The state of Utah is known for its awe-inspiring natural beauty, and when it comes to gem hunting, it is no different. Its stunning red cliffs, rugged mountains, and rolling hills offer some of the country’s best opportunities for finding gems. With ample access to public land, experienced guides, and a wide variety of gems, this state is a premier destination for gem hunting,

You can find various gems from the historic Topaz Mountains to the mines of Park City. Whether you’re a seasoned gem hunter or a beginner, the state has some of the best locations for digging gems. So get ready to explore the wild west and discover what treasures the Beehive State has to offer!

The best places to mine gems in Utah are along hillsides, creeks, and rivers, loose in quarries, road cuts, and pay-to-dig mines. We will cover some especially great options, like Horn Silver Mine, Topaz Dome Quarry, and Bingham Canyon, in more detail below.

The Gemstones Found In Utah You Can Find

If you’re interested in silver prospecting, Get the inside track on finding Silver in Utah with our guide!

Amethyst

Amethyst is a stunning purple variety of quartz. It forms in geodes and can be found in a variety of shades, from pale lavender to deep, vibrant purple.

The amethyst crystals in Utah are some of the most well-known in the U.S., and if you’re into gem hunting or just want to find something unique, this stone is a great place to start.

What It Is and the Types of It Found in the State

Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz, made up of silicon dioxide and iron. The iron impurities give amethyst its signature purple hue. In Utah, the amethyst you’ll find is often in the form of geodes, which are hollow rocks lined with crystals.

The crystals can vary in color, ranging from light lilac to a deep violet. Some areas in Utah even have amethyst crystals that are larger and more vibrant than others, making them especially attractive for collectors.

Why It’s Valuable

Amethyst has been highly valued for centuries. Its vibrant color and the fact that it’s a quartz make it a relatively affordable gem compared to rarer stones, but it’s still prized in the jewelry market.

Amethyst is also believed to have healing properties, such as reducing stress and enhancing spiritual awareness, which only adds to its appeal.

Great Places to Find It Here

While Utah isn’t necessarily famous for amethyst, there are still several places where you might get lucky and discover some beautiful specimens.

• Topaz Mountain: This spot is well-known for its treasure trove of gems and minerals, including amethyst. While it’s most famous for topaz, visitors can sometimes find small, purple amethyst crystals in the area as well. Be sure to check out the quartz pockets in the region for a chance to unearth these beauties.
• Red Canyon: Located in the western part of the state, this area is famous for its colorful landscapes, and if you’re lucky, you can spot some amethyst crystals along the way. Red Canyon is often overlooked, making it a good spot to explore without large crowds.
• Little Sahara Recreation Area: Although it’s better known for sand dunes, Little Sahara also has some great spots to search for amethyst. The surrounding areas are home to various quartz veins, and on rare occasions, you may find some hidden amethyst crystals. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the rocky regions!

Explore everything to know about Amethyst in Utah with our guide – packed with must-know tips.

Red Beryl

Red beryl, also known as bixbite, is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, and Utah is home to the only significant deposits of this remarkable mineral.

If you love hunting for rare gemstones, Utah is the best place to search for red beryl. Whether you’re a seasoned rockhound or just starting, knowing where to look can increase your chances of finding this elusive gem.

What It Is and the Types of It Found in the State

Red beryl is a rare variety of beryl colored by manganese. It forms in specific volcanic conditions, making it far less common than other beryl varieties like emerald and aquamarine. In Utah, red beryl is found primarily in the Wah Wah Mountains, where its rich red color can range from bright pinkish-red to deep crimson.

Unlike other types of beryl, which can be found in multiple locations worldwide, gem-grade red beryl has only been confirmed in a handful of places. Utah produces the finest crystals.

Why It’s Valuable

Red beryl’s value comes from its extreme rarity and vibrant color. It’ i’s estimated to be thousands of times rarer than diamonds, making fine specimens highly prized among gem collectors. Stones over one carat are also exceptionally uncommon.

Beyond its beauty, red beryl is also significant to mineralogists because of its unique formation conditions.Beyond its beauty, red beryl is also significant to mineralogists because of its unique formation conditions.

