{"id":3685,"date":"2021-08-29T14:44:04","date_gmt":"2021-08-29T19:44:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/?p=3685"},"modified":"2024-02-22T06:30:33","modified_gmt":"2024-02-22T12:30:33","slug":"virginia-rockhounding-location-guide-map","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/virginia-rockhounding-location-guide-map\/","title":{"rendered":"Virginia Rockhounding Location Guide &#038; Map"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:66.666666666667%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:66.888888888889%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>If you&rsquo;re in Viginia and looking to do some rockhounding, you will be delighted to learn that it is a fantastic state for rock and mineral collecting. The varied topography and complicated geology of the state makes for a wide variety of interesting rocks and minerals to be collected and no shortage of places to find them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Virginia owes most of its rockhounding prowess to the Appalachian Mountains. The mineral rich pegmatites and metamorphic rock found in the central and western parts of the state have long been popular with collectors for their high-quality specimens of minerals like epidote, unakite, amethyst, and amazonite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Eastern Virginia is primarily made up of younger, sedimentary rocks and is more known for its fossil collecting than its rocks and minerals. Still, there is no shortage of locations to search for collectible rocks like petrified wood and kyanite. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In general, there are far too many old mines and prospects scattered across the state for me to list in their entirety in this article, but there are more than enough locations listed here to point you in the right direction and keep you busy for quite some time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The best places to rockhound in Virginia are old mines and the gravels of rivers and streams near heavily mineralized areas in the central and western parts of the state, particularly near the towns of Laurel Fork and Stuart. Kyanite mines near Willis Mountain are also very popular rockhounding destinations.<\/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\">&mdash;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">State Rock<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Nelsonite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">State Gemstone<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Amazonite (unofficial)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">State Fossil<\/td><td class=\"has-text-align-left\" data-align=\"left\">Chesapecten jeffersonius<\/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=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg\" alt=\"Amazonite\" class=\"wp-image-3686\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775-768x512.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20900%20600'%3E%3Crect%20width='900'%20height='600'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"Amazonite\" class=\"wp-image-3686 eager-load\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775-768x512.jpg 768w\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Amazonite<\/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 rocks and minerals in Virginia:<\/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\/41%C2%B004'54.9%22N+85%C2%B006'45.8%22W\/@41.081918,-85.1143397,589m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8815e4ddff22814b:0x80077b147642f793!2sFort+Wayne,+IN!3b1!8m2!3d41.079273!4d-85.1393513!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d41.0819181!4d-85.112732\" target=\"_blank\"><strong><\/strong><\/a><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B043'39.3%22N+80%C2%B030'22.5%22W\/@36.7275756,-80.5075518,521m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885212465486dd69:0xd6f9113563bde4a5!2sLaurel+Fork,+VA+24352!3b1!8m2!3d36.7178661!4d-80.5186673!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.727573!4d-80.5062373\" target=\"_blank\">Laurel Fork<\/a><\/strong> &ndash; Large quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/41%C2%B004'54.9%22N+85%C2%B006'45.8%22W\/@41.081918,-85.1143397,589m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8815e4ddff22814b:0x80077b147642f793!2sFort+Wayne,+IN!3b1!8m2!3d41.079273!4d-85.1393513!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d41.0819181!4d-85.112732\" target=\"_blank\"><strong><\/strong><\/a><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/morefieldgemmine.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Amelia Court House<\/a><\/strong> &ndash; Amazonite, Amethyst, Quartz<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B042'27.0%22N+80%C2%B027'07.4%22W\/@36.7075095,-80.4533343,512m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88526d2d1c0f8643:0xc476c80c150b4864!2sHurricane+Knob!3b1!8m2!3d36.7076363!4d-80.4531201!