Quartz is a rare crystal known for being beautiful and strong. You can find quartz in Wyoming’s many different settings. People like this material because it’s useful in many fields, like electronics and jewelry.
The state’s huge wilderness and rocky landscapes make it a great place for quartz to form and be found. There are different kinds of quartz in the state, such as clear crystals and ones that are pink, purple, or smoky gray.
This guide is meant to help you start your quartz-finding journey. It tells you where to find them, how to stay safe while exploring, and interesting facts about the state’s rocks. Your journey will be fun and worthwhile!
What Is Wyoming Quartz Anyway?
Quartz is a very common type of mineral that is found all around the world. It’s made up of silicon and oxygen, two of the most abundant elements in the Earth’s crust.
It comes in many different colors and forms, from clear and colorless to pink, purple, or even black. One of the interesting things about quartz is its crystal structure, which can form beautiful, six-sided prisms.
These crystals can be tiny, like grains of sand, or huge, like a big rock. Quartz is really hard and doesn’t break easily, which is why it’s used in things like watches, electronics, and even buildings.
Quartz can be found in forests, on the beach, and many other places. It’s often found in places where there are active volcanoes or fault lines where there has been a lot of natural movement.
This article was written to help you narrow down your search by giving you a better idea of what quartz looks like.
Quartz often stays together when other rocks break down because it is so hard and doesn’t break down easily in the weather. The reason you might find quartz crystals on a beach, in the woods, or while walking along a river is because of this.
It’s mined in large amounts for industrial use, but crystal enthusiasts also value quartz because of its natural beauty and wide range of colors.
The Types Of Quartz Found In Wyoming
From the shimmering clarity of rock crystal to the delicate hues of rose quartz and the mystic shades of smoky quartz, Wyoming’s landscapes offer a treasure trove for mineral enthusiasts.
These quartz varieties, each unique in color and formation, are a testament to this rugged state’s diverse and dynamic geology.
- Clear quartz
- Milky quartz
- Rose quartz
- Smoky quartz
- 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 mineral 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 Quartz In Wyoming
We’ve listed our favorite places to find quartz in the state. There are many locations to find gems in Wyoming, but not every spot contains quartz. Though not as well known, some of these places have great opportunities for searching.
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
Great Divide Basin
The Great Divide Basin is a huge, remote place that is known for its unique rock formations. It’s part of the Rocky Mountains, but it stands out because it doesn’t flow into the ocean.
The water that falls here either disappears or seeps into the ground instead. This place is shaped like a big bowl with higher ground all around it.
There are deserts, rocky hills, and sometimes meadows in the basin. A sense of adventure and lots of open room can be found there.
There are different shaped and colored quartz rocks here. Some are sharp and clear, while others may look smoky or pink.
There is a wide range of quartz here because the crystals formed in a place with different rocks and weather. Because the basin is so far away and hasn’t been touched, these quartz layers are often in good shape.
Where we found quartz at the Great Divide Basin
The basin’s rivers and streams can carry quartz crystals, especially after floods or heavy rains. Look in the gravel and sand along riverbanks or in dried-up stream beds.
The tools every geode hunter will need
When you're out looking for geodes having the right tools for the job is very important. 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 geode hunters 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 geode-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.
Medicine Bow Mountains
Medicine Bow Mountain is a fun place with beautiful nature and interesting rocks. This mountain line goes all the way across the state and is famous for its beautiful forests, meadows, and rocky peaks.
Trekkers, tourists, and people who love nature love to go there to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views. The mountains are part of the Rocky Mountains, which are known for having a lot of different kinds of minerals.
There are different kinds of quartz in this mountain range. There are clear crystals that look almost like glass, smoky quartz that looks dark and mysterious, and even rose quartz, which is a soft pink color. A lot of the time, these quartz diamonds are hidden in rocks.
Water and wind naturally wear away at these crystals, revealing their beauty. While you’re looking for quartz, remember to be kind to the park’s plants and animals and follow the rules.
Where we found quartz in the Medicine Bow Mountain
The best places to find quartz in Medicine Bow Mountain are along the hiking trails, near rock outcrops, and in the streams.
North Platte River
The North Platte River is a long and winding river known for having clear water and lots of wildlife. It goes through a lot of different landscapes, from canyons and mountains to wide, open fields.
A lot of people like to fish, boat, and just enjoy wildlife along this river. As it flows, the North Platte River cuts through different types of rocks and soils, picking up minerals and stones like quartz along the way.
A lot of quartz can be found in riverbeds, and the North Platte River is no different. Rivers find and carry quartz rocks as they flow and erode the land.
