{"id":3423,"date":"2021-05-26T20:16:50","date_gmt":"2021-05-27T01:16:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/?p=3423"},"modified":"2024-03-13T08:40:34","modified_gmt":"2024-03-13T13:40:34","slug":"tennessee-rockhounding-location-guide-map","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/tennessee-rockhounding-location-guide-map\/","title":{"rendered":"Tennessee Rockhounding Location Guide &#038; Map"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:74.444444444444%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:74.444444444444%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Tennessee is a great state for rockhounding, thanks in large part to the complicated geological history of the eastern portion of the state. The mountain ranges in the east contain a wide variety of minerals and correspondingly have a great many prospective rockhounding locations. In the alluvial river plains of western Tennessee it is fairly common to find quartz-family mineral specimens like agate, jasper, and petrified wood. Tennessee also presents a relatively rare opportunity to find freshwater pearls in the Tennessee River and its tributaries. Almost anywhere you find your self in the state there are likely to be several fun rockhounding destinations nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The best places to rockhound in Tennessee are the mountains of the Cumberland Plateau and central Tennessee, particularly Horse Mountain where unique agate specimens can be found. Other notable rockhounding sites are the Tennessee River for freshwater pearls and Cannon County for geodes.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-1 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table aligncenter is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e7f5fe\"><thead><tr><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">State Symbols<\/th><th class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\"><\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">State Mineral<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Agate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">State Rock<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Limestone<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">State Gemstone<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">River Pearl<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">State Fossil<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Pterotrigonia<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_U.S._state_minerals,_rocks,_stones_and_gemstones\" target=\"_blank\">Source<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"670\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3475\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-768x572.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"670\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20900%20670'%3E%3Crect%20width='900'%20height='670'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3475 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-768x572.jpg 768w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Agate<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>This article will dive deeper into the many great rockhounding sites across the state (along with maps), but I&rsquo;d like to highlight a few standouts here. <strong>The top 10 rockhounding sites for gems and minerals in Tennessee:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"block-eb9d0639-c6c2-4594-b7bb-31cf52e0f49a\">\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Cooper's+Gem+Mine\/@36.5078909,-82.3302751,197m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x885a84eea6b8f64b:0x5f6d18358933f7d3!8m2!3d36.5078353!4d-82.3298034\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cooper&rsquo;s Gem Mine<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Quartz, garnet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B023'09.4%22N+88%C2%B010'30.4%22W\/@35.2093664,-88.2806576,11z\/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887c54b7babdbc3b:0xc14769d4e2c7e942!2sHardin+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.1142443!4d-88.2461183!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.3859374!4d-88.1751234\" target=\"_blank\">Tennessee River<\/a><\/strong> &ndash; Freshwater Pearls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B037'42.1%22N+85%C2%B046'23.5%22W\/@35.628371,-85.7753907,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x886125302cef4039:0xfd436f061526127e!2sBen+Lomond+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d35.6339603!4d-85.7588695!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.6283715!4d-85.7732015\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ben Lomond Mountain<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Geodes, calcite, celestite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B059'59.6%22N+83%C2%B019'57.0%22W\/@35.999883,-83.3341209,643m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885bec388d68ab6b:0x54a97d3f8df5e070!2sDouglas+Lake!3b1!8m2!3d36.0079439!4d-83.3415334!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.9998831!4d-83.3324854\" target=\"_blank\">Douglas Lake<\/a><\/strong> &ndash; Double-terminated quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B030'40.9%22N+89%C2%B056'00.4%22W\/@35.511367,-89.9356217,866m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887f6153d4259a7b:0xc9ec9b0393482dcc!2sRichardson+Landing+Rd,+Tennessee+38023!3b1!8m2!3d35.4819101!4d-89.9333936!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.5113671!4d-89.9334333\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Richardson&rsquo;s Landing<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Lake Superior agates<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B011'38.6%22N+82%C2%B004'56.9%22W\/@36.19405,-82.0846707,861m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88508525b2daf7af:0x9183c1387cd86c0a!2sRoan+Mountain,+TN+37687!3b1!8m2!3d36.1962305!4d-82.0703999!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1940501!4d-82.0824819\" target=\"_blank\"><\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B006'36.9%22N+82%C2%B022'53.4%22W\/@36.110236,-82.3836757,860m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885a72211128d6e5:0x23cf542bff8997a3!2sUnaka+Range!3b1!8m2!3d36.1028874!4d-82.3631908!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1102362!4d-82.3814875\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Unaka Mountains<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Unakite, epidote, quartz<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Horse+Mountain\/@35.5125716,-86.4287485,3472m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x8863c2aaa1e21cb3:0x9a1f54d3da2355ea!8m2!3d35.5125724!4d-86.4199937\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Horse Mountain<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Several varieties of agate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B015'23.2%22N+83%C2%B011'08.2%22W\/@36.256454,-83.1867038,434m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885b98c84a8d59bb:0xd4de4d6594ca1a1a!2sHamblen+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.2054334!4d-83.2934086!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.2564537!4d-83.1855983\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Russellville<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Geodes in streams and gravels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B032'24.6%22N+84%C2%B005'23.1%22W\/@35.540168,-84.0917479,790m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885eab6968ed9299:0x5bdd876da9a31d80!2sMonroe+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.471793!4d-84.2278796!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.5401683!4d-84.0897511\" target=\"_blank\">Little Tennessee River<\/a> <\/strong>&ndash; Clear quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B024'39.4%22N+85%C2%B002'40.6%22W\/@36.410937,-85.0467997,858m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1schurch!