Great Places to Find It Here

Finding red beryl in Utah requires patience and the right location. While most known deposits are on private land or in mining claims, there are still places where rockhounds can try their luck. Here are a few spots worth exploring:

• Wah Wah Mountains: The best-known source of red beryl, this rugged mountain range has produced some of the finest specimens ever found. The Ruby-Violet claim is the most famous site, though access is limited to mining operations.
• Thomas Range: Known for topaz, this area also contains occasional red beryl discoveries. While much less abundant here, the possibility of finding a rare crystal makes it an exciting place to search.
• Beaver County: Some lesser-known locations in Beaver County have yielded small red beryl crystals, though they are not as common as in the Wah Wah Mountains. Exploring exposed rhyolite formations may lead to interesting finds.

Opal

Utah is home to some of the most beautiful and rare opal specimens in the country. Whether you’re a seasoned rockhound or just starting out, the state offers a unique opportunity to discover these colorful gems.

Opal found in Utah can vary in appearance, and it’s a prized find for collectors, thanks to its incredible range of hues and the way it plays with light. Looking for Opal in Utah? We’ve mapped out the best spots for you in our guide!

What It Is and the Types of It Found in the State

Opal is a mineraloid composed of hydrated silicon dioxide, and it’s known for its stunning color play, where different hues appear depending on the angle of the light.

In Utah, you can find a variety of opal types, including precious opal, fire opal, and common opal.

Why It’s Valuable

Opal’s value comes from its rare and stunning color displays, which make it highly desirable in the jewelry market. The more vibrant the play of colors in the opal, the more valuable it is. Utah’s opals, particularly the precious and fire varieties, are highly prized for their beautiful color shifts and are sought after by collectors and jewelers alike.

The opal found in Utah is also notable because it forms in unique, volcanic environments, making it an exciting find for anyone exploring the state’s geology.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah’s unique geology, including its volcanic history, makes it an ideal location for finding opals. If you’re looking to search for opals, here are a few spots you should check out:

• Opal Hill (near Dugway): This area is one of the most famous opal-producing regions in Utah. Opal Hill is known for its precious opal, and many rockhounds have successfully found stunning specimens here.
• The Wah Wah Mountains: Located in western Utah, the Wah Wah Mountains are home to some of the state’s finest fire opals. The area also offers beautiful scenery and a quiet environment for rockhounding.
• Spencer Opal Mine: If you’re looking for a more structured rockhounding experience, the Spencer Opal Mine in southern Utah offers the chance to dig for opals. The mine produces high-quality precious opals, and it’s a fun spot for both beginners and experienced collectors.

Topaz

Utah is home to some of the most beautiful and sought-after topaz crystals, making it a must-visit spot for rockhounds and collectors alike. Known for its stunning color variety and impressive crystal formations, topaz in Utah is an exciting find.

What It Is and the Types of It Found in the State

Topaz is a silicate mineral that comes in a wide range of colors, from clear and colorless to shades of yellow, blue, and even pink. The most common variety of topaz found in Utah is the golden-yellow type, but blue and pink topaz can also be found, making it an even more exciting gem to search for.

In Utah, you’ll most often find topaz in its natural crystal form, with well-formed, sharp edges and a distinct prismatic shape. The golden-yellow topaz found in the state is particularly prized due to its vibrant color and clarity.

Why It’s Valuable

Topaz is valuable not only for its striking appearance but also for its relative rarity, especially in its large, well-formed crystals. Topaz is used in fine jewelry, and the larger, more flawless stones can fetch a high price.

Additionally, topaz is considered a gemstone with healing properties, believed to bring energy and happiness to its owner, which adds to its appeal. If you’re lucky enough to find a beautiful specimen in Utah, you could have a stunning gem for your collection or jewelry piece.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah is a fantastic place to hunt for topaz, with many locations throughout the state where you can try your luck. Here are some of the best places to search for topaz:

• Topaz Mountain: Located near the town of Delta, Topaz Mountain is one of the most well-known spots in Utah for finding topaz. The area is famous for its golden-yellow topaz crystals, and rockhounds from all over the world visit to search for these stunning gems. The terrain can be rugged, but the hunt is worth it.
• Fishlake National Forest: This large national forest in central Utah is home to many hidden treasures, including topaz. While not as widely known as Topaz Mountain, Fishlake offers a more remote and quiet experience for those looking for a peaceful spot to search for topaz crystals.
• Little Sahara Recreation Area: Known more for its sand dunes and off-roading, Little Sahara is also a great place to find topaz. The area’s dry, rocky terrain is perfect for rockhounds to explore and search for topaz and other minerals.

