10 Best Places To Find Labradorite In California In 2026

California’s rocky terrains hide some of Earth’s most magical stones. Among them lies Labradorite, a crystal that flashes brilliant blue and green when light hits it just right. Native Americans believed these shimmering stones contained the frozen fire of the northern lights. Today, rockhounds and crystal collectors travel across the state’s mountains and coastal areas … Read more

The 21 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Connecticut In 2026

watermelon tourmaline from Connecticut

Connecticut is full of opportunities for gem hunting. The state’s streams, exposed outcrops, and other natural settings often conceal colorful treasures. With a little patience, each search can turn up something unexpected. There are many different ways to approach gem hunting in Connecticut. Searching along moving water, exploring rocky areas, or investigating older disturbed ground … Read more

The 29 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In California In 2026

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 20 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Nebraska In 2026

opal from Nebraska

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

The 27 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Pennsylvania In 2026

amazonite from Pennsylvania

Finding gemstones in Pennsylvania is actually a lot easier than in a lot of places. If you’re looking for a unique and exciting adventure in Pennsylvania gem mining is the perfect activity for you! Going home with a diverse collection of beautiful, high-quality specimens is entirely possible, whether you’re new to rockhounding or a seasoned … Read more

The 24 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Washington In 2026

nephrite jade gemstone from Washington

Gem hunting in Washington is an incredible opportunity across Washington’s diverse landscape. From its rugged coastlines to its winding riverbeds, the state is a prime destination for seekers of natural treasures. You’ll want to visit the state’s many streambeds, lake shores, and even certain older mining dumps for the best chance of finding something. Walking … Read more

The Common And Valuable Rocks, Minerals, and Gems of Hawaii You Should Know

bright green raw peridot crystal

Peridot provided by MineralsParadiseShop

Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches and volcanoes, but it’s also a place where you can find a variety of rocks, minerals, and gems. The types of rocks found in Hawaii can be quite diverse, making it an interesting spot for rock enthusiasts. However, finding these natural wonders can be challenging if you don’t … Read more

The Common And Valuable Rocks, Minerals, and Gems of Nebraska You Should Know

rough Lake Superior agate with white and red bands

Lake Superior agate provided by MinnesotaRocksGems

Nebraska is a great place for anyone interested in geology or just looking to start a rock collection. With a wide variety of types of rocks found in Nebraska, from Lake Superior agate to opal to hematite, there’s plenty to discover. However, finding these rocks and minerals can be tough if you don’t know what … Read more

19 Iridescent Gemstones That Are Incredible To See

A stunning polished labradorite from Madagascar

Polished labradorite photo provided by @finemineralphotography

Have you ever seen a gemstone that sparkles with all the colors of the rainbow? That’s iridescence for you! You might see blues, greens, pinks, and purples, all shifting and changing as you move the gemstone around. This happens because of how their tiny structures inside bounce light around in special ways. In this article, … Read more