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.4109373!4d-85.0446113\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Boatland<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Calcite, celestite, geodes, pyrite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Tennessee boasts quite a nice variety of rocks and minerals for rockhounds to collect. One of the most unique rocks to the state is the unakite found in mountains of the eastern part of the state. Unakite is a type of metamorphosed granite which has had some of its mineral components replaced by epidote, giving it a distinct and easily recognizable green color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> You can find many minerals and gemstones across the state of Tennessee including agate, freshwater pearls, quartz crystals, many carbonates like calcite and dolomite. Tennessee has a rather unique type of agate known as &lsquo;Paint Rock agate&rsquo; which is highly sought after for its distinct coloring and fortification-style banding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The most commonly found and collected rocks and minerals in Tennessee are:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-2 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<ul>\n<li>Agate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Freshwater pearls<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unakite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Calcite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Geodes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Jasper<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pyrite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430.jpg\" alt=\"Unakite\" class=\"wp-image-3513\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430-768x768.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"900\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430.jpg\" alt=\"Unakite\" class=\"wp-image-3513 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430-768x768.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_32835430.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Unakite<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>If you&rsquo;ve already found a rock and you&rsquo;re not sure what it is, I would highly recommend checking out my <a href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/practical-rock-identification\/\">Practical Rock Identification System<\/a>.<\/strong> This bundle of information includes a book, videos, and online tools. It is, simply put, the most comprehensive and easy-to-understand rock identification system you&rsquo;ll find anywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also read through my free <a href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/how-to-identify-your-rocks-full-guide-with-helpful-tools\/\"><strong>rock identification guide<\/strong><\/a> and <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/how-to-identify-minerals-a-helpful-guide-with-pictures\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>mineral identification guide<\/strong><\/a> which are filled with useful information and tools. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Through quite a bit of research and cross-referencing of available literature, I have compiled this list of some prospective locations in Tennessee which I would recommend to people looking to do some rockhounding. These are mostly comprised of old mining prospects, washes, streams, and historically known rock and mineral collecting sites. For additional reading, I&rsquo;d highly recommend these books you can find on Amazon:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns are-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-layout-3 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-vertically-aligned-center is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\" style=\"flex-basis:66.66%\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3dcnBu7\" target=\"_blank\">Roadside Geology of Tennessee<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/2RIPTV7\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Southeast Treasure Hunter&rsquo;s Gem &amp; Mineral Guide<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3faS5h6\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Earth Treasures: The Southeastern Quadrant<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3mY1LxH\" target=\"_blank\">Field Guide to Rocks and Minerals<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Please remember that rock collecting locations are constantly changing. Specimens may become depleted from other collectors, the location may have been built on or altered, locality information in literature may be inaccurate, and property ownership may have changed hands.  Joining up with a local rockhounding club for a group trip can often get you access to otherwise off-limits locations like privately owned mines and quarries. There are <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/www.rockhounds.com\/rockshop\/clubs\/tennessee.shtml\" target=\"_blank\">many rockhounding clubs in Massachusetts<\/a> so you can most likely find one you like nearby. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Though there are many locations listed here, this list is far from exhaustive. A location&rsquo;s listing here is not a guarantee of accuracy. <strong>Be safe, never go underground, and make sure to get permission from the landowner to search for and collect specimens.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re planning on heading to the field, <strong>make sure you have all the gear you&rsquo;ll need!<\/strong> To get started, you can <strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/best-rockhounding-gear-my-picks\/\" target=\"_blank\">check out my recommended gear page<\/a><\/strong> which contains my full reviews for <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/best-rockhounding-gear-my-picks\/rock-hammers-picks\/\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>every <\/strong><\/a><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/35OBHxJ\" target=\"_blank\">Geologist&rsquo;s <\/a><\/strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3nSlxcV\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>favorite rock hammer<\/strong><\/a> and the <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Osprey-Packs-Stratos-Backpack-Black\/dp\/B01IEX2TEO\/ref=as_li_ss_tl?dchild=1&amp;keywords=osprey+stratos+24&amp;qid=1602547901&amp;sr=8-1&amp;linkCode=sl1&amp;tag=rockhoundreso-20&amp;linkId=2199ac3fa66e04cc8dd311db17bf6a97&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>best hiking backpack I&rsquo;ve ever owned<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Rockhounding Sites in Tennessee<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><strong>Important Disclaimer: <\/strong>I have not been to these locations myself, and I do not know if they are currently open for collecting. Use this resource as a guide to get you started. Follow posted signage and always get permission from the landowner to collect.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><iframe loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/d\/embed?mid=19vxoMjaq7TtdXzmj6OMZven5NSUCKtk&amp;ehbc=2E312F&amp;noprof=1\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Western Tennessee Rockhounding Sites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Compared to the rest of the state, western Tennessee is a little lacking in rockhounding destinations. Still, there are plenty of places where aspiring collectors can search with a reasonable expectation of making some worthwhile finds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The highlight of western Tennessee is undoubtedly the freshwater river pearls which have the distinction of being the state&rsquo;s official gemstone. To find freshwater pearls in Tennessee, try digging in the sands and gravels of the Tennessee River and its larger tributaries. The mussels you find will need to be shucked, and inside you can find your beautiful reward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best rockhounding locations in western Tennessee is near Richardson&rsquo;s Landing on the Mississippi River. Try to find fresh dredge disposal sites or search in the gravels along the riverbank. You can often find agatized fossils and even the famed Lake Superior agates, carried down from the Great Lakes by the river&rsquo;s powerful current. Other notable rockhounding sites include the limestone exposures in Wayne County and the the area around Springfield where you can find many quality quartz-family gemstones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e7f5fe\"><thead><tr><th>Location<\/th><th>Rocks &amp; Minerals<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B023'09.4%22N+88%C2%B010'30.4%22W\/@35.2093664,-88.2806576,11z\/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887c54b7babdbc3b:0xc14769d4e2c7e942!2sHardin+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.1142443!4d-88.2461183!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.3859374!4d-88.1751234\" target=\"_blank\">Tennessee River &amp; tributarie<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B023'09.4%22N+88%C2%B010'30.4%22W\/@35.2093664,-88.2806576,11z\/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887c54b7babdbc3b:0xc14769d4e2c7e942!2sHardin+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.1142443!4d-88.2461183!