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7075067!4d-80.4520486\" target=\"_blank\"><strong><\/strong><\/a><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B042'27.0%22N+80%C2%B027'07.4%22W\/@36.7075095,-80.4533343,512m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88526d2d1c0f8643:0xc476c80c150b4864!2sHurricane+Knob!3b1!8m2!3d36.7076363!4d-80.4531201!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7075067!4d-80.4520486\" target=\"_blank\">Hurricane Knob<\/a><\/strong> &ndash; Kyanite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B037'52.2%22N+80%C2%B014'20.6%22W\/@36.6311811,-80.2401405,435m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8852660015580847:0x2b8861506562ca7f!2sStuart,+VA+24171!3b1!8m2!3d36.6363992!4d-80.2693963!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.631179!4d-80.239049\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Stuart<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Garnet, Kyanite, Staurolite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B048'49.7%22N+77%C2%B027'40.6%22W\/@37.8138015,-77.4625626,500m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b1375473d82f4b:0x3591adfd02410ef7!2sGum+Tree,+VA+23005!3b1!8m2!3d37.819308!4d-77.4741496!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8137992!4d-77.4612833\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Ashland Mill<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Moonstone, Kyanite, Amazonite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B053'12.8%22N+79%C2%B009'23.3%22W\/@37.8868939,-79.1579515,580m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4a707d4978d4f:0xd85b7f575c0617d9!2sAugusta+County,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d38.2004562!4d-79.2451149!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8868912!4d-79.1564642\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Tye River Gap<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Epidote, Unakite, Beryl, Quartz<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B044'32.9%22N+79%C2%B057'55.2%22W\/@36.7424741,-79.9664323,434m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88527b66d94e2c7d:0xbee66ff9b9f1e155!2sSmith+River+District,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d36.7667312!4d-80.2321313!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7424716!4d-79.9653375\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Henry County<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Blue, gem-quality quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B029'05.7%22N+78%C2%B019'23.8%22W\/@38.484915,-78.3251591,732m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4409bd7d8a28b:0xc6fcfc368ab421f0!2sCriglersville,+VA+22727!3b1!8m2!3d38.4579042!4d-78.3011149!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4849147!4d-78.3232734\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Rose River<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Epidote, Quartz crystals, Unakite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Kyanite+Mining\/@37.4777134,-78.4625575,426m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b3b212a8836777:0xbd2b69e9edf6fefc!2sWillis+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d37.4765372!4d-78.4636111!3m4!1s0x89b3b3deef61aafd:0x3f7b9c6e158d6831!8m2!3d37.4774955!4d-78.4603503\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Willis Mountain<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Kyanite, Topaz, Garnet<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B018'39.4%22N+78%C2%B013'48.4%22W\/@37.3109482,-78.2322877,864m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b235b868986bd3:0x821b7338ca386191!2sSaylers+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d37.296317!4d-78.2419148!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.3109436!4d-78.2300989\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Sayler&rsquo;s Creek<\/strong><\/a> &ndash; Amethyst, Quartz crystals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Rocks and Minerals Found in Virginia<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Rockhounds in Virginia will be delighted by the huge variety of rocks and minerals they can find here. Virginia is probably most well known for its amethyst and unakite which can be found in relative abundance, particularly in the central part of the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What types of rocks and minerals you can find while out searching will obviously depend entirely on the general area you&rsquo;re searching in. Luckily, almost no matter where you are in Virginia you can hope to find quite a few different rock and mineral varieties while looking for specimens to add to your collection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The most commonly found and collected rocks and minerals in Virginia 