In our beautiful state of Kentucky you can find a wide variety of gemstones and minerals. Our state boasts a lot of mines and bodies of water that are ideal for a fun, family-friendly gem mining adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned gem hunter or a beginner, you don’t have to worry because we’re sure that you’ll discover the perfect place for you!
This article lists the top Kentucky locations we’ve visited to dig for gems, along with advice on how to maximize your efforts. These are, in our opinion, the best places to learn about gem hunting because there are many opportunities available to everyone.
Our state’s mines, creeks, rivers, mountains, and parks are the best areas to look for gemstones. Detailed descriptions of the major locations we love, including Hickory Cane Mine, Halls Gap, Columbia Mine, Little Big Gem Mine And Rock Shop, and Cold River Mining Company, are provided below.
- 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 Kentucky You Can Mine
Kentucky is undoubtedly filled with a wealth of undiscovered gemstones. We’ll share some of the best locations that we suggest you try for an unforgettable gem hunting adventure! We’ve also created several guides to assist you in finding gem mines near you, no matter where you are. You’ll see how rewarding hunting for gems can be with the correct knowledge and a little luck!
Rare gemstones found in Kentucky
- Agate
- Fluorite
- Freshwater pearls
- Quartz
More common gemstones found here
- Amethyst
- Anglesite
- Apatite
- Barite
- Calcite
- Cerussite
- Chalcedony
- Diopside
- Enstatite
- Feldspar
- Garnet
- Hematite
- Jasper
- Malachite
- Onyx
- Pyrite
- Serpentine
- Smithsonite
- Sphalerite
Our Favorite Places For Gem Mining in Kentucky
We’re going to give you our favorites first! When it comes to getting your hands dirty and finding gems these are the spots to try first. You can also check out the best options to find Kentucky geodes here if that’s what you’re after.
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
Hickory Cane Mine
Marion, Crittenden Co., KY 42064, United States
Hickory Cane Mine offers gem hunters the chance to search for and collect various gems. You can participate in hands-on activities such as sluicing, panning for gems, and digging through ore piles. The gemstones found at Hickory Cane Mine are all-natural and untreated.
Here at the mine, we had fun learning more about the area’s geology and identifying different types of gems. We recommend you to try this area and see what gemstones you can find!
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Hickory Cane Mine
Excellent quality gems and minerals can be found here. The following are the most often discovered gems in this area:
- Anglesite
- Calcite
- Cerussite
- Fluorite
- Gypsum
- Hemimorphite
- Quartz
- Smithsonite
- Sphalerite
The Best Time To Visit Hickory Cane Mine
The best time to visit Hickory Cane Mine is April or May. This is when the weather is usually warmer and drier, and the ground is softer, making it easier to dig for gems.
The tools every gem hunter will need
When you're out looking for gems it's very important that you bring the right tools with you. You don't need a lot for most trips but there are a handful that are critical and will make your life a lot easier.
We get asked a lot about the equipment we use. Over the years we've found a handful of tools that we recommend to both new and experienced gem miners which we outline in great detail in our complete rockhounding tools guide. These are quality options that also happen to be relatively inexpensive.
Below are the basic tools that make your life so much easier and save you a ton of time. Check out the full guide to see everything we recommend bringing. One quick note, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases but we try very hard to only recommend gear we would use ourselves and often recommend brands you can't find on Amazon.
At a minimum you should have:
1 - Sturdy rock hammer: The Estwing Rock Pick is our standard
2 - Rugged chisels: Try Kendo' 3-piece Chisel Set
3 - Compact shovel: The Koleiya 28-inch shovel works well
4 - Rock screen pan: The Wazakura Soil Sieve Set fits the bill
5 - Eye protection: DeWalt Safety Glasses are cheap and comfortable
6 - Head protection: Malta's Safety Helmet has been our go-to
7 - Jewelers lens with at least 20x magnification: Jarlink's Jewelers Loop is perfect
The gem-finding books that we use most
There are also a few books that have been extremely helpful in the search for gems. These books have great recommendations and tips:
National Audubon Society Field Guide to Rocks and Minerals: North America
Southeast Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Southeastern Quadrant
We provide links to find these tools on Amazon but some can also be found at your local hardware stores. For more recommendations check out the link to our full tool guide above.
Halls Gap
Lincoln Co., KY 40489, United States
The area is known for its rich deposits of quartz and other minerals, making it a great spot to look for gems. You can explore the area by foot or car or even take a guided tour to learn more about the area’s geology and history. Various tools are available to help you find gems, such as a rock hammer and chisels. With patience and luck, you may find some beautiful gems to take home with you!
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Halls Gap
This location is widely recognized for its abundance of the following gems:
- Barite
- Calcite
- Celestite
- Cerussite
- Chalcedony
- Dolomite
- Malachite
- Pyrite
- Quartz
The Best Time To Visit Halls Gap
The best time to visit Halls Gap is from April to October. During this time of year, there are typically fewer gem hunters in the area and it’s easier to find gems.
