Gem Hunting in Arkansas – Best Spots and Gems You Can Find
Gem hunting in Arkansas is very popular as the state is known for its rare gemstones such as diamonds, garnets, and quartz. In this guide, we will look at the best spots in Arkansas for gem hunting and the types of gems you can find there.
Arkansas is a state renowned for its natural beauty and abundant geological wonders. Also known as “The Natural State”, Arkansas is a gem enthusiast’s paradise boasting a diverse array of gemstones waiting to be unearthed.
The state gemstone of Arkansas is diamond. Apart from that shimmering gem, Arkansas is famous for its deposits of quartz, amethyst, and fluorite. The state also offers a plethora of gem hunting sites that you can explore to unearth these gems and much more.
How We Picked the Top Spots for Gem Hunting in Arkansas
In order to find the best spots in Arkansas for gem mining, we had to consider a lot of things. It can be tough to find the information we need to shortlist the best places. Here are a few things we took into consideration:
- Input from local gem hunting associations and groups.
- The safety of the mining location and the potential hazards.
- The accessibility of the mining spot.
- Private and public locations.
What Kind of Gems Can You Find in Arkansas
Arkansas is home to incredible caves, mountains, and hot springs. Over 50% of the state is covered by forests. Here are some of the gemstones and rocks you can find in Arkansas:
- Diamonds
- Quartz
- Garnet
- Amber
- Opal
- Azurite
- Smithsonite
- Galena
- Amethyst
- Epidote
- Hematite
- Fluorite
- Pyrite
- Wavellite
- Magnetite
Also, check out our guide on the worth of crystals and locations to find geodes in Arkansas.
Top Spots for Gem Hunting in Arkansas
Here are the best gem hunting sites in Arkansas, each offering unique experiences and gems.
Mount Ida
Located in the Ouachita Mountains, Mount Ida is known as the “Quartz Crystal Capital of the World.” This picturesque region is renowned for its abundance of high-quality quartz crystals, prized for their clarity and brilliance.
There are numerous dig sites and mines across Mount Ida that you can explore to uncover stunning crystals. Some of the mines present at Mount Ida are:
- Wegner Quartz Crystal Mines
- Dixie Crystal Mining Company
You can also take guided tours or opt for independent searching, equipped with proper tools such as shovels, buckets, and screens.
Crater of Diamonds State Park
Arguably one of the most famous gem hunting destinations in the world, Crater of Diamonds State Park beckons adventurers with the promise of finding genuine diamonds in their natural habitat.
The park is located near Murfreesboro and is home to the only diamond-producing site in the US that is open to public. You can explore over 37 acres of plowed field, where diamonds are scattered across the surface.
Make sure to bring your own tools or rent equipment from the park’s visitor center, including shovels, screens, and even sifting screens.
Prairie Creek
Located in the Ouachita National Forest, Prairie Creek is a hidden gem hunting site great for those seeking out semi-precious stones and quartz crystals. This secluded area is known for various minerals and gems that you can unearth such as:
- Quartz
- Amethyst
- Garnet
- Hematite
- Pyrite
- Epidote
- Peridot
You can explore the creek beds and surrounding areas for these gems. You can also find vibrant agates in the creek. The place may require a bit of hiking, but it is surely worth it.
Lake Catherine
Situated near Hot Springs, Lake Catherine State Park is known for its scenic beauty and gem hunting along its shores. You can embark on leisurely walks along the lake’s edge, keeping an eye out for colorful gemstones washed ashore by the gentle waves.
Lake Catherine is a great place for casual gem hunting in Arkansas with your family. Some of the gems and minerals found at Lake Catherine are:
- Fluorite
- Columbium Ore
- Uranium Ore
- Quartz
- Agates
Hot Springs National Park
Renowned for its therapeutic hot springs, Hot Springs National Park also offers a great opportunity for gem hunters. You can venture into the park’s wilderness areas, where quartz crystals and other semi-precious stones can be found embedded within the rocky landscape.
Hot Springs is a hotbed for mineral collectors. Some of the gems and minerals you can hope to find in the area are:
- Quartz
- Wavellite
- Fluorite
- Pyrite
- Amethyst
Pike County
Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Pike County is another hidden gem hunting spot in Arkansas. This rugged region boasts numerous dig sites and abandoned mines, where prospectors can search for quartz crystals, wavellite, and other sought-after specimens.
Whether you’re exploring old mine shafts or scouring rocky outcrops, Pike County promises a great adventure and hunt for gems. Some of the gems you can expect to discover in Pike County are:
- Diamonds
- Quartz
- Diamonds
Necessary Tools Required for Mining Gems in Arkansas
Before hunting for gems in Arkansas, make sure you have the required set of professional tools and equipment. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Shovels and Trowels: For digging into softer soil, you need a sturdy shovel or a trowel. It also helps clear away the debris on the surface.
- Buckets: As you uncover gems, you need buckets to place them. Make sure you have durable buckets for the job to make sure your gems remain undamaged.
- Picks and hammers: To split rocks, and extract gems, you need a pick with one pointed end, and the other flat that serves as a hammer.
- Magnifying glass: For a closer inspection of your specimen, you need a magnifying glass to reveal details that are not visible to the naked eye.
- Zip-lock bags: As you collect gems, you need clear plastic containers or bags to store them. It also allows you to see the gems without having to open the bag.
- First aid kit: Mining is a risky venture, so make sure to keep a first aid kit with you at all times so you can address accidents or injuries promptly.
Conclusion
These are the best spots for gem hunting in Arkansas. The state is a beacon for gem enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of gem hunting sites that offer a chance to uncover rare gems and minerals.
From the renowned fields of Crater of Diamonds State Park to the secluded Praire Creek, there are various spots that offer a unique gem hunting experience. So grab your kit, and embark on a gem hunting adventure across Arkansas. Happy hunting!