Obsidian

Utah is home to many fascinating geological treasures, and one of the most striking and valuable is obsidian. Known for its glass-like appearance and sharp edges, obsidian is a type of volcanic glass that forms when lava cools rapidly.

The state is filled with areas where you can find this beautiful and useful material, whether you’re a collector or just curious about the state’s rich volcanic history. Get the inside track on finding Obsidian in Utah with our guide!

What It Is and the Types of Obsidian Found in the State

Obsidian is a naturally occurring volcanic glass that forms when lava cools so quickly that crystals don’t have time to grow. It’s usually black, but it can also come in a range of colors like brown, red, or even green, depending on the mineral content.

In Utah, the most common type of obsidian is black, but you can also find unique varieties like snowflake obsidian, which features white, cloudy patches, and rainbow obsidian, which displays iridescent colors when viewed from different angles.

Why It’s Valuable

Obsidian has been valued for thousands of years, primarily because of its ability to be shaped into sharp, durable tools and weapons. It was used by ancient peoples to make arrowheads, knives, and scrapers.

Today, obsidian is still sought after by collectors and jewelers because of its striking appearance and unique properties. While it’s no longer used for tools, obsidian is still prized for its use in decorative items like jewelry and sculptures.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah has some of the best locations for finding obsidian, especially in areas with past volcanic activity. Here are a few spots where you can try your luck and see some stunning obsidian for yourself:

• Black Rock Desert: Located in the west-central part of Utah, the Black Rock Desert is one of the best-known places to find obsidian. The area is littered with pieces of this shiny volcanic glass, and it’s a popular spot for rockhounds looking to score some high-quality specimens.
• Fishlake National Forest: This forest, located in south-central Utah, is another prime location for finding obsidian. The area has a history of volcanic activity, which has left behind large deposits of obsidian. You can find various types of obsidian here, including some of the rarer colors and patterns.
• Tushar Mountains: If you’re exploring the Tushar Mountains in southern Utah, you’re in for a treat. The volcanic rock formations in this area include abundant obsidian deposits. The mountains offer a beautiful, remote setting for searching for this unique rock, and you might even stumble upon some large, well-formed pieces.

Turquoise

Turquoise is a beautiful, blue-green gemstone that’s been prized for thousands of years. It forms in arid regions, like the ones we have here in Utah, where copper-rich water seeps into the earth and mixes with other minerals to create this stunning stone.

In Utah, you can find different types of turquoise, ranging from bright blue to more greenish hues. The most popular types found here are known for their distinctive colors and matrix patterns, which are the natural lines or veins that run through the stone.

Why it’s Valuable

Turquoise is valuable for several reasons. First, its vibrant color makes it highly desirable in the jewelry market, especially in Southwestern designs. Some of the most famous turquoise, like the variety found in the Sleeping Beauty mines, can be worth a lot due to its quality and rarity.

Not only is it used in jewelry, but it’s also collected by rockhounds who enjoy hunting for the stone in its natural form. The demand for turquoise, combined with Utah’s rich deposits, makes it a great find for anyone who’s into rocks and gems.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah is known for having some of the richest turquoise deposits in the country, and there are several areas where you can try your luck in finding it. Whether you’re out on a hike or exploring remote desert regions, there’s no shortage of places to look. Here are a few spots to check out:

• The San Rafael Swell: This area is a hotspot for finding turquoise, especially around the remote parts of the swell. The region is known for its rugged terrain and can be a bit tricky to navigate, but that’s part of the adventure. The turquoise here is often beautifully colored and highly collectible.
• The Dugway Geode Beds: Located in the western part of Utah, the Dugway Geode Beds are not only famous for geodes but also for turquoise. You can often find turquoise among the rocks here, making it a great spot for rockhounds looking for this valuable gem.
• Eagle Mountain: Located in the western part of Utah, Eagle Mountain is another known area where turquoise is found. The location is particularly rich in turquoise-bearing rocks, and you can often spot small veins or nuggets of turquoise while hiking in the area. It’s an exciting place for anyone interested in gem hunting.