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>Amethyst<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Quartz<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Staurolite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Agate<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Epidote<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Unakite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Amazonite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kyanite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Beryl<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Apatite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\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-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005.jpg\" alt=\"Staurolite\" class=\"wp-image-3174\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005.jpg\" alt=\"Staurolite\" class=\"wp-image-3174 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_113709005.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Staurolite<\/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<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Rockhounding Sites in Virginia<\/strong><\/h2>\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 Virginia which I would recommend to people looking to do some rockhounding. These are mostly comprised of beaches, 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><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3zzwJlL\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>Rockhounding Virginia<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3xwwSEN\" target=\"_blank\">Roadside Geology of Virginia<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/amzn.to\/3zBlx86\" 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\/3zxceX3\" 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\/virginia.shtml\" target=\"_blank\">many rockhounding clubs in Virginia<\/a> so you can most likely find one you like nearby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the tables and maps below, I have listed many mines and prospects where interesting rocks and minerals have been produced from. Please keep in mind that most of them are likely privately owned, meaning you&rsquo;ll need to get permission to collect on that location. In general, you can use these locations as a guide to point you towards general areas which may contain collectible material<\/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<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\/u\/0\/embed?mid=17ELB_8APoIgXQGLVtCCIUa1Uja7NcSet\" width=\"640\" height=\"480\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Western Virginia Rockhounding Sites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Western Virginia is probably the best part of the state to go rockhounding. This area is dominated by the heavily mineralized Appalachian mountains and is cut by many pegmatites that have left the area filled with interesting rock and mineral specimens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There is a long history of mining in western Virginia, and there are far too many old mines and prospects dotting the landscape than are possible to list here in their entirety. Most of these mines were targeting pegmatites and metamorphic rock containing minerals like apatite, pyrite, quartz, epidote, and kyanite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a few areas of western Virginia that rockhounds will be especially drawn to. There is a wide belt centered on the town of Stuart where staurolites (&lsquo;fairy stones&rsquo;) can be found in relative abundance. Similarly, a large area around Laurel Fork is famous for its unusually large and high-quality quartz crystal clusters.<\/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\/37%C2%B003'01.8%22N+81%C2%B013'32.2%22W\/@37.0505103,-81.2278007,864m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884e21683087e821:0xab3eb053ca994837!2sWalker+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d37.0453959!4d-81.228987!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.0505056!4d-81.2256123\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Walker Mountain, area on N slopes<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals, Agate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B038'33.5%22N+80%C2%B050'40.3%22W\/@36.642629,-80.846061,613m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851f5081fa1db09:0xa3e83fe393de7e69!2sPipers+Gap,+VA+24333!3b1!8m2!3d36.6442953!4d-80.8420192!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.6426258!4d-80.8445158\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pipers Gap, W side of highway<\/a><\/td><td>Hornblende, Serpentine, Talc<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B042'42.1%22N+80%C2%B056'27.0%22W\/@36.7117103,-80.9430177,867m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851f5081fa1db09:0xa3e83fe393de7e69!2sPipers+Gap,+VA+24333!3b1!8m2!3d36.6442953!4d-80.8420192!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7117055!4d-80.9408293\">Galax, area 3 mi. N <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B042'42.1%22N+80%C2%B056'27.0%22W\/@36.7117103,-80.9430177,867m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851f5081fa1db09:0xa3e83fe393de7e69!2sPipers+Gap,+VA+24333!3b1!8m2!3d36.6442953!4d-80.8420192!