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 Types of Geodes You Can Find in Tennessee

Geodes are a little shy and won’t just materialize in your backyard. Don’t worry, though! Considering that these can be found anywhere on earth. The price of a geode and its attractiveness are based on what crystal the geode contains. The following geodes are located in Tennessee:

• Calcite geodes
• Crystal geodes
• Quartz geodes

The Best Places To Find Geodes in Tennessee

We’ll start by listing some of our top spots in the state for geode hunting. Only a few amazing places to mine for gems in Tennessee can be appropriate for what we’re looking for. Even while some of these locations may not be well-known, they usually offer top choices when we’re looking.

Cannon County

Cannon County is a little slice of heaven located in the heart of Tennessee. It’s got a rich history and unique geography that makes it a great place to explore. The county is situated on the Cumberland Plateau, a big ol’ rock formation that runs through the state’s middle. The terrain is hilly and rocky, with many little streams and creeks running through it. You’ll see lots of big boulders and rock outcroppings, which make it a great place to hunt for geodes!

Speaking of geodes, Cannon County is known for its incredible geology. It’s home to the famous “Cannon County Concretions,” which are these awesome rock formations that look like giant eggs. They have formed millions of years ago when a shallow sea covered the area, and they make for some pretty epic photo ops. Geography-wise, Cannon County is pretty diverse. There are rolling hills, thick forests, and wide-open fields.

Ensure you’ve read up on the most recent collecting guidelines from the State of Tennessee before bringing anything home.

Where we found geodes in Cannon County

Even though geodes can be found throughout the county, we’ve discovered the following sites to be excellent:

• Road cuts, quarries, cliffs, bluffs, plowed fields, and gravels
• In Woodbury area

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!

Dale Hollow Reservoir

Dale Hollow Reservoir is a fantastic place for anyone who loves water sports, fishing, or just soaking up the beautiful scenery. It’s located in the rolling hills of northern Tennessee and covers more than 27,000 acres of surface area. The reservoir is surrounded by rugged terrain, with cliffs and many big rocks. It’s like something out of a postcard!

The geology of Dale Hollow Reservoir is pretty fascinating. In fact, it makes the reservoir a great site to find Tennessee crystals. The area was once home to a series of waterfalls and rapids, which created a unique landscape over time. Geography-wise, Dale Hollow Reservoir is situated in a pretty remote area. The area has several campgrounds and hiking trails so that you can make a day of it. It’s a great place to escape it all and enjoy peace and quiet. So if you’re looking for a beautiful spot to relax and have fun, head over to Dale Hollow Reservoir!

Where we found geodes in Dale Hollow Reservoir

Geodes can be found in and around the Dale Hollow Reservoir in Tennessee. The reservoir is located in a region rich in geodes, and they can often be found in the surrounding hills and along the shoreline. The best places to look for geodes are in areas with exposed rock formations or in dry creek beds where they may have been washed downstream.

Fentress County

Fentress County is a hidden gem located in the heart of Tennessee. It’s a beautiful area full of rolling hills, lush forests, and sparkling rivers. The county is situated on the Cumberland Plateau, which means it’s got some pretty amazing geology. There are lots of rock formations, caves, and even some waterfalls. It’s like something out of a fairy tale!

The terrain of Fentress County is pretty diverse. There are many little valleys and ridges, and several rivers and streams crisscross the area. Geography-wise, Fentress County is located in a pretty remote area. It’s a great place to escape it all and enjoy peace and quiet. Whether you’re looking for a little adventure or a peaceful getaway, Fentress County has something for everyone.

Where we found geodes in Fentress County

There are geodes almost everywhere in the county. However, there are a few places you ought to check out first:

• In Mississippian limestone exposures and quarries
• North side of Boles Creek in the Boatland area
• Area quarries in Buffalo Cove and Carpenter’s Hollow in Jamestown

Overton County

Overton County is a wonderful place to explore for anyone who loves the outdoors. The county is in the rolling hills of Tennessee, full of beautiful scenery and interesting geology. The area is situated on the Cumberland Plateau, meaning many unique rock formations and caves exist to explore. It’s like something out of a dream!

The terrain of Overton County is pretty diverse. There are many hills and valleys, and several rivers and streams crisscross the area. Geography-wise, Overton County is located in a pretty remote area. It’s a great place to escape and enjoy peace and quiet. Whether you’re looking for a little adventure or a peaceful getaway, Overton County has something for everyone. So come on down and see what all the fuss is about!

Where we found geodes in Overton County

• In Mississippian limestone exposures and quarries.
• Allons area, west of SR-52
• Monroe area, 0.75-mile southeast, on the northeast slope of  Pilot Knob
• Livingston area, NW 4 mi., near Allons and W of Rte. 52, a quarry

Warren County

Warren County is a fantastic place for anyone who loves the great outdoors. It has some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. The area is situated on the Cumberland Plateau, meaning many interesting rock formations and caves exist to explore. It’s like something out of a storybook!

The terrain of Warren County is pretty diverse. There are lots of hills and valleys, and several rivers and streams crisscross the area. Geography-wise, the county is located in a pretty remote area. It’s a great place to escape it all and enjoy peace and quiet. Warren County offers something for everyone, whether seeking a little adventure or a quiet retreat.

Where we found geodes in Warren County

• In Mississippian limestone exposures and quarries.
• West side of Ben Lomond Mountain

Other Great Places To Dig For Tennessee Geodes

After stating our favorites, we want to be more helpful to you, so we’ll share the other locations we’ve discovered. Before moving on to more general locations, we’ll recommend places we’ve found at each county.

Our recommendations by county

Common Geode-Hunting Questions

It’s crucial to respond to frequently asked questions about geodes from Tennessee, such as the ones listed below:

Where can you find amethyst geodes in Tennessee

Amethyst geodes can be purchased in many Tennessee rock shops even though they’re not naturally found in the state. You can also keep an eye out for vendors selling amethyst geodes at rock shows.

Is it illegal to collect geodes in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, collecting geodes is permitted as long as you abide by local restrictions. If you’re on public property, be sure you abide by all applicable local laws. Make sure you also have permission to collect when you’re on private property.

The Best Places To Buy Geodes In Tennessee

Finding geodes outside for hours on end is not for everyone. Sometimes all you need is to display them in your workstation or add to your collection.

Here are a few more places to get gorgeous geodes from our favorite local rock shops.

• Cosmic Connections – 2117 8th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37204, United States
• Amazon – We found that Amazon has a wide collection of geodes. For those who would prefer to do it themselves, there are even complete kits that include geodes to break apart. 
• Old Smoky Gem Mine – 968 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States
• Stone Harmony – 101 E Main St Suite 101, Gallatin, TN 37066, United States
• Stonekeepers – 215 Robert Rose Dr e, Murfreesboro, TN 37129, United States
• Stones of Spirit – 6712 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37919, United States

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 Alabama
• Geodes in Arkansas
• Geodes in Georgia
• Geodes in Kentucky
• Geodes in Mississippi
• Geodes in Missouri
• Geodes in North Carolina
• Geodes in Virginia

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