The mineral pyrite, also called “fool’s gold,” has fascinated people for hundreds of years. It got its name because it looks like shiny gold, which makes people think they have found real gold. If you are wondering how to tell the difference between real and fake pyrite, it’s not always easy to tell just by … Read more
Pyrite exhibiting the not-so-common octahedral form
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
Finding quality crystals in Nebraska is an achievable goal if you know what to look for. The key is understanding the specific environments where they are commonly found. Not all land is created equal, and you can save time by focusing your search on particular kinds of terrain. Certain areas are known for accumulating a … Read more
It may not be the first state that comes to mind when considering crystal hunting, but you can certainly find crystals in Texas if you know where to look. For the seasoned rockhound, the Lone Star State offers a surprising variety of collectible specimens, from common quartz to more unusual finds. The mineral-rich areas in … Read more
The variety of crystals in Missouri has long made the state a quiet favorite among collectors. From surface finds to those tucked within quarries and creek beds, opportunities to uncover them stretch across the state. You can spot everything from clear quartz to richly colored minerals that form in pockets where water once flowed. Many … Read more
When you think about finding beautiful crystals in Alabama, you might be surprised by the variety and quality of specimens waiting to be uncovered in the Southeast. This often-overlooked region can yield a surprising variety and quality of crystalline treasures for those willing to get their hands dirty. Across the state’s various prospecting areas, you … Read more
There is a surprising number of spots to hunt for gems in Kansas. Beneath the surface, colorful stones wait in places shaped by water, wind, and time. You don’t need fancy tools to find them, just patience and a sense of where to look. When you start noticing subtle differences in color and texture, each … Read more
Hunting for gems in Iowa is a lot of fun and more fruitful than you might think. The state has some fantastic opportunities to go home with a bucket full of beautiful finds if you focus your hunt in the right places. It’s entirely possible to amass a high-quality, diverse assortment of specimens, from vibrant … Read more
Gem hunting in Missouri has a lot of potential, with gemstones scattered across its diverse landscapes. The state’s geology has left a remarkable variety of materials waiting to be discovered, from sparkling !Quartz to brilliantly colored Mozarkite. The best hunting grounds are found where nature or man has turned over the soil, bringing hidden gems … Read more
