Geodes are like nature’s surprise eggs, filled with sparkling crystals inside a plain-looking rock. Our state is a treasure trove for these hidden gems, with its many different landscapes that make it perfect for rock hounds.

If you’re itching to crack open your own crystal-filled wonder, you’re in the right place!

This article will show you the best spots in our state to find geodes. We’ll also share some handy tips to make your geode hunting adventure a success.

So grab your hammer and get ready to discover the beauty hiding in ordinary-looking rocks all around this state!

How Geodes From Here

Geodes form when bubbles in volcanic rocks or spaces in sedimentary rocks get filled with minerals over time.

First, water rich in minerals like quartz or calcite seeps into the hollow space. As the water evaporates, it leaves behind the minerals, which slowly build up layer by layer.

Eventually, these minerals create a crystal lining inside the geode. The outer shell stays rough, while the inside becomes a sparkling treasure.

The process can take thousands, even millions, of years, making each geode a unique and beautiful time capsule of Earth’s natural forces.

The Types Of Geodes Found in the US

There are many fascinating varieties of geodes that can be found across the United States, including in our own state. Each type is distinctly beautiful and intriguing:

Amethyst Geode

Amethyst geodes look plain on the outside, like a potato. But crack them open, and you’ll find stunning purple crystals. These crystals can be light lavender or deep purple.

The structure of crystals inside can vary widely. Some are tiny and densely packed, creating a sparkling surface. Others form large, distinct points that jut inwards.

The color range is impressive too, from pale lilac to deep royal purple. Some amethyst geodes develop unique features. “Stalactites” of amethyst might hang from the top.

In rare cases, you might find a water bubble trapped inside, a remnant from the geode’s formation millions of years ago.

Citrine Geode

Citrine geodes are eye-catching rocks with golden yellow to orange crystals inside. They sparkle when light hits them, looking like sunshine trapped in stone. The colors come from iron mixed in with the quartz.

Unlike many gemstones, citrine’s color is often evenly distributed throughout the crystal.

Most citrine on the market isn’t natural. It’s actually heat-treated amethyst. This process turns the purple amethyst into vibrant citrine. Natural citrine is rarer and often has a more subtle color.

Pyrite Geode

Ever cracked open a rock and found gold inside? Well, not real gold, but something that looks just like it. That’s a pyrite geode. Pyrite is called “fool’s gold” because it’s so shiny and golden.

Inside these geodes, pyrite forms in cool shapes. Sometimes it’s perfect cubes. Other times its clumps or even round balls called “pyrite suns”.

Pyrite has a fun history. People have been mixing it up with real gold for thousands of years. That’s how it got its nickname.

Selenite Geode

Selenite geodes stand out from the crowd. They’re white and see-through, with a glassy look. When you open one up, you’ll see crystals that look like they’re made of ice or moonlight.

Unlike harder geodes, selenite is soft. You can scratch it with your fingernail! This softness means you need to handle it carefully. But it also means selenite can be shaped into beautiful forms easily.

One cool thing about selenite is how it plays with light. Hold it up to a lamp, and you’ll see the light shine right through it. This makes selenite geodes popular for decorative lamps and light fixtures. They add a magical glow to any room.

Celestite Geode

Celestite geodes are like pieces of sky trapped in rock. Their crystals are typically a delicate blue, ranging from almost colorless to deep sky blue. In rare cases, celestite can form in other colors. Pink celestite is highly prized by collectors.

One unique feature of celestite is its perfect cleavage. This means the crystals can be easily split into rhombohedral shapes.

These geodes form in a unique way. They start as nodules of a soft mineral called alabaster. Over time, this dissolves and is replaced by celestite crystals. Some celestite geodes are huge, like the famous Crystal Cave in Ohio.

Celestite isn’t just pretty to look at. It’s used to make strontium, an element with many uses. You’ll find strontium in fireworks, where it creates red colors. It’s also used in making TV screens and ceramics.