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.3859374!4d-88.1751234\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">s<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B023'09.4%22N+88%C2%B010'30.4%22W\/@35.2093664,-88.2806576,11z\/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887c54b7babdbc3b:0xc14769d4e2c7e942!2sHardin+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.1142443!4d-88.2461183!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.3859374!4d-88.1751234\" target=\"_blank\">, in sands and gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Pearls (in freshwater mussels)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B016'40.3%22N+88%C2%B017'31.5%22W\/@35.277847,-88.2942807,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887c520ebb93a38f:0xe9e4a13e70036f6!2sCoffee+Landing+Rd,+Tennessee!3b1!8m2!3d35.2837708!4d-88.2973546!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.2778466!4d-88.2920921\" target=\"_blank\">Coffee Bluff, in sand<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B016'40.3%22N+88%C2%B017'31.5%22W\/@35.277847,-88.2942807,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887c520ebb93a38f:0xe9e4a13e70036f6!2sCoffee+Landing+Rd,+Tennessee!3b1!8m2!3d35.2837708!4d-88.2973546!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.2778466!4d-88.2920921\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">s<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B016'40.3%22N+88%C2%B017'31.5%22W\/@35.277847,-88.2942807,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887c520ebb93a38f:0xe9e4a13e70036f6!2sCoffee+Landing+Rd,+Tennessee!3b1!8m2!3d35.2837708!4d-88.2973546!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.2778466!4d-88.2920921\" target=\"_blank\"> of Tennessee River<\/a><\/td><td>Amber<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Indian+Creek+Mines\/@35.747539,-87.4704112,549m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m10!1m3!2m2!1smine!6e1!3m5!1s0x8863522f8d82f711:0x71f991765efed042!8m2!3d35.7475681!4d-87.4689033!15sCgRtaW5lkgEPbmF0dXJhbF9mZWF0dXJl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Centerville, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Cobalt, Nickel minerals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B013'53.5%22N+87%C2%B022'24.0%22W\/@35.231529,-87.3755137,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88632bbb2624ca13:0x221d125554758d0e!2sLawrence+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.2761735!4d-87.460397!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.2315287!4d-87.3733252\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lawrenceburg, area road cuts, outcrops, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Chert, Chalcedony, Geodes (calcite, quartz)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B031'01.9%22N+86%C2%B053'53.9%22W\/@36.517186,-86.9004927,855m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x886455cc20039a49:0xa0d4ffcd6b2acd08!2sRobertson+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.5250666!4d-86.8621827!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.5171865!4d-86.8983038\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Springfield, area stream gravels, road cuts, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz (gem-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B030'40.9%22N+89%C2%B056'00.4%22W\/@35.511367,-89.9356217,866m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887f6153d4259a7b:0xc9ec9b0393482dcc!2sRichardson+Landing+Rd,+Tennessee+38023!3b1!8m2!3d35.4819101!4d-89.9333936!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.5113671!4d-89.9334333\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Memphis, in gravels and dredges near Richardson&rsquo;s Landing<\/a><\/td><td>Agate (Lake Superior agate), Agatized fossils<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B019'10.4%22N+87%C2%B045'48.6%22W\/@35.319555,-87.7642898,313m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887cd936b9820dfd:0x7f286f4fd519bf8!2sWayne+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.282369!4d-87.7763333!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.3195548!4d-87.7635012\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wayne County, all countywide limestone exposures<\/a><\/td><td>Chert (gem-quality), Agatized fossils, Flint, Quartz crystals, etc.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Central Tennessee Rockhounding Sites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Central Tennessee is a great place to do some rockhounding. There are many old mines and quarries in the area that are historically known to produce many varieties of carbonate minerals like calcite, celestite, and dolomite as well as geodes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more accessible and generalized rockhounding there are many wide areas such as Horse Mountain, Beechgrove, and Cookeville where any collector can comb through stream gravels and rocky outcrops with the expectation of finding quartz-family gemstones like agate, jasper, and chalcedony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e7f5fe\"><thead><tr><th>Location<\/th><th>Rocks &amp; Minerals<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Horse+Mountain\/@35.5125716,-86.4287485,3472m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x8863c2aaa1e21cb3:0x9a1f54d3da2355ea!8m2!3d35.5125724!4d-86.4199937\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Horse Mountain<\/a><\/td><td>Agate (Horse Mountain agates)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Pannell+Ridge\/@35.530021,-86.386204,262m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x8863e7990b9b0d23:0x92638054663d0b83!8m2!3d35.5297946!4d-86.385549\">Pannell Ridge, area fields and creeks<\/a><\/td><td>Agatized coral<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B030'50.9%22N+86%C2%B023'09.1%22W\/@35.514145,-86.3868595,397m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1sphilippi+church!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.5141449!4d-86.3858582\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Philippi Church, general area<\/a><\/td><td>Agatized coral<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B027'18.1%22N+86%C2%B030'38.7%22W\/@35.455025,-86.5129397,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88639564578336e7:0xf50e42be44c8b058!2sSugar+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d35.4279142!4d-86.5097568!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.4550252!4d-86.5107509\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sugar Creek<\/a><\/td><td>Agatized coral<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B047'35.9%22N+85%C2%B059'22.7%22W\/@35.8073271,-86.0745384,20215m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88614b2465ae8e95:0x6b9b027c182524c6!2sCannon+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.8070317!4d-86.0529604!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.7932971!4d-85.9896317\" target=\"_blank\">Woodbury, area 5 mi. ESE<\/a><\/td><td>Geodes<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B049'47.2%22N+86%C2%B003'32.5%22W\/@35.829771,-86.0603359,523m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88614b2465ae8e95:0x6b9b027c182524c6!2sCannon+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.8070317!4d-86.0529604!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.8297712!4d-86.0590126\" target=\"_blank\">Cannon County, all regional gravels, streams, fields<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Fluorite, Geodes, Goethite, Limonite, Pyrite, Celestite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B036'29.6%22N+86%C2%B013'53.5%22W\/@35.608213,-86.2337217,867m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8861662b3aef90f9:0xb326cb7d0f67570d!2sCoffee+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.4576849!4d-86.0529604!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.608213!4d-86.2315329\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Beechgrove, area to S<\/a><\/td><td>Chalcedony (nodules)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B054'39.3%22N+84%C2%B052'08.6%22W\/@35.910921,-84.8712357,864m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x886750c6efe64361:0x4f88757102b59521!2sCrossville,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.9489566!4d-85.0269014!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.9109208!4d-84.8690472\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Crab Orchard, in area quarries<\/a><\/td><td>Sandstone (&lsquo;Crab Orchard Stone&rsquo;, polishable)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B024'39.4%22N+85%C2%B002'40.6%22W\/@36.410937,-85.0467997,858m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1schurch!