Columbia Mine
Marion, Crittenden Co., KY 42064, United States
Columbia Mine is home to various gems. Gem miners can purchase buckets of rough materials from which they can find their gems. You should bring buckets and other tools for sifting through the materials.
With our experience, this mine is a great place to explore the beauty of our state’s natural resources while having fun with family and friends!
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Columbia Mine
Over the years, this mine has produced many gemstones, some of which include:
- Cerussite
- Fluorite
- Quartz
- Smithsonite
- Sphalerite
The Best Time To Visit Columbia Mine
The peak season to dig gems at Columbia Mine is usually from May to August, when the weather is warm and dry, making it easier to mine for gems.
Little Big Gem Mine And Rock Shop – Great for kids
1000 KY-524, La Grange, KY 40031, United States
Little Big Gem Mine and Rock Shop is a unique experience for gem hunters. The shop carries various gems, minerals, fossils, jewelry, and other related items. You can hunt for gemstones in the mine or purchase them from the shop. The staff here is friendly and knowledgeable about geology and will help you identify your finds.
Little Big Gem Mine is a great place to find that unique item or to learn something new about rocks and gemstones!
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Little Big Gem Mine And Rock Shop
Children can learn a lot about many gemstones found at this spot, but it is particularly known to have the following gemstones:
- Amethyst
- Aquamarine
- Citrine
- Fluorite
- Garnet
- Moonstone
- Peridot
- Quartz
The Best Time To Visit Little Big Gem Mine And Rock Shop
The best time to visit Little Big Gem Mine and Rock Shop is during the spring months of April and May.
Cold River Mining Corporation – Great for kids
7432 Carrollton Rd, Campbellsburg, KY 40011, United States
Cold River Mining Corporation is a leading provider of quality gemstone paydirt, panning kits, and educational materials for gem hunters and hobbyists. Cold River Mining specializes in providing unique and educational experiences to those interested in exploring the world of gems and minerals. Their products are designed to be both educational and fun, allowing you to learn while you enjoy the exhilarating experience of discovering gems.
The Types Of Gemstones Found At Cold River Mining Corporation
Kids have mostly found the following gemstones in this area:
- Amethyst
- Aquamarine
- Citrine
- Garnet
- Peridot
- Topaz
- Tourmaline
The Best Time To Visit Cold River Mining Corporation
The best time to visit Cold River Mining Corporation is from April through October. The temperatures during these months are mild, and the weather is generally pleasant. This is also when they give guided tours of their area and hands-on mining experience.
Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in Kentucky
In Kentucky, there are more incredible locations to hunt for priceless gemstones. If you want to do real gem mining, here are a few more fantastic places you should explore, in addition to our favorites from the list above.
- Big Four Fault – Anglesite, Cerussite, Fluorite, Quartz, Smithsonite
- Eureka Mine – Fluorite, Quartz
- Ison Creek – Enstatite, Garnet, Mica, Serpentine
- Kings Mountain – Celestite, Quartz
- Kentucky Dam Village State Park – Quartz
- Kentucky Lake – Jasper, Quartz
- Kentucky River Bend – Agate, Barite, Calcite, Fluorite, Sphalerite
- Lafayette Mine – Fluorite, Hemimorphite, Quartz
- Little Sandy River – Apatite, Garnet, Chromite, Diopside, Feldspar, Quartz
- Mississippi River Valley – Freshwater pearls
- Mount Vernon (roadcuts and stream banks) – Garnet, Jasper
- Old Jim Mine – Hemimorphite, Pyrite, Smithsonite, Sphalerite
- Tennessee River Valley – Freshwater pearls
The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in Kentucky
If you want to introduce your kids to the thrilling hobby of gem hunting, here are more of the greatest family-friendly public gem mining places that you and your kids will enjoy visiting.
- Big Mike’s Rock Shop – 566 Old Mammoth Cave Rd, Cave City, KY 42127, United States
- Carter Caves Gem Mine – 344 Caveland Dr, Olive Hill, KY 41164, United States
- Cumberland Falls Mining Company – 7351 KY-90, Corbin, KY 40701, United States
- Lost River Cave – 2818 Nashville Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101, United States
Kentucky Gem Mining Laws And Regulations
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources (KDFWR) regulates recreational gem hunting in the state. Gem hunting is allowed on any public land, including state and federal lands, provided that all applicable laws and regulations do it. The KDFWR also requires that anyone wishing to hunt for gems obtain a permit from the KDFWR.
Gem hunters must abide by all applicable laws and regulations when collecting gems. These include avoiding areas that are closed to public use or access, such as archaeological sites or areas containing endangered species; respecting private property; following all safety guidelines; refraining from removing more than a reasonable amount of material from a given area; and not disturbing wildlife or vegetation.
For more information about the state’s gem mining laws and regulations, visit the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources site we linked above.
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 Illinois
- Gem Mining in Indiana
- Gem Mining in Missouri
- Gem Mining in Ohio
- Gem Mining in Tennessee
- Gem Mining in Virginia
- Gem Mining in West Virginia
If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered please leave them in the comments below!
