Chalcopyrite and pyrite are two minerals that can look a lot alike. Because of their shiny, gold-like color, it’s no wonder that many people, even those who know a bit about rocks, sometimes mix them up. Both often boast a dazzling metallic sheen, which can lead even the most trained eyes to confuse one for … Read more
If you’re a dedicated rockhound, you know the hunt for impressive crystals in Maryland is an exciting pursuit that gets much easier once you have the right information. The key to having a truly rewarding day out in the field is knowing not just the specific terrain features to look for, but also the particular … Read more
Across the deserts and canyons, crystals in Arizona rest just beneath layers of dust and stone. The state holds countless spots where mineral-rich ground has revealed its treasures over time. Clear quartz, smoky variations, and colorful mineral clusters reflect the variety hidden within the landscape. Each discovery feels like uncovering a bright piece of the … Read more
Getting out to search for your own gems in Illinois is a great way to connect with the land’s deep natural history. There are plenty of public and private areas where you can give it a try, from riverbanks to old mining sites. Collectors often focus on regions that once saw heavy mining or contain … Read more
Gem hunting in Maryland really delivers. Despite not being one of the largest states around it’s packed with hidden gems ready to be discovered. From the rolling hills of the Piedmont to the streams that cut through the countryside, the state is full of spots where rockhounds can find crystals, minerals, and even the occasional … Read more
Pennsylvania’s copper deposits have drawn prospectors and miners for generations. From small creeks to abandoned mines, copper can be found throughout the state’s rocky terrain. Most copper discoveries happen in areas where old mining operations once existed. The telltale green and blue stains on rocks often signal where copper minerals are present. Local rock hounds … Read more
Copper hunting in New York can be an exciting adventure for both beginners and experienced collectors. Many people don’t realize that this metal can be found throughout the state, from old mining sites to natural deposits. The search for copper in New York goes back to the early settlers who discovered rich deposits while building … Read more
Florida’s hidden copper deposits stretch from ancient Native American mines to modern-day mineral sites. Local rockhounds have discovered stunning specimens of native copper, azurite, and malachite across the state’s diverse geological formations. Many rock collectors waste countless hours searching in common spots, missing out on the state’s richest copper locations. The frustration of coming home … Read more
Texas has copper hidden in some of the most unexpected places. From the mineral-rich hills of the Trans-Pecos region to the old mining sites near Van Horn, the state has been a quiet producer of this valuable metal for years. But many rockhounds miss out because they don’t know where to look. Instead of searching … Read more
Copper runs deep in the land of California, hidden in old mining towns, rugged mountains, and even quiet desert landscapes. Long before the Gold Rush, miners were pulling rich copper ore from the earth, shaping the industry that still leaves traces today. Some of the best places to find copper today are hidden in plain … Read more
