Gem hunting in Ohio is full of surprises. Many people think you have to travel to far away mountains or deserts to find treasures, but the Buckeye State has its own hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

From sparkling quartz crystals tucked into creek beds to colorful flint that once helped Native Americans shape tools, Ohio is packed with natural wonders. You might even stumble on fossils or unique geodes that look plain on the outside but glitter when cracked open.

Whether you are walking along a riverbank, exploring a quarry, or digging in fresh soil, every adventure can reveal something new. Grab your rock hammer and sense of wonder because Ohio gem hunting is a journey worth taking.

The Gemstones Found In Ohio You Can Find

Amethyst

Amethyst is a variety of quartz, and its signature purple color comes from trace amounts of iron and natural irradiation. In Ohio, amethyst tends to be found in geodes—those round, hollow rocks lined with crystal formations inside.

The amethyst here is often lighter in color, ranging from soft lavender to a pale violet, but occasionally, you’ll stumble on deeper hues. We also get “zoned” amethyst, which has bands of purple and clear quartz that make for really interesting patterns.

Why It’s Valuable

Sure, it’s beautiful, but there’s more to amethyst than meets the eye. For one, it’s popular in jewelry and decoration because of its durability and striking color.

On a more personal level, it’s a gem tied to spiritual and healing properties—people believe it brings calm, balance, and clarity. Plus, finding a nice piece of Ohio amethyst feels like unearthing a little slice of local history.

Great Places to Find It Here

There are a few places where you can try your luck and come away with some amethyst treasures.

• Licking County: This area has some rich geological formations where amethyst have been discovered. Streams and erosion-prone spots are the best places to explore, making it a fun destination for a day trip.
• Cincinnati Arch: Geodes containing amethyst have been found in rock layers along this ancient structure. Look for areas where erosion has exposed the layers, like creeks or small quarries.
• Northeast Ohio Quarries: Some old limestone quarries in this part of the state have been known to yield amethyst geodes. Always check to see if you need permission before exploring private land.

Find the best Amethyst spots across Ohio in our complete guide.

Fluorite

Fluorite is a mineral made of calcium fluoride, and it forms in cubic or octahedral crystals. What makes fluorite special is its ability to fluoresce under ultraviolet light, meaning it can glow!

Here in Ohio, most of the fluorite you’ll find is purple, though green and yellow varieties also show up. The mineral is often found alongside others like calcite and quartz, making for some beautiful combinations.

Why It’s Valuable

Fluorite is valuable for a couple of reasons. First, it’s widely used in industries like steelmaking and ceramics because of its chemical properties. But for us collectors, its real value is in its beauty and rarity.

High-quality fluorite specimens are sought after by mineral enthusiasts, and Ohio happens to be a great place to find some.

Great Places to Find It in Ohio

If you’re ready to hunt for some fluorite, you’re in luck—there are several spots in Ohio where you can search for it. Here are a few of the best places to start:

• Stoneco Quarry: This active quarry is known for its beautiful purple fluorite specimens. Be sure to check for permission to collect here, as access can sometimes be limited.
• Flint Ridge State Memorial: While better known for flint, this site also has small fluorite specimens mixed with other minerals. It’s a scenic place to explore, too.
• Nelson Ledges Quarry Park: A favorite among rock hounds, this park has yielded fluorite along with other minerals like quartz. It’s a great place for a day trip with a chance to dig up some treasures.

Diamond

Diamonds are formed deep within the Earth under extreme pressure and heat, eventually making their way to the surface through volcanic activity.

In Ohio, the diamonds found are typically small and uncut, brought here long ago by glaciers during the Ice Age. These “glacial drift diamonds” are unique because they were transported from Canada and scattered across the Midwest, including our state.

Why It’s Valuable

Diamonds are prized for their unmatched brilliance, durability, and rarity. Even though the diamonds found in Ohio are usually small, they hold value because of their natural origins and the sheer luck involved in discovering one.

Plus, for those of us who love the thrill of treasure hunting, the possibility of finding a genuine diamond makes it all the more worthwhile.