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7117055!4d-80.9408293\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B042'42.1%22N+80%C2%B056'27.0%22W\/@36.7117103,-80.9430177,867m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851f5081fa1db09:0xa3e83fe393de7e69!2sPipers+Gap,+VA+24333!3b1!8m2!3d36.6442953!4d-80.8420192!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7117055!4d-80.9408293\">mining dumps<\/a><\/td><td>Apatite (gem-quality, green), Chalcopyrite, Pyrite, Rutile crystals, Selenite, Calcite, Siderite, Vivianite (dark blue, bladed)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B050'43.5%22N+80%C2%B043'26.1%22W\/@36.8454101,-80.7244707,225m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x0:0x0!2zMzbCsDUwJzQzLjAiTiA4MMKwNDMnMjguMCJX!3b1!8m2!3d36.8452759!4d-80.7244415!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.8454093!4d-80.7239032\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hillsville, area mining dumps (Betty Baker Mine)<\/a><\/td><td>Arsenopyrite, Azurite, Barite, Chalcocite, Chalcopyrite, Chrysocolla, Cuprite, Galena, Pyrite, Pyrrhotite, Siderite, Sphalerite, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B043'39.3%22N+80%C2%B030'22.5%22W\/@36.7275756,-80.5075518,521m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885212465486dd69:0xd6f9113563bde4a5!2sLaurel+Fork,+VA+24352!3b1!8m2!3d36.7178661!4d-80.5186673!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.727573!4d-80.5062373\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Laurel Fork, area farms and gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals (some large)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B010'29.7%22N+79%C2%B057'08.2%22W\/@37.1749303,-79.9544717,862m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d1846eff121bd:0x8ea8a4d16ada19c6!2sBlue+Ridge,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d37.3784694!4d-79.8069828!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.1749258!4d-79.9522826\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Blue Ridge, general area in Floyd County<\/a><\/td><td>Staurolites<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B055'44.4%22N+80%C2%B021'25.0%22W\/@36.9290093,-80.3591347,865m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d89d0554b9a59:0xab8a4dea73e925de!2sFloyd,+VA+24091!3b1!8m2!3d36.9112443!4d-80.3200502!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.9290045!4d-80.3569461\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Floyd, area outcrops and gravels 2 mi. NW<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals (rutilated)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B050'49.2%22N+80%C2%B026'46.2%22W\/@36.8470073,-80.4483467,866m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88520b16ec697433:0xfcc2ecbd0c25fd9b!2sWillis,+VA+24380!3b1!8m2!3d36.8579109!4d-80.4808945!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.8470034!4d-80.446158\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chestnut Creek Wetlands, in soils of general area<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals (some large)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B016'32.5%22N+79%C2%B050'34.8%22W\/@37.2773251,-79.8510775,15.9z\/data=!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d13e67ec52387:0xc0b3d3b8f970d5e8!2sChestnut+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d37.2787492!4d-79.8467034!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.2756941!4d-79.8430013\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chestnut Mountain, general area on SE side<\/a><\/td><td>Garnet, Biotite, Quartz crystals, Tourmaline<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B058'10.5%22N+79%C2%B044'41.7%22W\/@36.9695733,-79.7471067,17z\/data=!3m1!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1sschool!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.9695689!4d-79.7449185\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Glade Hill, area just S<\/a><\/td><td>Apatite crystals (yellow)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B016'22.3%22N+80%C2%B033'11.1%22W\/@37.2728617,-80.5539708,351m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884dddc45bb5b075:0x2db2e5402d7a57f2!2sGiles+County,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d37.3132885!4d-80.6770787!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.2728598!4d-80.5530782\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Spruce Run, in gravels W of Giles<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B037'37.8%22N+80%C2%B051'32.1%22W\/@36.6271651,-80.8594552,217m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851f500d75be087:0x62e55434dfb8ea8c!2sHanks+Knob!3b1!8m2!3d36.6426286!4d-80.8495194!