Jasper

Jasper is a type of chalcedony, a mineral that belongs to the quartz family. It’s known for its beautiful array of colors and patterns, ranging from reds, yellows, and greens to browns and even purples. The color and pattern variations make each piece of jasper unique.

In Utah, there are several types of jasper, including picture jasper, which features intricate, landscape-like patterns, and polychrome jasper, known for its vibrant and multi-colored hues. Interested? Get all the info you need on finding Jasper in Utah in our guide!

Why It’s Valuable

Jasper is considered valuable for both its aesthetic appeal and its use in jewelry and carving. The colorful patterns and the variety of types make it a sought-after gemstone for both amateur rockhounds and professional jewelers.

Many people appreciate jasper because of its durability, making it perfect for crafting cabochons, beads, or even ornamental pieces. It’s also a popular choice among collectors looking for one-of-a-kind specimens to add to their collections.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah’s diverse landscapes offer plenty of opportunities to hunt for jasper. Whether you’re looking for a beautiful addition to your rock collection or hoping to strike it lucky and find a particularly stunning piece, these spots are worth checking out:

• The West Desert: The rugged desert areas in western Utah are rich in jasper deposits, particularly picture jasper. The terrain can be harsh, but it’s known for producing some of the most beautiful and intricate patterns in jasper, making it a top destination for rockhounds.
• The Uinta Mountains: Located in northeastern Utah, the Uinta Mountains are home to a wide variety of jaspers, including polychrome jasper. The rugged terrain and remote areas make it a great spot for collectors who are looking for something unique and willing to hike to find it.
• Red Rock Canyon: Situated in southern Utah, this area is a gem-hunter’s dream, known for its rich deposits of jasper, including picture jasper and vibrant reds and yellows. The canyon’s stunning beauty also makes it a perfect place to enjoy nature while searching for some incredible specimens.

Garnet

Garnet is a beautiful gemstone known for its deep red color, though it can also be found in other colors like green, yellow, and orange. In Utah, the most common type of garnet you’ll come across is the almandine variety, which is rich in red hues.

Other types, like pyrope and spessartine, can also be found in certain areas of the state. Since these stones form in metamorphic rocks, Utah’s geological landscape is a prime location to find them.

Why It’s Valuable

Garnet is not only visually striking but also quite valuable due to its rarity and use in various industries. While it’s best known as a gemstone for jewelry, garnet is also used in industrial applications like abrasives and filtration.

The rich red varieties of garnet, in particular, are highly sought after for their stunning color and durability, making them a desirable find for rockhounds and collectors alike.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah has a number of fantastic spots for finding garnet, especially in areas with a history of volcanic activity and metamorphic rock formations. Here are a few of the best places to check out:

• The Wasatch Mountains: These mountains, running through central Utah, are home to a variety of garnet deposits, especially in metamorphic rock formations. You’ll find garnet in areas where older rocks have undergone heat and pressure, which is perfect for collectors.
• The Uinta Mountains: Located in northeastern Utah, this range is a known hotspot for finding garnet, particularly almandine garnet. You can look for garnets in the stream beds or explore the area around the mountain’s metamorphic rocks.
• The Stansbury Mountains: Found in the western part of Utah, this area offers a chance to find both garnet and other precious stones. The combination of volcanic history and exposure to weathering has left behind garnet deposits that are often found in the area’s stream beds and rocky outcrops.

Malachite

Malachite is a striking green mineral that forms in copper-rich areas. It often has vibrant, swirling patterns that make it easy to identify, ranging from deep forest green to bright, almost neon green.

In Utah, malachite is commonly found alongside other copper minerals like azurite. When these minerals occur together, they create beautiful pieces that are in high demand among collectors. This mineral is typically found in the oxidation zones of copper deposits and is most abundant in places where copper mining has occurred.