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.4109373!4d-85.0446113\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Boatland, area creeks<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Geodes, Marcasite, Pyrite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B022'47.2%22N+84%C2%B059'10.1%22W\/@36.379779,-84.9879509,709m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88677c58cee43773:0x9c550fc4b1b74c45!2sBuffalo+Cove!3b1!8m2!3d36.3770128!4d-84.9968954!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.3797786!4d-84.9861429\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Carpenter Hollow and Buffalo Cove, area quarries<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Geodes, Marcasite, Pyrite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Hornville+Mine\/@35.039053,-85.2530765,814m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x886060ca10702a81:0x34665eb51fd19ed5!8m2!3d35.0389613!4d-85.2507895!15sCgRtaW5lkgEPbmF0dXJhbF9mZWF0dXJl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Missionary Ridge, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Bauxite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B008'49.1%22N+85%C2%B035'48.6%22W\/@35.146979,-85.5990087,870m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8860ffc3697b70dd:0xdf84616a33837811!2sMarion+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.0928512!4d-85.643487!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.1469794!4d-85.5968197\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Marion County, all area pits, quarries, stream gravels, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Barite, Fluorite, Galena, Pyrite, Selenite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B012'31.8%22N+85%C2%B049'09.0%22W\/@35.208836,-85.8213537,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8861014122516509:0xca1f0644e5b9a1a0!2sMonteagle,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.2400807!4d-85.8396979!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.2088355!4d-85.8191648\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Monteagle, in road cuts to S<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite onyx<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B027'03.5%22N+85%C2%B021'20.5%22W\/@36.450963,-85.3578747,856m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88676f1e96f55daf:0xd7416e8d11356f72!2sOverton+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.3880346!4d-85.3136218!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.4509633!4d-85.3556864\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Livingston, quarries to NW<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Geodes, Marcasite, Pyrite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B008'08.8%22N+85%C2%B025'43.8%22W\/@36.135772,-85.4310107,859m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1357719!4d-85.4288218\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cookeville, in stream gravels to E<\/a><\/td><td>Agate, Jasper<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B010'41.2%22N+85%C2%B017'15.7%22W\/@36.178118,-85.2885145,321m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1781179!4d-85.2876969\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Monterey, 2 mi. N in outcrops and mine dumps<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Fluorite, Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B037'42.1%22N+85%C2%B046'23.5%22W\/@35.628371,-85.7753907,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x886125302cef4039:0xfd436f061526127e!2sBen+Lomond+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d35.6339603!4d-85.7588695!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.6283715!4d-85.7732015\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ben Lomond Mountain, W side<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Geodes, Marcasite, Pyrite, etc.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Eastern Tennessee Rockhounding Sites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Eastern Tennessee is, without a doubt, the best part of the state for rockhounding. The southern end of the Appalachian Mountains and the large National Forests combine to offer a great region for prospective rockhounding sites.  You will, of course, want to steer clear of any National Park land since absolutely no collecting is allowed there (National Forests <em>do<\/em>, though).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many old mines and quarries in the area which yield specimens of many minerals including sphalerite, pyrite, garnet, celestite, and smithsonite. If you&rsquo;re collecting in the area you should try to get your hands on some unakite which is fairly unique to the region. Unakite is a metamorphosed granite in which some minerals have been replaced by epidote, giving portions of the rock an attractive forest green color.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-background\" style=\"background-color:#e7f5fe\"><thead><tr><th>Location<\/th><th>Rocks &amp; Minerals<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Craig+Quarry\/@35.7759917,-84.1079803,228m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1squarry!3m5!1s0x885c2803f86a5795:0xa10c9b98017978e2!8m2!3d35.7764693!4d-84.1071328!15sCgZxdWFycnmSAQ9uYXR1cmFsX2ZlYXR1cmU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Friendsville, area quarries<\/a><\/td><td>Marble<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B038'22.3%22N+83%C2%B058'00.6%22W\/@35.639536,-83.9690217,867m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885e98f1088b641d:0x21128ca23af78e5c!2sMontvale+Springs,+TN+37803!3b1!8m2!3d35.6411949!4d-83.9604586!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.6395362!4d-83.9668331\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Montvale Springs, in area placers<\/a><\/td><td>Gold<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B039'58.2%22N+83%C2%B045'06.7%22W\/@35.666176,-83.7539519,829m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885ea50808c4e903:0xaaddcab824c22fb8!2sTownsend,+TN+37882!3b1!8m2!3d35.6753657!4d-83.7557281!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.6661761!4d-83.7518588\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Townsend, area road cuts and stream gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Epidote<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Black+Fox+Mine\/@35.1125624,-84.9228121,617m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x885e2ab5b740cd27:0xf77130824fadb0d8!8m2!3d35.112574!4d-84.9213351!15sCgRtaW5lkgEPbmF0dXJhbF9mZWF0dXJl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cleveland, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Sphalerite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Lead+Mine+Ridge\/@35.0869117,-84.9133391,1221m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x885fd53ddd640c91:0x54e3b45bf4ba1c85!8m2!3d35.0878525!4d-84.9135567!15sCgRtaW5lkgEFcmlkZ2U\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Blue Springs, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Galena<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B033'04.4%22N+84%C2%B004'09.2%22W\/@36.551214,-84.0711777,762m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885cf98daa65b2e7:0x2fd7e7ea3294ddc3!2sJellico,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.5878591!4d-84.1268741!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.5512141!4d-84.0692317\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Jellico, in road cuts to S<\/a><\/td><td>Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B011'38.6%22N+82%C2%B004'56.9%22W\/@36.19405,-82.0846707,861m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88508525b2daf7af:0x9183c1387cd86c0a!2sRoan+Mountain,+TN+37687!3b1!8m2!3d36.1962305!4d-82.0703999!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1940501!4d-82.0824819\" target=\"_blank\">Roan Mountain, area exposures<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B011'38.6%22N+82%C2%B004'56.9%22W\/@36.19405,-82.0846707,861m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88508525b2daf7af:0x9183c1387cd86c0a!2sRoan+Mountain,+TN+37687!3b1!8m2!3d36.1962305!4d-82.0703999!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1940501!4d-82.0824819\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B011'38.6%22N+82%C2%B004'56.9%22W\/@36.19405,-82.0846707,861m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88508525b2daf7af:0x9183c1387cd86c0a!2sRoan+Mountain,+TN+37687!3b1!8m2!3d36.1962305!4d-82.0703999!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1940501!4d-82.0824819\" target=\"_blank\">and stream gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B022'23.4%22N+82%C2%B009'17.7%22W\/@36.373179,-82.1571042,858m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885081c732d2b7f5:0x6a2810bba533ac24!2sStony+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d36.3735526!4d-82.153005!