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.6271635!4d-80.8589083\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hanks Knob, general area in gravels, streams, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Garnet, Pyrite, Pyrrhotite, Quartz crystals, Rutile<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B043'05.6%22N+81%C2%B008'54.7%22W\/@36.7182323,-81.1507197,867m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851c21a1c648bf3:0x3c8855452c6d2d2d!2sElk+Creek,+VA+24326!3b1!8m2!3d36.7215113!4d-81.1770379!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7182281!4d-81.1485307\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Elk Creek, area 1.5 mi. E<\/a><\/td><td>Chalcedony<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B035'13.0%22N+81%C2%B000'54.6%22W\/@36.5869582,-81.0172932,848m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851f39a702bc175:0x4930a3913b27ad72!2sGalax,+VA+24333!3b1!8m2!3d36.6612387!4d-80.9239671!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.5869539!4d-81.0151571\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Galax, area exposures 6.5 mi. SW<\/a><\/td><td>Garnet (spessartine)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B037'33.8%22N+81%C2%B024'15.5%22W\/@36.6260665,-81.4050665,297m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851b616bc078acd:0x9b812f51aaab3789!2sMink+Ridge!3b1!8m2!3d36.6290101!4d-81.4103833!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.6260652!4d-81.4043176\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mink Ridge, in area exposures<\/a><\/td><td>Soapstone<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B040'30.1%22N+81%C2%B024'12.7%22W\/@36.6750183,-81.4057047,868m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851cbc504bbbabf:0x4c8fa35c120dc1cd!2sTroutdale,+VA+24378!3b1!8m2!3d36.7054674!4d-81.444379!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.6750137!4d-81.4035164\" target=\"_blank\">Trou<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B040'30.1%22N+81%C2%B024'12.7%22W\/@36.6750183,-81.4057047,868m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851cbc504bbbabf:0x4c8fa35c120dc1cd!2sTroutdale,+VA+24378!3b1!8m2!3d36.7054674!4d-81.444379!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.6750137!4d-81.4035164\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">tdale<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B040'30.1%22N+81%C2%B024'12.7%22W\/@36.6750183,-81.4057047,868m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8851cbc504bbbabf:0x4c8fa35c120dc1cd!2sTroutdale,+VA+24378!3b1!8m2!3d36.7054674!4d-81.444379!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.6750137!4d-81.4035164\" target=\"_blank\">, area outcrops and road cuts in area 2.5 mi. SE<\/a><\/td><td>Epidote, Jasper (red), Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B008'26.5%22N+80%C2%B015'03.3%22W\/@37.1407049,-80.252413,594m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d9a3cec3f45dd:0x6e51f92d7f6f0131!2sBonys+Run!3b1!8m2!3d37.139158!4d-80.250602!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.1407018!4d-80.2509121\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bonys Run, area prospects<\/a><\/td><td>Smithsonite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B042'27.0%22N+80%C2%B027'07.4%22W\/@36.7075095,-80.4533343,512m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88526d2d1c0f8643:0xc476c80c150b4864!2sHurricane+Knob!3b1!8m2!3d36.7076363!4d-80.4531201!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7075067!4d-80.4520486\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hurricane Knob, general area<\/a><\/td><td>Kyanite (gem-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B037'52.2%22N+80%C2%B014'20.6%22W\/@36.6311811,-80.2401405,435m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8852660015580847:0x2b8861506562ca7f!2sStuart,+VA+24171!3b1!8m2!3d36.6363992!4d-80.2693963!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.631179!4d-80.239049\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stuart, area stream gravels, road cuts, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Garnet (almandine), Staurolite, Corundum, Kyanite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B010'33.8%22N+80%C2%B006'38.9%22W\/@37.1760566,-80.1121213,522m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m13!1m6!3m5!1s0x884d9e3a100519f1:0x4878741deb1f027d!2sAirPoint!8m2!3d37.1712464!4d-80.1142065!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.1760535!4d-80.1108034\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Airpoint, in a road cut<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite, Apatite, Rutile<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B015'08.4%22N+80%C2%B010'33.1%22W\/@37.2523396,-80.1767077,332m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m13!1m6!3m5!1s0x884da192dc2ed487:0xb74400ad85b16a09!2sDixie+Caverns+%26+Pottery+Inc!8m2!3d37.2524026!4d-80.1751696!