The nickname “The Gem State” makes more sense once you learn how many places hold gemstones in Idaho, even if the terrain takes some effort to explore. The range of minerals is broad enough that collectors can stay busy across different parts of the state. Idaho’s geology supports everything from common minerals to stones that … Read more
Rockhounds looking to expand their collection know that the best spots for amethyst in Oregon can yield some truly spectacular finds. However, you need to know exactly where to start looking. Tracking down this beautiful purple quartz comes down to understanding the places it tends to form and recognizing the telltale terrain around it. General … Read more
Beneath the broad prairies and river valleys, gemstones in Nebraska add unexpected color to the quiet landscape. Their presence hints at how time and nature worked together to shape what lies below the surface. Across the state, old waterways and shifting soils have left behind traces of stones that reveal more than meets the eye. … Read more
Geodes in Indiana are one of the state’s best kept natural surprises and they’re hiding in places most people drive past every day. Along creek banks farm fields and rocky road cuts in southern Indiana lie round ordinary looking rocks that crack open to reveal sparkling quartz crystals and sometimes stunning purple or smoky interiors. … Read more
Oregon’s rich mining history isn’t just about gold. Many don’t know that the state’s volcanic past created perfect conditions for gemstones, including beautiful sapphires. Looking for sapphires can be tricky, especially if you’re new to rockhounding. There’s nothing worse than spending hours searching in the wrong spots, only to go home empty-handed. We’ve done the … Read more
Opals are like the brightest gems in the world, and you can find them in many places in Oregon. These stones are unique because when light moves across them, it makes them sparkle with all the rainbow colors. Many people in Oregon know about the “Oregon Sunstone,” but there’s another prize there, too: the Oregon … Read more
Oregon, a land of natural beauty, holds a treasure trove of rocks and minerals. That’s why its diverse geology is a haven for rockhounds! From the lush forests to the rugged coastlines, it has a variety of landscapes that hold unique rocky wonders. Among these precious finds is the beautiful and vibrant turquoise. If you’re … Read more
Finding thunder eggs in Oregon can be exciting but hard if you don’t have the right information or don’t know where to look. These unique geological formations are not technically geodes but relatively solid masses of mineral matter. To find them, you often have to go through rocky terrain or thick forests; sometimes, you need … Read more
Rockhounding in Oregon is an absolute delight for any rock enthusiast. With its diverse geological landscape and rich mineral deposits, the state offers a treasure trove of opportunities for rock-hounding adventures. From searching for agates on the picturesque beaches of the coast to unearthing thundereggs in the high desert, Oregon has something to offer every … Read more
If you’re an avid rock collector or simply enjoy unique natural wonders, you may have stumbled upon geodes. Geodes are fascinating rocks that contain hollow cavities filled with crystals, minerals, or other materials but being able to tell if a rock is a geode can be pretty difficult. Many of us have probably walked right … Read more