Great Places to Find It Here

If you’re looking to try your luck at finding a diamond in Ohio, here are some great spots to explore. While there are no guarantees, these locations are rich in geological history and might just surprise you:

• Milford Area: This small town in southwestern Ohio has a history of glacial activity that left behind a variety of unique stones, including the occasional diamond.
• Sugar Camp Run: Located near the southern part of the state, this stream has been known to carry glacial deposits where lucky rockhounds have discovered rare finds.
• Mahoning County: Situated in northeastern Ohio, this area is another hotspot for glacial deposits, making it a promising place for adventurous diamond seekers.

Get the full scoop on Diamond locations throughout Ohio here.

Tourmaline

Tourmaline is a gorgeous, crystalline mineral that comes in a rainbow of colors, from deep greens to striking pinks and everything in between. It’s known for its unique prismatic shape and is often found alongside quartz and mica.

Here in Ohio, black tourmaline, or schorl, is the most common type. It’s not as flashy as the colorful varieties, but it’s still a prize for rockhounds because of its striking, jet-black sheen and fascinating crystal formations.

Why It’s Valuable

Tourmaline is a powerhouse in the metaphysical world. People believe it has protective and grounding properties, which makes it a popular choice for jewelry and healing practices.

On top of that, its rarity in Ohio means that finding a piece here feels like hitting the jackpot. Even if you’re not into crystals for their “energy,” the uniqueness of Ohio tourmaline makes it a gem worth adding to your collection.

Great Places to Find It Here

Ohio has a few prime spots where you can search for tourmaline. Here are my top recommendations:

• Clear Creek: Known for its beautiful natural setting, this area is also a great place to search for tourmaline and other crystals along the creek beds and rocky areas.
• Jackson County: The rich geological diversity here makes it a favorite for rockhounds. Tourmaline has been found in various sites across the county, especially near old mining locations.
• Everett Sand Rock Quarry: This quarry is a hotspot for finding all kinds of interesting minerals, including black tourmaline. It’s a bit rugged, but with the right tools, you might uncover something incredible.

Explore additional Tourmaline sites throughout Ohio with our detailed guide.

Pyrite (Fool’s Gold)

Pyrite is a mineral made of iron and sulfur (FeS₂). It forms in a variety of shapes and textures, from smooth, cube-like crystals to rough, glittery masses. In Ohio, pyrite is often found in coal mines, shale formations, and even riverbeds.

The most common types you’ll see around here include Massive Pyrite, Cubic Pyrite, and Framboidal Pyrite.

Why It’s Valuable

For one, Pytite brilliant metallic luster and golden color make it a striking display piece. It’s also a great “indicator mineral,” helping geologists learn about the conditions under which certain rocks formed.

Plus, there’s just something magical about finding a glittering treasure out in nature, even if it’s not actual gold.

Great Places to Find It in Ohio

There are plenty of spots to explore. Here are a few of my favorite places:

• Coal Mining Regions in Eastern Ohio: Old coal mines, particularly in areas like Belmont and Guernsey counties, often have leftover pyrite.
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park: While this park is known for its stunning scenery, it also has some promising spots along its rivers and creeks where pyrite nodules occasionally show up.
• Hocking Hills Region: Keep an eye out in streambeds and shale outcrops while hiking—it’s not uncommon to spot some pyrite sparkling in the sunlight.

Agate

Agates are a type of microcrystalline quartz with distinctive bands of color that make each one unique.

In Ohio, we’re lucky to have several types of agates, including Lake Superior agates, carnelian agates, and occasional nodules with vibrant reds, oranges, and browns. These colors come from the presence of iron and other minerals during their formation.

Most of the agates you’ll find here have been shaped and polished naturally by glacial movement, giving them a smooth, rounded appearance.

Why Agates Are Valuable

For starters, they’re beautiful! Agates are prized for their unique patterns and colors, making them popular for jewelry and collectibles. Beyond their aesthetic value, these stones have a rich geological history, which makes them fascinating to study.