Moving water helps clean and polish the quartz, which makes it easier to see its unique shape and sparkle.
When you’re looking for quartz treasures in the beautiful North Platte River, always stay safe near water and treat nature with care.
Where we found quartz at North Platte River
These crystals can then be found along the riverbanks or in the gravel and sand at the bottom of the river. The areas where the river slows down or natural bends are good places to start.
Sweetwater River
The Sweetwater River flows through the state’s rough land and is a beautiful river. It is famous for its historical value because it was an important route for pioneers on the Oregon Trail.
The river is a peaceful place that nature fans, campers, and anglers visit. Its waters flow through various landscapes, from grassy fields to rocky areas, making the environment very diverse.
It’s a great place to look for quartz if you are interested in rocks and geology. The way this river flows through different rock types makes it a natural conveyor belt for many minerals, including quartz.
Also, new quartz layers may be found after heavy rain or in the spring when the snow melts and the river flows faster.
Where we found quartz at Sweetwater River
The best spots to find quartz along the Sweetwater River are where the water’s flow is slower, such as in wider river sections or near natural bends. These crystals can also be found along the riverbanks or within the gravel and sand of the riverbed.
Wind River Range
As part of the Rocky Mountains, the Wind River Range is a beautiful mountain range. Some of the hills here are the tallest in the state and are known for being breathtaking. If you love hiking, climbing, and being outside, this range is a dream come true.
It has beautiful views, clear lakes, and lots of different kinds of wildlife. You can enjoy the Wind River Range’s natural beauty as well.
Quartz is one of the gems that you can find in the Wind River Range. Because of its long geological past, this area is great for finding quartz.
There are many shapes and sizes of these crystals, from clear, sharp ones to ones that look smoky or have a hint of rose color.
Where we found quartz at the Wind River Range
The best places to search are around the rocky outcrops, in the streams, and near the base of cliffs.
Other Great Places To Find Wyoming Quartz
We wanted to talk about the other places on our list after we talked about our top picks. Here are a few more sites that have worked for us, and below that is a list of each suggestion broken down by county.
Our recommendations by county
| County | Location |
| Converse | Boxelder Creek Canyon |
| Fremont | Atlantic City – South Pass City, regional stream gravels, draws, washes, gullies, hillsides |
| Fremont | Granite Mountains |
| Fremont | Tin Cup Mountain |
| Johnson | Buffalo area, both sides of US 16 |
| Lincoln | Green River |
| Lincoln/td> | Kemmerer area, Hams Fork, all surrounding breaks and washes |
| Park | Meeteetsee area, Wood River |
| Sweetwater | Lost Creek |
| Sweetwater | Farson area, Big Sandy River |
| Sweetwater | Green River Basin |
| Sweetwater | Aspen Mountain |
| Uinta | Black Fork Creek |
| Washakie | Worland area, broad regional bench gravels, regional draws and washes |
Common Quartz-Hunting Questions
Here are some questions that people often ask about where to find quartz in the state that should also be answered:
Is it illegal to collect quartz in Wyoming?
Collecting quartz in Wyoming is generally allowed, but there are important rules and regulations that you need to be aware of.
On Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands and in national forests, casual rock collecting for personal use is usually permitted.
This means you can collect small amounts of quartz without a permit. However, if you plan to sell the quartz or collect large amounts, you might need a permit.
Collecting rocks, including quartz, is typically not allowed in national parks and national monuments. These areas are protected, and removing any natural materials is usually prohibited.
To collect quartz on private property, you must have the permission of the landowner. Trespassing and removing minerals without consent is illegal.
Before you go quartz hunting, it’s a good idea to check with the local BLM office, forest service office, or other relevant authorities in the area where you plan to collect. They can provide up-to-date information on regulations and permits.
The Best Places To Buy Quartz In Wyoming
Some people don’t like the dirty and hard work that comes with holding a piece of quartz, even though it’s always fun to do. If you want to find quartz without having to do that, this is for you!
Here are some of our favorite rock shops in the area where you can buy and find different kinds of quartz:
- Ava’s Silver & Rock Shop – 631 Shoshoni St, Thermopolis, WY 82443, United States
- Crystal Den Wy – 101 Osborne Ave, Gillette, WY 82716, United States
- Pinup Tea – 528 County Rd LOT 6, Evanston, WY 82930, United States
- Star Valley Rock Shop – 300 Stockhorn, Thayne, WY 83127, United States
- Tynsky’s Rock & Jewelry – 706 Dewar Dr, Rock Springs, WY 82901, United States