Jasper Geode

Jasper geodes are the chameleons of the mineral world. They can appear in almost any color, often with multiple hues in a single specimen. Patterns can range from solid colors to intricate swirls, bands, or spots.

One fascinating type is picture jasper. These geodes contain patterns that resemble landscapes, with “skies,” “mountains,” and “rivers” visible in the stone. Each one is like a miniature painting created by nature.

Some jasper geodes contain orbicular patterns – spherical structures that formed as the jasper solidified. These create eye-catching bull’s-eye or flower-like designs in the stone, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind.

Carnelian Geode

Carnelian geodes have vibrant orange to reddish-brown colors. They can be somewhat see-through, which makes them look even more interesting. The bright colors come from the iron in the stone.

These geodes stand out from other similar stones. They’re brighter than sard, which is usually darker and more brownish. And unlike agate, carnelian doesn’t have bands or stripes.

Carnelian has been popular for a long time. Ancient Egyptians and Greeks used it to make special rings. It’s tough enough for everyday jewelry.

Some people heat or dye carnelian to make its color even brighter. This makes it a favorite for both rock collectors and jewelry lovers.

Fluorite Geode

Fluorite geodes are like nature’s rainbow. They come in many colors – purple, green, blue, yellow, and sometimes even clear or black. When you open one up, you might see cube-shaped or eight-sided crystals inside.

What makes fluorite special is that you can often see more than one color in a single stone. This is different from many other geodes. Also, fluorite has a unique way of splitting when it breaks.

A cool fact: fluorite glows blue under ultraviolet light. This was first discovered back in 1852. Because of its many colors and this glowing ability, fluorite is sometimes called the “most colorful mineral in the world.”

Scolecite Geode

Scolecite geodes are like tiny crystal caves. They’re usually white or colorless, but sometimes you might find pink, yellow, or green ones.

What makes them special is the crystals inside. They look like thin needles or delicate hairs, all pointing out from the center.

These geodes are different from others because of their crystal shape. Instead of blocky or chunky crystals, scolecite has these fine, hair-like ones. This gives them a unique, delicate look.

Scolecite has an interesting property – it can hold a lot of water in its structure. This means it can absorb and release water easily. This makes scolecite useful in various ways, not just as a pretty rock to look at.

Apophyllite Geode

Apophyllite geodes are like nature’s disco balls. They often have dark or black crystals inside a hollow rock. These crystals can be see-through or slightly cloudy, with cube-like or flat shapes.

What makes apophyllite geodes stand out is how the crystals form. They grow in round clusters that look like tiny disco balls. This unique formation is rare and makes them special to rock enthusiasts.

Collectors really prize these “disco ball” clusters. They’re not common, which makes them valuable to people who love unusual rocks. The way apophyllite crystals catch and reflect light adds to their appeal, making them fascinating to look at and study.

What Rough Geode Looks Like

Identifying a rough geode might seem tricky, but with a few tips, you can spot one even if you’re not a rock expert. Here’s how you can do it.

Look for a Rounded Shape

A rough geode often has a rounded or egg-like shape. It might not be perfectly round but look for a generally bulbous form.

When you’re out searching, skip the flat, jagged rocks. Geodes usually have smoother exteriors because they’ve been rolling around in rivers or other environments for a long time.

Check for a Dull, Bumpy Surface

The outside of a geode isn’t usually shiny. Instead, it’s dull, bumpy, and a bit rough.

Imagine a potato or a clump of dirt with some bumps and dents. That’s how a geode might look before it’s cracked open.

The outside won’t give away much of what’s inside, so don’t be fooled by its ordinary appearance.

Test the Weight

Pick up the rock. Does it feel lighter than it looks? That’s a good sign!

Geodes are hollow or partially hollow, which makes them lighter than solid rocks of the same size. If it feels unexpectedly light, you might have found something special.