Great Places to Find Agates in Ohio

Ohio is a treasure trove for agate hunting if you know where to look. Here are a few of my favorite spots:

• Mohican State Park: Nestled in the heart of the state, Mohican State Park offers both scenic hiking trails and a chance to find agates along its rivers and streams.
• Ashtabula County Beaches: Lake Erie’s shoreline is a hotspot for agate hunting, especially after storms.
• Gravel Pits and Quarries in Central Ohio: These are some of the best spots to find larger specimens.

Find additional Agate spots in our complete Ohio guide.

Calcite

In Ohio, calcite comes in several forms, and each has its charm. Clear or white crystals are the most common, but some have a golden or amber hue that makes them particularly stunning.

Occasionally, you might stumble across fluorescent calcite, which glows under UV light. Another type, dogtooth spar, has sharp, pointed crystals that look like—you guessed it—dog teeth.

Why It’s Valuable

Calcite has practical uses and collector appeal, making it valuable for different reasons. Geologists and rockhounds love it for its beauty and the insights it provides about Ohio’s geological history.

It’s also used in construction, agriculture, and industrial processes like making cement or neutralizing acidic soils. On top of all that, it’s a fantastic teaching tool for understanding crystal structure and mineral formation.

Great Places to Find It Here

If you’re looking to add some Ohio calcite to your collection, you’re in luck—our state is a treasure trove of this mineral. Here are a few of the best spots to explore:

• Stoneco Quarry: This quarry is a favorite among collectors for its well-formed calcite crystals. Just be sure to check for permission before heading in!
• Northwest Ohio: This region is famous for its limestone and dolostone formations, which often host beautifully crystallized calcite. Quarries near Findlay and Carey are especially productive.
• Licking County: While this spot is better known for flint, you can sometimes find calcite crystals tucked into the cracks and cavities of the surrounding limestone.

Opal

Opal is a unique and colorful gemstone that forms when silica and water combine over millions of years. While Ohio isn’t famous for opals compared to places like Australia, we still have our own variety of these fascinating stones.

Most opals found here are common opals rather than the flashy, rainbow-colored precious opals. Ohio’s opals tend to have milky, translucent appearances and soft pastel shades, with occasional specimens showing faint play-of-color.

Why It’s Valuable

The opals you find in Ohio might not make you rich, but they’re definitely worth your time. For starters, they’re a tangible connection to the ancient geological history of our state, formed millions of years ago in sedimentary rocks.

Collecting opals is also a fun, hands-on hobby that gets you out into nature. Plus, these stones make great keepsakes or gifts, especially if you polish them up or turn them into jewelry.

Great Places to Find It Here

If you’re ready, there are some fantastic spots to find Opal in Ohio. Here are my top picks:

• Marble Cliff Quarry: This area is well-known for its sandstone formations and rich geological history. You’re more likely to stumble across small opal specimens near creeks and exposed rock faces.
• Bill Moose Run: This area’s sedimentary deposits can occasionally yield hidden gems if you’re willing to dig a little.
• Ohio River Gravels: Try searching along the riverbanks, especially after heavy rains when fresh material is often washed up.

View our complete Ohio guide for more Opal locations near you.

Calcite

Calcite comes in a variety of forms, and Ohio has its fair share of these beauties. You can find clear, transparent crystals, often called “dogtooth spar,” which are shaped like little spikes. There’s also “drusy” calcite, where tiny, sparkly crystals coat rock surfaces.

If you’re lucky, you might even come across golden or amber calcite, which has a warm, honey-like hue. The color and type depend on where you’re looking and the minerals mixed in during formation.

Why It’s Valuable

Geologists love Calcite because it’s a great indicator of the environments where it formed. For instance, calcite deposits in Ohio tell us about the ancient seas that once covered the state millions of years ago.

Industrially, calcite is important for everything from cement production to agriculture, where it’s used to balance soil pH. And let’s not forget collectors—calcite specimens are highly sought after for their beauty and unique crystal formations.