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.3731792!4d-82.154918\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stony Creek, a mine in black shale<\/a><\/td><td>Pyrite, Pyrolusite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Straight+Creek+Mines\/@36.389165,-83.6448407,859m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x885c7efbaaf3c911:0x1907de135363f43a!8m2!3d36.3892493!4d-83.6426865!15sCgRtaW5lkgEPbmF0dXJhbF9mZWF0dXJl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Straight Creek Mines<\/a><\/td><td>Galena, Sphalerite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B048'42.2%22N+83%C2%B002'45.9%22W\/@35.811714,-83.0482747,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885bd0ceec31910b:0x87364a89eb79ba6d!2sRag+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d35.8087106!4d-83.0504254!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.8117137!4d-83.0460857\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rag Mountain, area<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B054'33.9%22N+83%C2%B002'42.6%22W\/@35.909414,-83.0473186,855m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885bce5b0335cacb:0x834d689ea8c42abb!2sDel+Rio,+TN+37727!3b1!8m2!3d35.9206692!4d-83.0243425!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.9094135!4d-83.0451518\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Del Rio, area stream gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B049'57.8%22N+83%C2%B007'22.6%22W\/@35.832734,-83.1251217,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885bdbb4bdb68b69:0xf6bb459c68abd5bd!2sMine+Ridge!3b1!8m2!3d35.8320427!4d-83.1232064!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.8327345!4d-83.122933\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mine Ridge, in prospects<\/a><\/td><td>Copper, Iron, Lead, and Zinc minerals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Stone+Mine\/@35.936732,-83.0268673,234m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x885bcefa110cf52b:0xbc42cc812b111247!8m2!3d35.9367668!4d-83.0262616!15sCgRtaW5lkgEPbmF0dXJhbF9mZWF0dXJl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Del Rio, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Barite, Calcite, Celestite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B050'20.5%22N+83%C2%B005'44.8%22W\/@35.839026,-83.0979607,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1sbig+creek!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.8390264!4d-83.0957722\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Big Creek, in gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz (light green, gemstone)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Berkley+Prospect\/@36.179492,-82.8658702,303m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m10!1m3!2m2!1smine!6e1!3m5!1s0x885a4cffeb95f097:0xa79ecf29ea9db1c6!8m2!3d36.1795456!4d-82.8651544!15sCgRtaW5lkgEPbmF0dXJhbF9mZWF0dXJl\" target=\"_blank\">Greeneville, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Sphalerite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B025'28.2%22N+82%C2%B055'00.0%22W\/@36.424495,-82.9188627,856m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885b00668ca7042f:0x77e2fbbc15989e85!2sHawkins+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.4445545!4d-82.9501558!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.4244946!4d-82.9166739\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Greene, Hawkins &amp; Sullivan Counties, all area mines, quarries, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite crystals, Celestite, Dolomite crystals, Fluorite, Jasper (golden), Pyrite, Quartz crystals, Barite, Jasper, Agate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B015'23.2%22N+83%C2%B011'08.2%22W\/@36.256454,-83.1867038,434m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885b98c84a8d59bb:0xd4de4d6594ca1a1a!2sHamblen+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.2054334!4d-83.2934086!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.2564537!4d-83.1855983\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Russellville, area gravels, road cuts, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Geodes (quartz geodes)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B006'38.3%22N+83%C2%B028'37.3%22W\/@36.110641,-83.4792247,860m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885b8cfa8a0835cb:0x2350ab18e6c06aeb!2sMossy+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d36.1119616!4d-83.4830238!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1106413!4d-83.4770363\" target=\"_blank\">Mossy Creek, i<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B006'38.3%22N+83%C2%B028'37.3%22W\/@36.110641,-83.4792247,860m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885b8cfa8a0835cb:0x2350ab18e6c06aeb!2sMossy+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d36.1119616!4d-83.4830238!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1106413!4d-83.4770363\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">n<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B006'38.3%22N+83%C2%B028'37.3%22W\/@36.110641,-83.4792247,860m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885b8cfa8a0835cb:0x2350ab18e6c06aeb!2sMossy+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d36.1119616!4d-83.4830238!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1106413!4d-83.4770363\" target=\"_blank\"> area dolomite exposures<\/a><\/td><td>Calamine, Smithsonite, Sphalerite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B006'00.5%22N+83%C2%B032'08.5%22W\/@36.100132,-83.53679,429m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.100132!4d-83.5356983\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Market, many area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Smithsonite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B003'55.1%22N+83%C2%B044'05.1%22W\/@36.06531,-83.7369497,860m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.0653098!4d-83.7347611\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mascot, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Smithsonite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B032'24.6%22N+84%C2%B005'23.1%22W\/@35.540168,-84.0917479,790m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885eab6968ed9299:0x5bdd876da9a31d80!2sMonroe+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.471793!4d-84.2278796!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.5401683!4d-84.0897511\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Little Tennessee River, in red clays<\/a><\/td><td>Rock crystal (quartz crystals), <\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B036'20.8%22N+84%C2%B023'11.9%22W\/@35.605776,-84.3880399,550m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.6057759!4d-84.386649\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sweetwater, area mines and quarries<\/a><\/td><td>Barite, Fluorite, Sphalerite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B000'16.5%22N+84%C2%B023'57.3%22W\/@35.004594,-84.4005833,527m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885fb2c108276a47:0x64f2b60e6622aebb!2sCopperhill,+TN+37317!3b1!8m2!3d34.9889692!4d-84.3707561!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.0045939!4d-84.3992591\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Copperhill, area stream gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Azurite, Chalcopyrite, Garnet, Gold, Pyrite, Malachite, Quartz crystals, Staurolite, Chalcocite, Cuprite, Galena, Graphite, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B001'57.2%22N+84%C2%B021'55.8%22W\/@35.032547,-84.3668067,517m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.0325466!4d-84.3655082\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ducktown, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Azurite, Chalcopyrite, Garnet, Gold, Pyrite, Malachite, Quartz crystals, Staurolite, Chalcocite, Cuprite, Galena, Graphite, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B051'18.7%22N+86%C2%B022'13.4%22W\/@35.855191,-86.3725667,862m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8863f9aaf6877b63:0xc95a2a9fded2cd49!2sRutherford+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.7724263!4d-86.3376761!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.8551914!4d-86.3703779\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Murfreesboro, in road cuts<\/a><\/td><td>Chert, Agate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B041'48.2%22N+83%C2%B030'29.2%22W\/@35.696709,-83.5102847,864m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885bfe1555b23b4b:0x3dad86074c448ba!2sSevier+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.8271682!4d-83.5070203!