Look for Tiny Crystals or Mineral Patches

Sometimes, you can spot small crystals or mineral deposits on the outside. These could look like tiny sparkles or specks of color.

While the outside of a geode is usually dull, a little peek of what’s inside might show through. Keep an eye out for these hints, especially if you’re in a known geode-rich area.

Tips on Where to Look

Once you get to the places we have listed below there are some things you should keep in mind when you’re searching:

Explore Riverbeds and Streams

Geodes often form in riverbeds or streams. Water flow smooths out their rough edges and deposits them in these areas.

When exploring, focus on gravel bars or the edges of rivers where rocks naturally gather.

Search in Sedimentary Rock Layers

Sedimentary rocks, like limestone, are prime spots for geodes. These rocks form in layers over time, trapping minerals inside.

Look for areas where sedimentary rocks are exposed, such as cliffs or road cuts.

Visit Old Mines or Quarries

Abandoned mines and quarries are excellent spots for geode hunting.

Workers often missed geodes while digging for other materials. Explore the tailings or leftover rock piles for hidden treasures.

Explore Hills and Rock Outcrops

Hills and rocky outcrops often reveal geodes. As erosion wears away the softer rock, it exposes the harder geodes.

Look for areas with exposed rocks and keep an eye out for rounded shapes.

The Best Places To Find Geodes in Louisiana

Louisiana is home to some of the best spots to mine gems, but searching for naturally occurring geodes here will be incredibly challenging. Compared to some of its nearby states, Louisiana doesn’t have much geode reserves. To date, there’s no known area here where you can find them naturally.

This doesn’t mean, though, that you can’t have your rockhound treat here. In fact, we found some pretty awesome places where you can find rocks and gems that are just as beautiful as geodes. We also included a few recommendations of sites from nearby states where you can find geodes. Are you ready?

Ouachita River

Located in the northwestern part of our state, Ouachita River runs for about 605 miles through Arkansas and Louisiana. It’s known for its clear, calm waters, and beautiful scenery. The terrain along the river is pretty diverse, with everything from rocky bluffs to sandy beaches.

Ouachita River’s geology is also interesting, with layers of sedimentary rock and even some small caves and formations. Not only is it a great site to find interesting rocks and gems, it’s also a sweet spot for fishing, kayaking, or just hanging out on the shore with a picnic lunch.

You can easily access the river by car or boat and there are plenty of public access points along its banks. But before you plan your trip, make sure you checkout the updated collecting guidelines in Louisiana first.

Where we found geode-like formations

You can find some of the best samples of Agates in our state if you explore the gravels of Ouachita River in Ouachita Parish, West Monroe.

DON'T MISS OUT ON ANY GREAT FINDS!

While you're out searching for Geodes 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!

Leesville

Leesville is a small town located in the central part of our state, not too far from Fort Polk. It’s surrounded by some of the most beautiful natural scenery you’ll ever lay your eyes on. The town itself is situated on rolling hills, and there are lots of forests and lakes nearby to explore.

The hills and valleys of Leesville make for some great hiking, and there are lots of creeks and rivers to fish in. The area also has lots of limestone formations and some cool caves to explore.

It’s easy to get here by car, and there are a few small airports nearby if you’re flying in from out of town.Whether you’re into rockhounding, outdoor activities, or just want to relax and soak up the local vibe, Leesville is definitely worth a visit.

Where we found geode-like formations

The sought-after Louisiana Opal can be found on the east as far as the Red River, west as far as the Sabine River, north as far as Shreveport, and in the outcrops of Catahoula Sandstone in Leesville.

Amite River

Amite River is located in the southeastern part of our state. It runs for about 117 miles through Louisiana and Mississippi, and is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

The terrain along the river is diverse, with everything from rocky rapids to sandy beaches. It has interesting layers of sedimentary rock and some cool limestone formations. Apart from its astounding geology, this place also boasts of diverse wildlife.