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.2523379!4d-80.1758672\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Salem, in exposure behind Dixie Caverns<\/a><\/td><td>Agate (smoky)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B047'17.8%22N+81%C2%B031'47.1%22W\/@36.7882733,-81.5319237,870m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7882689!4d-81.5297355\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Marion, surrounding area esp. to SW<\/a><\/td><td>Barite, Calcite, Iron minerals, Limonite, Malachite, Pyrite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B038'57.0%22N+81%C2%B033'57.8%22W\/@36.6491783,-81.5682467,872m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8850356412b4d3ef:0x59a3df712679c667!2sMt+Rogers!3b1!8m2!3d36.6598406!4d-81.5445575!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.6491736!4d-81.5660581\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Whitetop, in rhyolite outcrop to Mt. Rogers<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Fluorite, Selenite, Siderite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Lead+Mines+District,+VA\/@36.8829746,-80.9354467,1279m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x8851f94a8a1c72d3:0x2923849c06c1492d!8m2!3d36.8833762!4d-80.9319583!15sCgRtaW5lkgEQc3RhdGlzdGljYWxfYXJlYQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wythe County, regional lead and zinc mines<\/a><\/td><td>Aragonite, Calcite, Fluorite, Bornite, Marcasite, Smithsonite, Sphalerite, Dolomite, Pyrite, Cerussite, etc.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Central Virginia Rockhounding Sites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Rockhounding in central Virginia is highlighted by the amethyst that can be found in gravels and fields all throughout the area. Like the rest of the state, there are countless mines and prospects which have historically produced high-quality specimens of minerals like epidote, fluorite, quartz, and rhodonite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Central Virginia is also known for unusually high-quality unakite, which is a metamorphosed version of granite sporting a distinct and attractive shade of green. This green color is caused by a high epidote content, and it makes the rock a very popular item with collectors looking to create cabochons from the material.<\/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\/38%C2%B008'58.3%22N+78%C2%B032'22.2%22W\/@38.1495432,-78.5416777,851m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4796fc63fb9bb:0xdfbad3d656b7b73d!2sBuck+Mountain+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d38.1832253!4d-78.5717553!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.1495391!4d-78.539489\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Buck Mountain Creek, near Charlottesville<\/a><\/td><td>Agate<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B007'43.4%22N+78%C2%B041'24.9%22W\/@38.1287161,-78.6913441,426m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b481b5ee95da15:0xd036161d628397b4!2sSugar+Hollow+Rd,+Virginia+22932!3b1!8m2!3d38.1295284!4d-78.7067922!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.1287145!4d-78.690248\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Moormans River, NW of Charlottesville<\/a><\/td><td>Epidote, Jasper<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B005'08.8%22N+78%C2%B020'54.5%22W\/@38.0857732,-78.3506607,852m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4750bb9ae66f9:0x7f5138c774ab6ecd!2sSouthwest+Mountains!3b1!8m2!3d38.0956923!4d-78.3350074!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0857691!4d-78.3484715\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Southwest Mountains, in schist veins on W slopes<\/a><\/td><td>Chalcopyrite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B056'43.4%22N+78%C2%B028'05.9%22W\/@37.9453832,-78.4704947,853m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4750bb9ae66f9:0x7f5138c774ab6ecd!2sSouthwest+Mountains!3b1!8m2!3d38.0956923!4d-78.3350074!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.9453793!4d-78.4683055\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Charlottesville, area to S in gravels and road cuts<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B057'42.2%22N+78%C2%B035'56.0%22W\/@37.9617255,-78.6007133,707m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1sred+hill+quarry!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.9617219!4d-78.5989004\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Red Hill Quarry<\/a><\/td><td>Epidote crystals, Microcline, Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B052'29.3%22N+78%C2%B043'22.0%22W\/@37.874796,-78.7243448,614m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b376f8517d05ef:0xc78ec4ed732c5ba3!2sCovesville,+VA+22931!3b1!8m2!3d37.8901411!4d-78.7047401!