The 26 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In New Mexico In 2026

turquoise from New Mexico

Looking for gemstones in New Mexico is an experience that fits perfectly with the nickname Land of Enchantment. The state’s wide deserts and rugged mountains have been drawing treasure hunters for generations, each hoping to uncover something colorful beneath the surface. There are countless places to explore, from state parks to open stretches of federal … Read more

The 33 Excellent Places To Find Indiana Geodes in 2026

Cut geode from Indiana

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

The 26 Different Types of Geodes And What They All Look Like

A huge amethyst geode showing spectacular purple crystals

Open amethyst geode photo provided by malta stones

At first glance, a geode seems like a plain, round, and ordinary rock. But once you crack it open, you’ll discover a treasure trove of sparkling crystals inside! It starts as bubbles in volcanic rock or as animal burrows, tree roots, or mud balls in sedimentary rock. Over millions of years, minerals seep in and … Read more

The 46 Best Places For Rockhounding in New Mexico In 2026

A gorgeous rare blue green chrysocolla mineral with spots of black and streaks of white

Chrysocolla photo provided by Weinrich Minerals

For rockhounds, New Mexico is an absolute gold mine! This state offers a distinctive and exhilarating experience for every rockhound because of its varied geological formations and abundant mineral reserves. From sparkling minerals to ancient fossils, New Mexico has it all! The abundance of options is among the best things about rockhounding in New Mexico. … Read more

How To Find Geodes And Where To Look In 2026 (Experts Guide)

Three geodes of different varieties that can be found

Geodes are stunning and vibrant rocks that are highly sought after and can be very valuable. Roughly spherical or oval in shape, geodes are defined by a hollow cavity encompassed with beautifully layered bands of minerals and intricate arrangements of crystals.  Read on to find information on how geodes form, the different types of geodes, … Read more