The 31 Different Types of Jasper And What They All Look Like

Polished piece of a beautiful picture jasper

Picture jasper photo provided by Andy Lee

When we talk about what jasper looks like, think of an artist’s canvas painted with nature’s most vibrant hues— from deep reds and forest greens to sunny yellows and ocean blues. Sometimes, jasper even has patterns that look like landscapes! This amazing gem forms from volcanic ash or sediment, which gets mixed with silica over … Read more

Jade vs Emerald – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

A lustrous, polished, deep green Emerald

Green Emerald photo provided by Fine Mineral Photography

Jade and emerald are both treasured for their mesmerizing green tones and have held places of prominence throughout history. These beloved gems have adorned the regalia of ancient emperors and modern royalty. But beyond their shared hue, they harbor a world of unique qualities and attributes that set them apart. We’re going to peel back … Read more

The 29 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In California In 2025

watermelon tourmaline from California

Finding gems in California is easier than you might think for both beginners and experienced rockhounds. The state is full of accessible public land where you can successfully dig and sieve for valuable finds. From dry river channels to specific areas in open quarries, the terrain offers many places to start your search. Knowing what … Read more

The 28 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Arizona In 2025

turquoise gemstone from Arizona

Arizona is a premier destination for anyone seeking to a bit of gem hunting. Its expansive desert landscape and rugged mountains hold a wide variety of minerals waiting to be discovered. Different kinds of terrain across Arizona can hold gems in surprising places. Riverbeds, dry washes, and gravel bars can all carry stones that have … Read more