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.696709!4d-83.5080958\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Gatlinburg, area streams and gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz, gemstones<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B006'36.9%22N+82%C2%B022'53.4%22W\/@36.110236,-82.3836757,860m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885a72211128d6e5:0x23cf542bff8997a3!2sUnaka+Range!3b1!8m2!3d36.1028874!4d-82.3631908!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1102362!4d-82.3814875\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Unaka Mountains, general area<\/a><\/td><td>Epidote, Quartz, Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B052'19.8%22N+83%C2%B024'56.1%22W\/@35.87217,-83.4177757,862m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885bfad4cc556431:0x716038bddf4b8e26!2sNuns+Cove!3b1!8m2!3d35.8695369!4d-83.42183!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.8721698!4d-83.4155871\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Nun&rsquo;s Cove, many area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Chert, Barite, Sphalerite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B032'29.7%22N+82%C2%B007'27.3%22W\/@36.541575,-82.1258104,610m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885a9d2aeeeb894d:0x3f57f2fedad88756!2sBristol,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.5951059!4d-82.1887444!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.5415749!4d-82.1242483\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bristol, in Hwy. 421 road cut<\/a><\/td><td>Onyx<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B033'04.4%22N+82%C2%B028'35.1%22W\/@36.551223,-82.4786017,855m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1sroad+cut!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.5512231!4d-82.4764131\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Kingsport, area road cuts<\/a><\/td><td>Limestone minerals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B015'37.9%22N+82%C2%B019'13.9%22W\/@36.26052,-82.3210849,216m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885a6f902adf5451:0xb6a3af2b019ff8ed!2sUnicoi+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.073032!4d-82.5185837!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.2605204!4d-82.3205335\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Limestone quarries in N Unicoi County<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Davenport+Mine\/@36.151845,-82.4916401,726m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x885a692425a10551:0xb89c197097ad2943!8m2!3d36.1517737!4d-82.4895868!15sCgRtaW5lkgEPbmF0dXJhbF9mZWF0dXJl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bumpus Cove mining district, many mines<\/a><\/td><td>Anglesite, Chalcopyrite, Cerussite, Hematite, Galena, Sphalerite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B000'59.1%22N+82%C2%B032'52.5%22W\/@36.016426,-82.5494696,617m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885a155c42055acd:0x4ccc85821df2c98!2sFlag+Pond,+TN+37657!3b1!8m2!3d36.015385!4d-82.5570836!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.0164258!4d-82.5479022\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Flag Pond, road cut to E<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/New+Prospect+Mine\/@36.398151,-83.8420323,253m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x885c63d0b8199e63:0xcf68a7af78f4a3ba!8m2!3d36.3981351!4d-83.8413043\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">New Prospect Mine &amp; other area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Calamine, Smithsonite, Sphalerite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B010'06.4%22N+82%C2%B028'30.0%22W\/@36.168435,-82.4771787,859m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885a6f4137a59d4f:0xa1c364cab68c985!2sEmbreeville,+TN+37650!3b1!8m2!3d36.1812182!4d-82.4584753!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1684349!4d-82.4749901\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bumpus Cove W of Embreeville<\/a><\/td><td>Jasper (dark with blue areas)<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where to Find Gemstones in Tennessee<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There is nothing quite like uncovering a quartz crystal with a perfect termination or finding a beautiful agate that has been waiting in a river bank for you to come along and take it home. Gemstones are some of the most enjoyable specimens that rockhounds can find, but it&rsquo;s not always easy to know where to look. Luckily, there are plenty of places to search for gemstones in Tennessee where collectors can usually score some great finds.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344.jpg\" alt=\"Quartz\" class=\"wp-image-2232\" style=\"width:400px;height:-275px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344.jpg\" alt=\"Quartz\" class=\"wp-image-2232 lazyload\" style=\"width:400px;height:-275px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_124284344.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Quartz<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p><strong>The best places to find gemstones in Tennessee are:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B059'59.6%22N+83%C2%B019'57.0%22W\/@35.999883,-83.3341209,643m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885bec388d68ab6b:0x54a97d3f8df5e070!2sDouglas+Lake!3b1!8m2!3d36.0079439!4d-83.3415334!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.9998831!4d-83.3324854\" target=\"_blank\">Douglas Lake<\/a><\/strong> &ndash; Double-terminated quartz crystals, locally known as &lsquo;Douglas Diamonds&rsquo;, can be found in the sands of Douglas Lake. For the best chance of success, search when the lake levels are low.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B023'09.4%22N+88%C2%B010'30.4%22W\/@35.2093664,-88.2806576,11z\/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887c54b7babdbc3b:0xc14769d4e2c7e942!2sHardin+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.1142443!4d-88.2461183!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.3859374!4d-88.1751234\" target=\"_blank\">Tennessee River<\/a><\/strong> &ndash; The gravels and sands of the Tennessee River and its tributaries are a great place to dig for mussels containing beautiful freshwater pearls.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Cooper's+Gem+Mine\/@36.5078909,-82.3302751,197m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x885a84eea6b8f64b:0x5f6d18358933f7d3!8m2!3d36.5078353!4d-82.3298034\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cooper&rsquo;s Gem Mine<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Just south of Blountville, this family-friendly public mine allows you to dig for a variety of gemstones like quartz and garnets for a small fee.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B031'01.9%22N+86%C2%B053'53.9%22W\/@36.517186,-86.9004927,855m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x886455cc20039a49:0xa0d4ffcd6b2acd08!2sRobertson+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.5250666!4d-86.8621827!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.5171865!4d-86.8983038\" target=\"_blank\">Springfield<\/a> <\/strong>&ndash; The entire area surrounding the town of Springfield offers a chance to find gem-quality quartz crystals. Try searching in places like stream gravels and the talus at the base of road cuts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Horse+Mountain\/@35.5125716,-86.4287485,3472m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x8863c2aaa1e21cb3:0x9a1f54d3da2355ea!8m2!3d35.5125724!4d-86.4199937\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Horse Mountain<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; This area is one of the best locations in the state to find agates. The variety found here is locally known as &lsquo;Horse Mountain agate&rsquo; or, more generally, &lsquo;Iris agate&rsquo;.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B037'42.1%22N+85%C2%B046'23.5%22W\/@35.628371,-85.7753907,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x886125302cef4039:0xfd436f061526127e!2sBen+Lomond+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d35.6339603!4d-85.7588695!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.6283715!4d-85.7732015\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ben Lomond Mountain<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; The west side of Ben Lomond Mountain is a great place to search for quite a few gemstones including calcite, celestite, dolomite, marcasite, and pyrite.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B050'20.5%22N+83%C2%B005'44.8%22W\/@35.839026,-83.0979607,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1sbig+creek!