Great Places to Find It Here

If you want to see some calcite up close, Ohio has plenty of spots to explore. A few of them are:

• Cemex Quarry in Fairborn: Located near Dayton, this quarry is a hotspot for calcite crystals, especially the clear and amber varieties. You might need permission to visit, but it’s worth the effort.
• Marion Quarry in Marion County: Known for its striking drusy calcite and well-formed crystal clusters, this site is a favorite among collectors.
• Pugh Quarry near Custar: Situated in Wood County, this quarry is famous for its beautifully formed calcite crystals, often found in striking golden and amber hues.

Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining in Ohio

We’ve selected some of our all-time favorite places to dig for gems. These are excellent options that are available for adults with more experience and young children who are just getting started.

Flint Ridge Ancient Quarries and Nature Preserve

15300 Flint Ridge Road, Glenford, OH, USA

Flint Ridge Ancient Quarries and Nature Preserve is a unique geological and archaeological site in eastern Licking County. The site includes more than 400 acres of wooded hillsides, ravines, and streams that contain evidence of ancient quarrying activities by the Hopewell Indians. The flint from these quarries was used to make tools and weapons by Native Americans from 200 BC to 500 AD.

Today, you can explore the nature preserve, which contains numerous trails for gem hunting and wildlife. Gem hunters can also view the remains of ancient quarries as well as interpretive signs which explain the history and significance of Flint Ridge.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Flint Ridge Ancient Quarries and Nature Preserve

This area is among the first spots that come to mind for those looking for gemstones. The following gems are known to be abundant here:

• Agate
• Amethyst
• Carnelian
• Chalcedony
• Flint
• Jasper
• Smoky Quartz
• Quartz

The Best Time To Visit Flint Ridge Ancient Quarries And Nature Preserve

The preserve’s trails are open year-round so that you can explore the area even during winter. However, checking in with the preserve is best to ensure that any trails or other areas of interest are open before planning a visit.

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!

Nethers Farm

3680 Flint Ridge Rd, Hopewell, OH 43746, United States

Nethers Farm is located in the heart of our state and offers a special mining experience for all ages. Gem hunters can pan for gems using the sluice, search for gems in the creek bed, or explore the farm’s many trails and gardens.

The farm also has a rock shop that sells jewelry made from the gems found on-site. Nethers Farm is a great place to learn about geology and have fun simultaneously!

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Nethers Farm

It is known that this spot is rich in the following gems:

• Chalcedony
• Flint
• Quartz

The Best Time To Visit Nethers Farm

The best time to visit Nethers Farm is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the farm is open to gem miners and offers a variety of activities.

Caesar’s Creek State Park

8570 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068, United States

Caesar’s Creek State Park is home to some of the best gem hunting opportunities in the state. Gem hunters can sift through dirt and gravel to uncover semi-precious stones. You can purchase a bag of gem mix from the park office or bring your own from home. Once you have your bag of gems, you can search for stones using screens or sluices provided by the park staff. The gemstones found here can then be taken home or sold at the park store.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Caesar’s Creek State Park

These gems are common in this location:

• Calcite
• Pyrite

The Best Time To Visit Caesar’s Creek State Park

The park typically opens in mid-May and closes in late October, so the best time to visit is from May to October. It offers a variety of activities, including digging for gems, fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, and more. Gem hunting is popular at the park during the summer when the weather is warm and sunny.

Hocking Hills Gem Mine And Gold Rush – Great for kids

29255 Pattor Rd, Logan, OH 43138, United States

Hocking Hills Gem Mine and Gold Rush is an outdoor adventure in Logan. It is a remarkable experience that combines the fun of panning for gems, minerals, and fossils with the excitement of a real gold rush. You can search for valuable gems, minerals, and fossils in the mine’s sluice boxes or take part in a simulated gold rush using authentic tools and supplies.