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8747932!4d-78.7227725\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Cove Creek, area gravels and road cuts to S<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B002'31.9%22N+78%C2%B042'02.6%22W\/@38.0421924,-78.7019908,494m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0421902!4d-78.7007207\" target=\"_blank\">Stockton Creek, in gravels<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B002'31.9%22N+78%C2%B042'02.6%22W\/@38.0421924,-78.7019908,494m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0421902!4d-78.7007207\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B002'31.9%22N+78%C2%B042'02.6%22W\/@38.0421924,-78.7019908,494m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0421902!4d-78.7007207\" target=\"_blank\">S of Crozet<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B049'53.9%22N+78%C2%B040'00.8%22W\/@37.8316311,-78.6679817,432m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8316286!4d-78.6668764\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Faber, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Azurite, Cerussite, Chalcopyrite, Fluorite, Galena, Pyromorphite, Smithsonite, Sphalerite, Quartz crystals, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B000'39.5%22N+78%C2%B024'28.6%22W\/@38.0109862,-78.4101267,853m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b38942cc45815b:0x8737d7d7bb3b7160!2sShadwell,+VA+22911!3b1!8m2!3d38.0129175!4d-78.3955647!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0109821!4d-78.4079382\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shadwell, area gravels, exposures, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Quartzite (green, gem-quality), Unakite, Epidote<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B021'25.8%22N+77%C2%B054'39.8%22W\/@37.3571672,-77.9132517,860m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.3571635!4d-77.9110626\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amelia County, many area mines and quarries<\/a><\/td><td>Fluorite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/morefieldgemmine.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amelia Court House, area mines<\/a><\/td><td>Amazonite, Amethyst, Feldspar, Cleavelandite, Quartz crystals, Topaz (blue), Beryl, Tourmaline, Aquamarine, Fluorite, Garnet etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B032'47.8%22N+79%C2%B000'40.4%22W\/@37.5466172,-79.0133789,849m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b31f51bc1ab6e7:0xe251977e4c752836!2sAmethyst+Ln,+Virginia+24521!3b1!8m2!3d37.5425456!4d-79.0086195!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.5466128!4d-79.0112138\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Amherst, farm to E (fee, get permission)<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst (gem-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B040'12.7%22N+79%C2%B007'34.8%22W\/@37.6702061,-79.1284375,828m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b33b6a29f18055:0x86898dd9191dcc40!2sFancy+Hill,+VA+24521!3b1!8m2!3d37.6679164!4d-79.1266943!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.6702019!4d-79.1263215\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fancy Hill, in soils and gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst, Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B029'24.4%22N+78%C2%B053'22.1%22W\/@37.4901238,-78.8904205,371m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b2e3c6baf1562f:0xd145b07cade8a39e!2sWreck+Island+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d37.3984921!4d-78.9118492!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.4901223!4d-78.8894763\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wreck Island Creek, old mines<\/a><\/td><td>Chrysocolla<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B056'56.4%22N+79%C2%B016'10.3%22W\/@37.9490052,-79.2717247,853m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b34f9af0991a05:0x3a5d8b475f8a672d!2sSpottswood,+VA+24472!3b1!8m2!3d37.9551328!4d-79.2136429!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.9490014!4d-79.2695357\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Spottswood, area gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B053'12.8%22N+79%C2%B009'23.3%22W\/@37.8868939,-79.1579515,580m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4a707d4978d4f:0xd85b7f575c0617d9!2sAugusta+County,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d38.2004562!4d-79.2451149!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8868912!4d-79.1564642\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Tye River Gap, area outcrops just W<\/a><\/td><td>Epidote, Unakite, Beryl, Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B005'32.6%22N+79%C2%B031'23.6%22W\/@38.0924042,-79.5254157,852m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884caf6942c98583:0xcdb78a4fc9cc0fb0!2sChestnut+Ridge!3b1!8m2!3d38.0773491!4d-79.5442106!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0923998!4d-79.5232266\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Chestnut Ridge, at a farm (fee)<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B025'58.4%22N+79%C2%B036'15.4%22W\/@37.4329022,-79.6064517,859m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d25d5368ef631:0x6deefafe627a036d!2sPeaks+of+Otter!3b1!8m2!3d37.4335103!4d-79.604879!