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.8390264!4d-83.0957722\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Big Creek<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; The gravels of Big Creek near Bluffton are one of very few places I&rsquo;ve encountered where you can find green quartz crystals &ndash; some of which are gem-quality.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B032'24.6%22N+84%C2%B005'23.1%22W\/@35.540168,-84.0917479,790m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885eab6968ed9299:0x5bdd876da9a31d80!2sMonroe+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.471793!4d-84.2278796!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.5401683!4d-84.0897511\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Little Tennessee River<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; If you&rsquo;re searching for rock crystal (nice clear quartz crystals) this is the place for you. Try searching in the red clays on the riverbanks.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B041'48.2%22N+83%C2%B030'29.2%22W\/@35.696709,-83.5102847,864m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885bfe1555b23b4b:0x3dad86074c448ba!2sSevier+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.8271682!4d-83.5070203!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.696709!4d-83.5080958\" target=\"_blank\">Gatlinburg<\/a> <\/strong>&ndash; The entire area surrounding the town of Gatlinburg makes for great rockhounding with the stream gravels turning up quartz crystals and other gemstones.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B000'16.5%22N+84%C2%B023'57.3%22W\/@35.004594,-84.4005833,527m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885fb2c108276a47:0x64f2b60e6622aebb!2sCopperhill,+TN+37317!3b1!8m2!3d34.9889692!4d-84.3707561!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.0045939!4d-84.3992591\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Copperhill<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Stream gravels around the town of Copperhill are another fantastic place to search for gemstones of many types including azurite, garnet, pyrite, quartz, and staurolite.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where to Find Geodes in Tennessee<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Geodes are some of the most sought-after rocks regardless of location, and Tennessee is no exception. While Tennessee isn&rsquo;t particularly well known for its geodes, there are still plenty of places where you can search and have a reasonable chance of finding your own. These geodes can contain one or more of several minerals including quartz, amethyst, calcite, or chalcedony.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\">\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Not sure if the rock you&rsquo;ve found is a geode? <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-admin\/post.php?post=965&amp;action=edit\" target=\"_blank\">Check out my article about how to identify a geode<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The best places to find geodes in Tennessee:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B013'53.5%22N+87%C2%B022'24.0%22W\/@35.231529,-87.3755137,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88632bbb2624ca13:0x221d125554758d0e!2sLawrence+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.2761735!4d-87.460397!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.2315287!4d-87.3733252\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Lawrenceburg<\/strong><\/a>, in area road cuts and outcrops<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B047'35.9%22N+85%C2%B059'22.7%22W\/@35.8073271,-86.0745384,20215m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88614b2465ae8e95:0x6b9b027c182524c6!2sCannon+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.8070317!4d-86.0529604!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.7932971!4d-85.9896317\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Woodbury<\/strong><\/a>, in the area 5 miles to the southeast<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B049'47.2%22N+86%C2%B003'32.5%22W\/@35.829771,-86.0603359,523m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88614b2465ae8e95:0x6b9b027c182524c6!2sCannon+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d35.8070317!4d-86.0529604!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.8297712!4d-86.0590126\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cannon County<\/strong><\/a>, in gravels, streams, and fields<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B024'39.4%22N+85%C2%B002'40.6%22W\/@36.410937,-85.0467997,858m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1schurch!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.4109373!4d-85.0446113\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Boatland<\/strong><\/a>, in area creeks<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B037'42.1%22N+85%C2%B046'23.5%22W\/@35.628371,-85.7753907,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x886125302cef4039:0xfd436f061526127e!2sBen+Lomond+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d35.6339603!4d-85.7588695!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.6283715!4d-85.7732015\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ben Lomond Mountain<\/strong><\/a>, on the west side<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B015'23.2%22N+83%C2%B011'08.2%22W\/@36.256454,-83.1867038,434m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885b98c84a8d59bb:0xd4de4d6594ca1a1a!2sHamblen+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.2054334!4d-83.2934086!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.2564537!4d-83.1855983\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Russellville<\/strong><\/a>, in gravels, streams, and road cuts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B022'47.2%22N+84%C2%B059'10.1%22W\/@36.379779,-84.9879509,709m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88677c58cee43773:0x9c550fc4b1b74c45!2sBuffalo+Cove!3b1!8m2!3d36.3770128!4d-84.9968954!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.3797786!4d-84.9861429\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Carpenter Hollow and Buffalo Cove<\/strong><\/a>, in quarries<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B027'03.5%22N+85%C2%B021'20.5%22W\/@36.450963,-85.3578747,856m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88676f1e96f55daf:0xd7416e8d11356f72!2sOverton+County,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.3880346!4d-85.3136218!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.4509633!4d-85.3556864\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Livingston<\/strong><\/a>, in quarries northwest of town<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where to Find Agates in Tennessee<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"670\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3475\" style=\"width:400px;height:-323px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-768x572.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"670\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3475 lazyload\" style=\"width:400px;height:-323px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-300x223.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-768x572.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Agate<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Agates are some of the most beautiful and varied rocks collected by rockhounds, and the varieties found in Tennessee are a testament to that. The most famous and desirable type of agate collected in Tennessee is Paint Rock Agate which is usually shades of red, orange, and yellow and often displays fortification banding. Paint Rock Agate is most commonly found in southern Tennessee near the Alabama border.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote\"><p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Check out my <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/how-to-tumble-rocks-get-great-results-every-time\/\">Complete Rock Tumbling Guide<\/a><\/strong> to make your rocks and gemstones really shine!<\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p>There are several other varieties of agate found in Tennessee but aside from Paint Rock agates the most unique type is known as Horse Mountain agate. This variety is, unsurprisingly, found in the area surrounding Horse Mountain which happens to be one of the best places in the entire state to find agates of any kind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><strong>The best places to find agates in Tennessee:<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/35%C2%B030'40.9%22N+89%C2%B056'00.4%22W\/@35.511367,-89.9356217,866m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x887f6153d4259a7b:0xc9ec9b0393482dcc!2sRichardson+Landing+Rd,+Tennessee+38023!3b1!8m2!3d35.4819101!4d-89.9333936!