Why It’s Valuable

Malachite is valuable for several reasons. Its rich green color and intricate patterns make it a favorite in jewelry, especially for those who appreciate unique, earthy designs. It’s also used in carvings and decorative pieces.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, malachite has a historical significance, as it’s been used for centuries for ornamental purposes and even as a pigment in ancient art. Because it’s not found everywhere, collectors and rockhounds in Utah find it especially exciting to discover.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah is known for its rich mining history, especially with copper, and malachite is often found in areas where copper mining took place. Here are a few of the best spots to look for malachite:

• The Bingham Canyon Mine: Located just southwest of Salt Lake City, this open-pit copper mine is one of the largest in the world. Malachite is often found here, particularly in the oxidized zones around the mine. Keep an eye out for green streaks on rocks when you explore nearby areas.
• The Silver King Mine: Located in the Oquirrh Mountains, this mine has been a source of copper, silver, and other minerals. Malachite can sometimes be found in the tailings or on the surface of the mine, where copper-bearing rocks have weathered over time.
• The San Juan Mountains: In southeastern Utah, this area is home to a lot of mineral-rich deposits, including malachite. The region has historically been known for copper mining, and you can find malachite in the area’s outcrops and streams.

Geodes

Geodes are spherical or rounded rocks that form when mineral-rich solutions fill cavities inside a rock. Over time, the minerals crystallize inside, creating stunning interior structures that can be filled with quartz, calcite, or even amethyst.

In Utah, geodes are typically found in volcanic rock formations, and they often contain beautiful crystals like quartz or calcite, but sometimes, you can even find ones with rare minerals inside.

There are also several types of geodes found in Utah, including those filled with clear quartz, purple amethyst, and even some with vibrant chalcedony crystals. Looking for the inside scoop? Our guide to finding Geodes in Utah has got you covered!

Why It’s Valuable

Geodes are valuable for collectors because of the surprise inside each one. The exterior of a geode is often plain and unassuming, but cracking it open reveals stunning and unique crystal formations that make each one special.

The crystals inside, such as quartz and amethyst, are valued for their beauty and are commonly used in jewelry and decorations.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah is a great state for geode hunting, with many places where you can find these hidden gems. Here are a few spots to try:

• The Clear Creek Canyon: This location, in the southern part of Utah, is known for its wide variety of minerals, including geodes. The canyon has a mix of volcanic and sedimentary rocks, making it a perfect place for finding geodes that contain quartz and calcite crystals.
• The Great Salt Lake Desert: This area is known for its volcanic rocks, and geodes can often be found in the desert’s dry, cracked earth. The crystals inside these geodes are usually quartz or calcite, and they can be quite beautiful.
• The Vernal Area: Located in northeastern Utah, the Vernal region is famous for its geodes, many of which contain beautiful quartz crystals. Head towards the Book Cliffs or the Red Fleet State Park, where geodes can sometimes be found along the ground or embedded in the rocky layers.

Agate

Agate is a type of chalcedony, which is a form of quartz that forms in a variety of colors and patterns. It’s a hard, durable gemstone that can be translucent or opaque, and it’s often known for its beautiful banded patterns in a variety of colors like red, yellow, brown, and blue.

In Utah, you can find several types of agate, including moss agate, fire agate, and landscape agate. These stones are formed when minerals like iron or copper infiltrate cavities in rocks and crystallize over time, creating the unique, eye-catching designs agates are known for. If you’re excited to discover Agate in Utah, our guide will tell you how!

Why It’s Valuable

Agates are prized by collectors and jewelry makers for their stunning appearance and the fact that each stone is unique. Their vivid colors, unique patterns, and translucency make them popular for crafting and decorative purposes.

Some varieties, like fire agate, have iridescent qualities that make them especially valuable. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, agates are also durable and easy to polish, which makes them perfect for jewelry, cabochons, and other crafted items.

