more information on the state’s gem mining laws and regulations, visit the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection link above.

Additional places to mine for gems in nearby states

Check out the guidelines we’ve created for our recommended areas to mine for gems in nearby states when you’ve already visited each of the places we named above:

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

About Keith Jackson - Geologist

Keith Jackson is an avid rockhound who is constantly exploring new sites to expand his collection. He is an active Geologist with a wealth of experience and information from across the country that he loves to share with the Rock Chasing crew.

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