Learning how to find moonstones can be a thrilling experience. We’re here to guide you through some of the best spots in Wisconsin where moonstones are generally found.
We’ve explored various spots across the state and have gathered some great insights.
With our experience, we’ll share our top tips for successful rockhounding, like what kind of tools to bring and the kinds of areas where you’ll have the most chances of success.
What Are Wisconsin Moonstones Anyway?
Moonstones are a fascinating rock that catches the eye with its shimmering appearance, which experts call adularescence. This glow seems to move across the stone’s surface, making it a favorite among rock collectors.
To identify moonstones, we look for their distinctive pearly or opalescent luster. this gem is part of the feldspar family, a common group of minerals that makes up a large part of the Earth’s crust.
Moonstones are typically found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. These are rocks formed from molten material or altered by heat and pressure deep inside the Earth.
Other good spots are regions where tectonic plates, the giant pieces of Earth’s crust, meet and create pressure and heat.
The value of moonstones can vary widely. The monetary value depends on factors like color, clarity, size, and the quality of adularescence. Clear, transparent moonstones with a strong blue sheen are generally the most valuable.
However, even less perfect pieces have their charm and can fetch a good price.
The Types Of Moonstones Found In Wisconsin
The variety of moonstones in Wisconsin may be limited, but these are the types you can expect to find:
- Rainbow moonstones
- White moonstones
- Peach moonstones
We also encourage you to check out our guide to crystal mining in Wisconsin. It has useful tips and fascinating information to enhance your rockhounding journey in the state.
- 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 Wisconsin
While Wisconsin moonstones are rare, the hunt for them is part of the fun. In our experience, the key to success is knowing the right places to look. We can give you recommendations and guidance that can point you in the right direction.
We can also provide you with information on how to mine gems in Wisconsin. This will equip you with the knowledge you need for a successful and exciting gem-hunting adventure.
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
Wausau
Wausau is surrounded by rolling hills and diverse landscapes. The city sits near the Wisconsin River, which has shaped the land over countless years.
The terrain around Wausau is a mix of forested hills, open valleys, and scattered lakes. The hills are part of a larger formation known as the Wausau Complex, which includes some of the oldest rocks in the region.
Geologically, Wausau is known for its complex mix of metamorphic and igneous rocks. We’ve seen great examples of quartzite and granite here.
If you’re planning to collect rocks in this area, it’s important to know the rules. You’ll need to check with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for guidelines and rules on rock collecting.
Where we found moonstones in Wausau
There’s a known moonstone deposit in Wausau, but it’s located on private property in Stettin. Thus, you’ll have to secure permission from the owner first before you can explore the area.
Interestingly, there may be undiscovered moonstone deposits elsewhere in Marathon County, waiting to be found.
This mineral can be found in pegmatites, granite, metamorphic rocks, and alluvial deposits, which can give you clues on where to mine for 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 rockhound supplies 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
Northeast Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Northeastern 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
Below, we’ll share what we’ve learned about finding moonstones in Wisconsin, which can be helpful in your explorations in the state.
Is it illegal to collect moonstones in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, collecting moonstones, like any rockhounding activity, isn’t illegal, but there are important rules to follow. The key is knowing where you are and what’s allowed in that place.
On state-owned land, like state parks or natural areas, you usually can’t remove any natural materials, including rocks and minerals. This rule helps protect the environment and preserves it for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re on private land, you need the landowner’s permission to collect moonstones or any other rocks.
On federal land, like national forests, rules can be different. In some areas, small-scale collecting for personal use is allowed, but it’s always best to check first.
The Best Places To Buy Moonstones In Wisconsin
Here are the best shops that sell moonstones in Wisconsin, along with a variety of other rocks and minerals:
- The Gem Shop, Inc. – W64N723 Washington Ave, Cedarburg, WI 53012
- Steven’s Rocks & Gifts – 134 E Main St, Marshall, WI 53559
- Quintessential Quartz – Lower Level, 208 E Main St, Reedsburg, WI 53959
- 611 Crystals, LLC – 115 5th Ave S, La Crosse, WI 54601
- Burnie’s Rock Shop – 901 E Johnson St, Madison, WI 53703