Great Places to Find It Here

Utah is a great state for finding agate, with many areas known for their rich deposits. Whether you’re a seasoned rockhound or a beginner, here are a few places to check out:

• The Snake Valley Area: If you’re looking for a mix of agates and other stones, head to the area near the Nevada border, where agates can be found along with jasper, opal, and more. The rocks here are exposed along the valley floor, making it easier to find agates with some careful searching.
• The Utah-Arizona Border: Near the border, you can explore areas like the Kaibab Plateau, where agates are found in abundance. Look along stream beds or in the eroded volcanic rock formations for hidden treasures. The agates here are often vibrant and feature the characteristic banding that collectors love.
• The Vernal Area: Located in northeastern Utah, the region around Vernal is rich with agate deposits. Many of the agates here are found along the banks of dry riverbeds, with varieties ranging from banded agates to the more unique fire agates with a fiery, iridescent sheen.

Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining in Utah

We know these are the best places to mine for gems in the state. To learn more about hunting for gemstones and to see them for yourself, it would be best to go to these fantastic places. We also suggested places where kids can learn about gem hunting and try it out.

Horn Silver Mine

3115 East Lion Lane Suite 160, Holladay, Utah 84121

Horn Silver Mine Gem Mining is a unique gem mining experience that allows gem hunters to dig for gems at an abandoned mine. The mine was once one of the most productive silver mines and operated from 1892 to 1916. You can experience a unique adventure as they explore the old tunnels, uncover hidden gems, and discover the history of this historic site. You may find beautiful gems they can take home as souvenirs or keep as collector’s items.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Horn Silver Mine

• Azurite
• Barite
• Chrysocolla
• Gypsum
• Kaolinite
• Malachite
• Opal
• Pyrite
• Sphalerite
• Wulfenite
• Zircon

The Best Time To Visit Horn Silver Mine

The best time to visit this mine is from April through October. This is when there are more hours of daylight for exploring the mine. Those looking to avoid summer crowds may visit during the spring and fall when there is less competition for parking spots.

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!

Topaz Dome Quarry

Weis Hwy, Utah, United States

Topaz Dome Quarry is a unique geological formation. The quarry is composed of a large, dome-shaped hill made of colorful, spherically shaped stones. The stones, primarily composed of the mineral topaz, are believed to have been formed millions of years ago when a volcanic eruption occurred, and lava flowed over the area.

The quarry has been used as a source of gemstones since the late 19th century, with miners extracting topaz for jewelry and other decorative uses. It’s also among the best sites to find crystals in Utah.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Topaz Dome Quarry

• Beryl
• Calcite
• Carnelian
• Chalcedony
• Fluorite
• Garnet
• Hematite
• Quartz
• Topaz

The Best Time To Visit Topaz Dome Quarry

The best time to visit Topaz Dome Quarry is spring and summer. During these times, you can enjoy milder temperatures and better visibility in the quarry.

Bingham Canyon

Salt Lake County, Utah 84006, USA

Bingham Canyon is an open-pit copper mine located in the Oquirrh Mountains, about 25 miles southwest of Salt Lake City. The mine is also known as the Kennecott Copper Mine and has been in operation since 1906 and has produced more copper than any other mine in history. Today, gem miners at Bingham Canyon can hunt for gems and minerals while enjoying breathtaking views of the state’s stunning landscapes.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Bingham Canyon

• Actinolite
• Barite
• Calcite
• Garnet
• Rutile

The Best Time To Visit Bingham Canyon

The best time to visit Bingham Canyon is spring and fall when the temperatures are mild. You’ll have plenty of time to explore and take in all the sights. The summer can be pretty hot, so if you’re looking for a more comfortable visit, plan your trip during the cooler months.

Zion Utah Jellystone Park – Great for kids

505 Sand Hollow Rd, Hurricane, UT 84737, United States

Gem mining is one of the most exciting and unique activities in Zion Utah Jellystone Park. This activity allows you to search for precious gems and minerals in the park using various tools and techniques. The gem mining experience is an excellent way to get outside and explore the park’s stunning scenery while learning about geology and mineralogy.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Zion Utah Jellystone Park

• Agate
• Amethyst
• Jasper
• Quartz

The Best Time To Visit Zion Utah Jellystone Park

The park is open year-round, but the summer months of June to August offer the best temperatures and activities.

Topaz Mountain Adventures – Great for kids

Topaz Valley, Wendover, UT 84083, United States

Topaz Mountain Adventures is a gem mining company in Utah that offers individuals and groups the opportunity to experience the thrill of gem hunting. The company provides all the necessary tools, including shovels, buckets, and sieves, for customers to use in their search for gems. You can also purchase bags of pre-mined materials that are guaranteed to contain at least one gem.