The best way to go here is by car, as there are plenty of public access points along the river banks. If you’re looking for a fun, easy-going adventure finding beautiful rocks and gems in Louisiana, Amite River should definitely be on your list!

Where we found geode-like formations

You can find beautiful specimens of Agate in Amite River if you explore its banks. You can also stretch your exploration to the east in the river gravel pits of the Tangipahoa, Bogue Chitto, and pearl rivers.

Rio Grande River

If you really want to get your hands on geodes in their natural environment, we recommend exploring Texas where there are great sites to find geodes. Rio Grande River is among the best places we can recommend to you. It’s a massive river that runs along the southern border of Texas, separating it from Mexico. Surrounded by some of the most beautiful scenery in the state, it’s a key source of water for both the United States and Mexico.

The terrain along the Rio Grande is pretty diverse, with everything from rugged canyons to sandy beaches. It has layers of volcanic rock and sedimentary formations— the perfect spots to find geodes!

Getting here is easy by car, and there are plenty of public access points along the river’s banks. However you plan on getting here, we can assure you that Rio Grande River won’t disappoint you!

Where we found geodes in Rio Grande River

When you visit here, make sure to explore the banks of the river and its gravel beds if you want to find geodes.

Little Lucy Creek

Another great place to find geodes in Texas is the Little Lucy Creek, a hidden gem that runs through the rolling hills of central Texas. Its geography is pretty unique with steep cliffs and rocky outcroppings lining its banks. Its terrain can be a bit rough in some spots, which adds more character to it. It also has lots of limestone formations and other interesting rock formations.

Getting to Little Lucy Creek can be a bit tricky, as there aren’t many roads that lead directly to it. But if you’re up for a bit of an adventure, it’s definitely worth the effort. There are plenty of trails and access points along the creek, and you can spend hours exploring the beautiful landscape.

Where we found geodes in Little Lucy Creek

To find geodes here, you can search for sedimentary rocks containing them at Little Lucy Creek bed and banks, as well as at its nearby hills and outcroppings.

Common Louisiana Geode-Hunting Questions

In this section, we’ll answer some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to finding geodes in Louisiana:

Where can you find amethyst geodes in Louisiana?

Unfortunately, amethyst geodes don’t naturally occur in Louisiana. But if you want to see, touch, and even take home one from our state, you’re sure to find them in some local rocks and gems shops here. Take a look at our list of some of the best local stores below.

Is it illegal to collect geodes in Louisiana?

It’s legal to collect geodes in Louisiana for as long as you follow our local laws concerning it. Make sure to also double check any specific collecting regulations based on the type of land you will explore here. For example, if you’re visiting a private land, make sure you obtain the permission of the owner first before doing any serious exploration.

The Best Places To Buy Geodes In Louisiana

Since geodes don’t naturally occur in Louisiana, the only sure way you can take home one from here is to buy them from the local rocks and gems shops. Below is a list of these stores so you can be guided on which one to visit:

• Cajun Classic Rocks and Minerals LLC – 2317 LA-308, Raceland, LA 70394
• Amazon – You’ll find here some great options for geodes and even whole kits to crack them open.
• Nola Rockz LLC – 8725 Oak St, New Orleans, LA 70118
• Heaven On Earth – 108 Rena Dr, Lafayette, LA 70503
• Peace Unearthed – 209 Bayou Gardens Blvd Suite Q, Houma, LA 70364
• Coyote Moon Crystals & Gifts – 711 Jefferson Hwy Suite 9, Baton Rouge, LA 70806
• Tears of Amethyst Crystals – 311 Summerfield Loop N, Pearl River, LA 70452

Additional places to find geodes in nearby states

Check out our guides for nearby states if you’ve already tried all of our suggestions above or if you’re planning a trip outside of the state:

• Geodes in Texas
• Geodes in Arkansas
• Geodes in Mississippi

If you have any recommendations for our list please leave a comment below!