While exploring, the mine gave us a chance to learn about geology, mineralogy, and prospecting. We had fun gem hunting while learning about the science behind gemstones and gold mining.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Hocking Hills Gem Mine And Gold Rush

This spot is excellent for introducing kids to several types of gemstones, but it is particularly well-known for the following:

• Amethyst
• Calcite
• Fluorite
• Rose Quartz

The Best Time To Visit Hocking Hills Gem Mine And Gold Rush

The weather is warmer, and the days are longer in the summer months of June to September, allowing more time to explore the area. The mine is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and gem hunters can mine for gems or pan for gold in the creek that runs through the property.

Sandy Creek Mining Co. – Great for kids

22 S Poplar St, Fostoria, OH 44830, United States

Sandy Creek Mining Company is a gemstone mining and retail operation based in the heart of Amish Country. Founded in 2013, Sandy Creek Mining Company has been offering family-friendly gemstone mining experiences to people across the state. It offers a variety of pay-to-mine packages that include all of the necessary equipment to find gems and minerals.

They also made our experience unforgettable by offering us to shop through their wide selection of finished jewelry and polished stones. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just a fun day away from home, Sandy Creek Mining Company will surely provide you with an unforgettable experience!

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Sandy Creek Mining Co.

This location is home to fine gems and minerals. Here, the following gemstone types are most frequently encountered by kids:

• Agate
• Amethyst
• Calcite
• Citrine
• Fluorite
• Garnet
• Pyrite
• Quartz
• Rhodochrosite
• Tourmaline

The Best Time To Visit Sandy Creek Mining Co.

Sandy Creek Mining Co. operates from May through September and offers to pan for gold, search for gemstones, and offer educational programs about area history and prospecting.

Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in Ohio

If you want to do real gem mining in the Buckeye State after you’ve had a chance to explore the areas we previosuly highlighted, there are still tons of other fantastic locations you may go to. The folks with a lot of expertise in mining gems and who wish to hunt for more active mines should go to these following locations.

• Blue Limestone Park – Pyrite
• Green Island – Celestite
• Maple Grove Quarry – Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Fluorite, Marcasite, Pyrite
• Medusa Quarry – Calcite, Marcasite
• Pugh Quarry – Calcite, Dolomite, Fluorite, Marcasite, Pyrite, Sphalerite
• Serpent Mound – Quartz

The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in Ohio

More enjoyable family-friendly public gem mining venues are included below for parents who want to introduce their kids to the world of gemstone hunting.

• Cici’s Gem Mine – Cross Creek Camping Resort, 3190 S Old State Rd, Delaware, OH 43015, United States
• Fox’s High Rock Farm – 14977 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138, United States
• Island Mining Co – 115-IM Division Street, Kelleys Island, OH 43438, United States
• Ohio Caverns – 2210 OH-245 E, West Liberty, OH 43357, United States
• Seneca Mining Company at Seneca Caverns – 15248 E Township Rd 178, Bellevue, OH 44811, United States
• Paradise Park Miniature Golf and Gem Mining – 2777 Marion-Waldo Rd, Marion, OH 43302, United States
• Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center – 979 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, United States

Ohio Gem Mining Laws And Regulations

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) regulates gem hunting within the state. Gem miners must obtain a free permit from ODNR to dig for gems on public lands. The permit must be displayed at all times while mining and must be renewed annually.

When searching for gems on public lands, you may only use hand tools such as shovels, picks, and screens. Gem hunters are not allowed to use explosives or machinery of any kind. In addition, you are prohibited from digging deep trenches or disturbing vegetation or wildlife habitats.

Gem hunters may keep any gemstones found on public land as long as they follow the regulations set by ODNR regarding collection limits and sizes of specimens found.

For more details about Ohio’s gem mining laws and regulations, use the above link to visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).

Additional places to mine for gems in nearby states

See our recommended gem mining locations for the neighboring states below if you’re thinking about going there and if you’ve already been to every place we’ve mentioned above:

• Gem mining in Indiana
• Gem mining in Kentucky
• Gem mining in Michigan
• Gem mining in Pennsylvania
• Gem mining in West Virginia

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