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 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 Utah You Can Mine
Remarkably, Utah is home to a variety of precious gemstones. We have put together a series of guides to assist people in locating gem mines near them, with the understanding that access to these resources may vary. Gem hunters can discover rare and more common gems with the correct information and a bit of luck.
Rare gemstones found in UTAH
- Azurite
- Jasper
- Malachite
- Peridot
- Red Beryl
- Topaz
- Wulfenite
More common gemstones found here
- Agate
- Anglesite
- Anhydrite
- Apatite
- Aragonite
- Barite
- Bornite
- Cerussite
- Chabazite
- Chrysocolla
- Cuprite
- Diopside
- Epidote
- Garnet
- Gypsum
- Hematite
- Kyanite
- Monazite
- Morganite
- Obsidian
- Onyx
- Opal
- Orthoclase
- Pyrite
- Quartz
- Realgar
- Rhodochrosite
- Scheelite
- Sphalerite
- Sphene
- Spinel
- Sulfur
- Stolzite
- Variscite
- Vesuvianite
- Zircon
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.
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
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.
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 and kit 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
Southwest Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Southwestern 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.
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:
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!