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d35.5113671!4d-89.9334333\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Memphis<\/strong><\/a>, in gravels near Richardson&rsquo;s Landing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Horse+Mountain\/@35.5125716,-86.4287485,3472m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x8863c2aaa1e21cb3:0x9a1f54d3da2355ea!8m2!3d35.5125724!4d-86.4199937\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Horse Mountain<\/strong><\/a>, the entire surrounding area<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B008'08.8%22N+85%C2%B025'43.8%22W\/@36.135772,-85.4310107,859m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.1357719!4d-85.4288218\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Cookeville<\/strong><\/a>, in stream gravels to the east<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B033'04.4%22N+84%C2%B004'09.2%22W\/@36.551214,-84.0711777,762m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885cf98daa65b2e7:0x2fd7e7ea3294ddc3!2sJellico,+TN!3b1!8m2!3d36.5878591!4d-84.1268741!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.5512141!4d-84.0692317\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Jellico<\/strong><\/a>, in road cuts south of town<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Greene+County,+TN\/@36.1699936,-83.1551241,109959m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x885a4d0653825fd9:0xac3bab6e1958a226!8m2!3d36.1347943!4d-82.820974\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Green County<\/strong><\/a>, in area exposures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Hawkins+County,+TN\/@36.437196,-82.9197677,17z\/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x885b00668ca7042f:0x77e2fbbc15989e85!8m2!3d36.4445545!4d-82.9501558\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Hawkins County<\/strong><\/a>, in area exposures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Sullivan+County,+TN\/@36.5040764,-82.4045433,11z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x885a831b91e35b91:0x61496590ca203219!8m2!3d36.4933147!4d-82.345189\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Sullivan County<\/strong><\/a>, in area exposures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tennessee Rockhounding Laws &amp; Regulations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most common questions rockhounds have is whether or not they are allowed to collect at a certain location. <strong>It is the responsibility of each rockhound to obtain permission from a landowner to search and\/or collect on a piece of property. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The ownership and status of land can and does change frequently, making it impossible to document accurate information on this page. However, I have compiled a list of resources here so that you may investigate and obtain permission for any locations (found here or elsewhere) for yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Public Land Resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>I have written entire articles which cover the rockhounding laws and regulations for nearly every type of public land you can think of. I encourage you to check them out if you are curious about the legalities of rock and mineral collecting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/rock-collecting-on-public-land-laws-rules-and-etiquette\/\" target=\"_blank\">Rockhounding on Public Land: Laws and Regulations<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/can-you-collect-rocks-in-state-parks-all-50-states-answered\/\" target=\"_blank\">Can You Collect Rocks in State Parks? All 50 States Answered<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To determine what type of public land a particular location is on, I would recommend starting with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tn.gov\/twra\/gis-maps\/wildlife-management-area--wma--maps.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Massachusetts&rsquo; Public Lands Maps<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.mass.gov\/how-to\/masswildlife-lands-viewer\" target=\"_blank\">.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Private Land Resources<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As with most states, each county in Tennesee will have records of who owns each piece of property. Tennessee makes it uniquely easy relative to most states to find who owns a piece of land by way of <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/tnmap.tn.gov\/assessment\/\" target=\"_blank\">their official interactive property map<\/a>. You can also usually get the landowner&rsquo;s name and address by visiting the county records office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sources &amp; Further Reading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The locations and information contained in this article are primarily derived from academic papers, online resources, and other outside sources. If you would like to read some of the source material for yourself I have listed them below. The majority of these locations are my interpretation of Robert Beste&rsquo;s <em>A Location Guide for Rock Hounds in the United States<\/em>. Other sources include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/mindat.com\" target=\"_blank\">mindat.com<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tn.gov\/environment.html\" target=\"_blank\">Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.tn.gov\/environment\/program-areas\/tennessee-geological-survey.html\" target=\"_blank\">Tennessee Geological Survey<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"http:\/\/www.geo.umass.edu\/stategeologist\/Gleba_Mass_Fossil-Min_Localities.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Tennessee Mineral Locality Index<\/em>, Paris<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Tennessee is a great state for rockhounding, thanks in large part to the complicated geological history of the eastern portion of the state. The mountain ranges in the east contain a wide variety of minerals and correspondingly have a great many prospective rockhounding locations. In the alluvial river plains of western Tennessee it is fairly &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3476,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","footnotes":"","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false},"categories":[19],"tags":[],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153-300x224.jpg",300,224,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"large":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"post-thumbnail":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"mv_trellis_1x1":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"mv_trellis_3x4":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"mv_trellis_3x4_high_res":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"mv_trellis_3x4_med_res":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",360,268,false],"mv_trellis_3x4_low_res":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",240,179,false],"mv_trellis_4x3":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"mv_trellis_16x9":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"mv_trellis_srcset-960":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"mv_trellis_srcset-1080":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false],"1200x1200":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_9953153.jpg",400,298,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Mike Rhea","author_link":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/author\/mikerhea22gmail-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"Tennessee is a great state for rockhounding, thanks in large part to the complicated geological history of the eastern portion of the state. The mountain ranges in the east contain a wide variety of minerals and correspondingly have a great many prospective rockhounding locations. In the alluvial river plains of western Tennessee it is fairly&hellip;","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3423"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3423"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3423\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7255,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3423\/revisions\/7255"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3476"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3423"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3423"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3423"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}