Table of Contents

A guidebook for traveling rockhounds or anyone with an interest in gems, rocks or minerals exploring hidden treasures across the United States. Easy-to-use listings on “fee dig” mining, museum exhibits and more, with information on everything from safety kits to the location of the nearest restrooms, will help make every trip a success.

Updated 6th edition with new sites & museums! Learn Where & How to Dig, Pan and Mine Your Own Gems & Minerals

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Arizona California Colorado Hawaii Kansas Nevada New Mexico Oklahoma Texas Utah

Whether you’re digging for the first time or are an experienced rockhound or “prospector,” with a simple rock hammer and a little luck, you too can strike it rich … or at the very least, have fun trying.

This guide offers you easy-to-use information on the ins and outs of “fee dig” mining, complete with locations, costs, tips on technique, entertaining legends and important information on everything from safety kits to the location of the nearest restrooms.

Included are resources for use in identifying your finds, exploring the lapidary arts, and further pursuing an exciting and possibly profitable hobby.Equipment and Clothing: What you need and where to find it (or how to make it yourself). Mining Techniques: Step-by-step instructions on panning for gold, sluicing for gems and other methods.Gem and Mineral Sites: Directions and maps, hours, fees and equipment needed. Also includes info on guide services, local camping facilities and more.Museums and Mine Tours: Where to visit commercial and historical mines, as well as museums with exhibits of gems and minerals (for help in learning what to look for). Special Events and Tourist Information: Listings of regional events involving gems and minerals, and sources of general travel and tourism information for every state.Other Features: Where to find your birthstone, your anniversary stone or your zodiac stone; Index by State; Index by Gem/Mineral; U.S. State Gems & Minerals Chart; and more!