We’re sharing our knowledge about how to find moonstones to help make your search both fun and successful. It can be tough to spot these gems, but having the right information can help you.
We’ve explored many areas in Montana, and we know the best areas for finding moonstones. With our guidance, you’ll learn the best ways to search and what to look for.
With our tips, we’ll help you make sure that you’re well-prepared for a successful moonstone hunt in Montana’s beautiful landscape.
What Are Montana Moonstones Anyway?
Moonstones come in colors like white, blue, and even peach. It’s part of the feldspar group, which is a common type of mineral. But moonstones themselves are pretty special.
To identify moonstones, look for their unique feature called adularescence. It refers to how the stones gleam like they have a soft light glowing from the inside.
Moonstones are primarily found in igneous and metamorphic rocks, which are rocks formed from magma or altered by heat and pressure, respectively. These types of rocks provide the perfect conditions for moonstone formation.
Determining what moonstones are worth can be tricky at times. Their monetary value varies widely. The most valuable moonstones exhibit a clear, intense blue sheen and are free from any cracks.
Their value increases with their size and the uniqueness of their coloration. Some rare moonstones fetch high prices, especially if they’re large or have exceptional qualities. The price of a moonstone hinges on these factors.
The Types Of Moonstones Found In Montana
These are the types of moonstones that can be found in Montana:
- White moonstones
- Peach moonstones
For those excited about exploring more of what the state has to offer, we’ve got a great resource on crystal mining in Montana.
- The deep experience and understanding of our team about the area
- Recommendations from local groups and clubs
- How easy it is to get the a particular location
- Safety and potential hazards when collecting
- Weighing private and public locations
- The ability for both experienced and novice geode enthusiasts to find great samples
With these factors in mind we’ve been able to put together a fantastic list that just about anyone can use!
The Best Places To Find Moonstones in Montana
Knowing where to look, even if it’s just a general area, is key to successfully discovering moonstones. Having the right information can make all the difference.
For those eager for more tips for successful rock collecting, we’ve put together information on how to mine gems in Montana.
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
Bozeman
Bozeman is nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by magnificent mountains. The Bridger Mountains to the north and the Gallatin Range to the south frame this beautiful area. It’s a mix of rolling hills and flat plains, making it a diverse landscape for exploration.
It’s a region rich in geological history, with opportunities to discover different types of sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.
In addition, the nearby mountain ranges and valleys are ideal for hiking and observing geological features. In these mountains and valleys, rock collectors and enthusiasts can find a variety of stones and minerals.
Before you start your explorations, always make sure to check with the Montana Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for the latest guidelines and rules. The BLM will help you understand where and how you can collect rocks responsibly.
Where we found moonstones in Bozeman
We’ve discovered that the cliffs and roadcuts surrounding the city are spots to find Montana moonstones. However, it’s important to remember that moonstones aren’t common here, so finding them requires patience and a sharp eye.
Look in mica schist, a type of rock common in the area, for potential moonstones. The best way to identify these gems is by looking for white rocks and checking them in sunlight to see if they flash blue – those are likely moonstones.
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 equipment 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
Northwest Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Northwestern 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.
Common Moonstone-Hunting Questions
We’re going to share what we know to answer the common questions that people have about moonstones in Montana. Our adventures have taught us a lot, and we’re always ready to help others learn about moonstone hunting in the state.
Is it illegal to collect moonstones in Montana?
It’s generally legal to collect rocks, including moonstones, in the state. However, if you’re interested in where to mine for moonstones in Montana, it’s best to research and identify areas where collecting is permitted.
On public lands managed by agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the U.S. Forest Service, recreational rock collecting is allowed. This includes collecting moonstones.
However, these agencies have specific guidelines to ensure that collecting is done responsibly. For example, they often limit the amount you can collect and prohibit using tools that could damage the land.
On private property, you must get permission from the landowner before collecting any moonstones. This is crucial because collecting without permission is considered trespassing and theft.
Also, some areas are off-limits for collecting due to environmental protection or historical preservation reasons. National Parks, for instance, do not allow rock collecting.
The Best Places To Buy Moonstones In Montana
In our travels across Montana, we’ve come across some great shops where you can buy moonstones. These are our favorites:
- Kehoe’s Agate Shop – 1020 Holt Dr, Bigfork, MT 59911
- Between the Worlds – 205 W Main St, Hamilton, MT 59840
- Earth’s Treasures – 25 N Willson Ave # B, Bozeman, MT 59715
- Windy Way Rock Shop – 5237 US-89 #13, Livingston, MT 59047
- Craggy J Natural Arts – 7513 Montana Hwy 35, Bigfork, MT 59911