Topaz Mountain Adventures also offers guided tours of the area and educational programs about geology and mining techniques.

Types Of Gemstones Found At Topaz Mountain Adventures

• Amethyst
• Garnet
• Quartz
• Topaz

The Best Time To Visit Topaz Mountain Adventures

The best time to visit Topaz Mountain Adventures is in the summer months of June, July, and August. There is usually less rain during these months, so you won’t have to worry about your gem mining activities being disrupted by inclement weather.

Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in Utah

If you’re still looking for other options after trying out our list above, there are many more fantastic locations in the state you can visit to find gems. Here are some additional choices for real gem mining geared toward people searching for more active mines and unexplored areas.

• Big Cottonwood Canyon – Actinolite, Barite, Cerussite, Malachite, Rhodochrosite, Sphalerite
• Bullion Canyon – Azurite, Barite, Cerussite, Fluorite, Malachite, Pyrite, Quartz, Selenite, Sphalerite
• Circle Cliffs – Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper
• Dutch Mountain – Azurite, Cerussite, Fluorite, Malachite
• East Tintic Mountains – Albite, Bornite, Calcite, Chalcocite, Cuprite, Rutile, 
• Gold Hill Mine – Azurite, Cerussite, Chlorite, Chrysocolla, Gypsum, Malachite, Opal, Pyrite, Siderite, Sphalerite
• Granite Mountain – Albite, Amethyst, Azurite, Apatite, Barite, Chalcedony, Cinnabar, Hematite, Malachite, Pyrite
• Grouse Creek Mountains – Epidote, Stolzite, Scheelite
• Little Bear River – Anglesite, Azurite, Cerussite, Malachite
• Lucky Strike Mine – Marcasite, Pyrite, Sphalerite
• Miner’s Basin – Azurite, Calcite, Chalcedony, Chrysocolla, Chalcopyrite, Fluorite, Hematite, Malachite, Quartz
• Moses Rock and Comb Ridge – Corundum, Garnet, Rutile, Spinel
• Park City Mining District – Azurite, Barite, Calcite, Cerussite, Epidote, Garnet, Malachite, Pyrite, Quartz, Sphalerite
• Pilot Range –  Azurite, Barite, Cerussite, Chrysocolla, Hematite, Malachite, Pyrite, Sphalerite, Variscite, Wulfenite
• Temple Mountain – Dolomite, Pyrite
• The Needles – Barite, Calcite, Rhodocrosite
• Silver Island Mountains – Azurite, Barite, Cerussite, Malachite, Pyrite
• Stansbury Mountains – Cerussite, Pyrite
• Swan Creek – Azurite, Barite, Cerussite, Wulfenite
• Vipont Mine – Azurite, Cerussite, Copper, Cuprite, Malachite, Pyrite, Quartz, Realgar, Rhodochrosite, Sphalerite

If you’re confusing some of the more common gems among each other, we’ve put together a few guides to help you tell specific gems apart:

• Morganite vs Moissanite

The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in Utah

Although there aren’t many public gem mining sites for kids in the state, you may take your kids to the following locations where they can learn and explore more about gem hunting.

• Park City Mountain Resort – 1345 Lowell Avenue, Park City, UT 84060, United States

Utah Gem Mining Laws And Regulations

Utah state recreational gem hunting regulations are designed to protect the environment and ensure safety while people search for precious gems. All recreational gem hunting must be done on public land administered by the state’s Bureau of Land Management. A permit is required to access the land, and state and federal laws and regulations must conduct all activities. Prospecting equipment such as metal detectors, shovels, picks, and sieves may be used, but digging into bedrock is not allowed. Collected gems must be kept in their natural state, meaning they cannot be polished, cut, or altered before being taken offsite.

Additional Places To Mine For Gems In Nearby States

If you’ve already tried all of our recommendations above or are planning a trip out of the state you should check out our guides for neighboring states:

• Gem Mining in Arizona
• Gem Mining in Colorado
• Gem Mining in Idaho
• Gem Mining in Nevada
• Gem Mining in New Mexico
• Gem Mining in Wyoming

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