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.432898!4d-79.6042628\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Peaks of Otter, many area mines and pegmatites<\/a><\/td><td>Beryl, Columbite, Feldspar, Garnet, Quartz crystals, Amethyst, Tourmaline, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B016'20.0%22N+79%C2%B025'12.0%22W\/@37.2722342,-79.4221917,861m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d25d5368ef631:0x6deefafe627a036d!2sPeaks+of+Otter!3b1!8m2!3d37.4335103!4d-79.604879!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.2722296!4d-79.4200033\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bedford, area 6 mi. SE along Co. road 714<\/a><\/td><td>Moonstone<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B011'40.8%22N+79%C2%B034'06.9%22W\/@37.1946713,-79.5707597,862m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d4762b93cf009:0x776c8fcdd19af3cb!2sMoneta,+VA+24121!3b1!8m2!3d37.1826516!4d-79.6195556!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.1946671!4d-79.5685709\" target=\"_blank\">Moneta, large area W to Big Otter River, in gravels an<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B011'40.8%22N+79%C2%B034'06.9%22W\/@37.1946713,-79.5707597,862m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d4762b93cf009:0x776c8fcdd19af3cb!2sMoneta,+VA+24121!3b1!8m2!3d37.1826516!4d-79.6195556!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.1946671!4d-79.5685709\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">d<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B011'40.8%22N+79%C2%B034'06.9%22W\/@37.1946713,-79.5707597,862m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884d4762b93cf009:0x776c8fcdd19af3cb!2sMoneta,+VA+24121!3b1!8m2!3d37.1826516!4d-79.6195556!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.1946671!4d-79.5685709\" target=\"_blank\"> pegmatite outcrops<\/a><\/td><td>Garnet, Pyrite, Quartz crystals, Rutile, Perthite, Tourmaline, Zoisite, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B048'34.8%22N+78%C2%B021'50.8%22W\/@37.8096812,-78.3662897,855m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1srock+shop+near+Dixie,+VA!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8096774!4d-78.3641009\" target=\"_blank\">Kidd&rsquo;s Store, general area to NW<\/a><\/td><td>Rhodonite (gem-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/Kyanite+Mining\/@37.4777134,-78.4625575,426m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b3b212a8836777:0xbd2b69e9edf6fefc!2sWillis+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d37.4765372!4d-78.4636111!3m4!1s0x89b3b3deef61aafd:0x3f7b9c6e158d6831!8m2!3d37.4774955!4d-78.4603503\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Willis Mountain, area mines (Kyanite Mining)<\/a><\/td><td>Kyanite, Manganese, Apatite, Corundum, Feldspar, Garnet, Hematite, Pyrite, Magnetite, Rutile, Topaz, Zircon, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B023'27.7%22N+79%C2%B002'23.9%22W\/@37.3910186,-79.0413082,527m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1squarry!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.3910157!4d-79.0399664\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Lynchburg, area quarries and mines<\/a><\/td><td>Virginia Greenstone, Calcite, Kyanite, Pyrite, Ankerite, Magnetite, Rutile, Epidote (gem-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B012'19.6%22N+78%C2%B052'03.5%22W\/@37.2054373,-78.8698367,862m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b2f18e7f0c59e5:0x28b6402f0c954068!2sRed+House,+VA+23963!3b1!8m2!3d37.2009657!4d-78.8098465!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.205433!4d-78.8676477\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Red House, area 3 mi. W<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B003'07.9%22N+78%C2%B040'39.7%22W\/@37.0522073,-78.6798847,864m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m13!1m6!3m5!1s0x89b26036920d23a5:0x403244c312beee44!2sAmerican+Cancer+Society!8m2!3d37.0550991!4d-78.6376701!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.0522027!4d-78.6776959\" target=\"_blank\">Charlotte Courthouse, general area, in gravels and diggings 2.5 mi. W<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst (gem-quality), Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B003'40.3%22N+78%C2%B055'58.4%22W\/@37.0612013,-78.9350837,863m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b292f6a3cec923:0xb93dcb049a721660!2sBrookneal,+VA+24528!3b1!8m2!3d37.0501416!4d-78.9441801!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.0611966!4d-78.9328949\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Brookneal, area just to NE in gravels and diggings<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst (gem-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B044'32.9%22N+79%C2%B057'55.2%22W\/@36.7424741,-79.9664323,434m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88527b66d94e2c7d:0xbee66ff9b9f1e155!2sSmith+River+District,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d36.7667312!4d-80.2321313!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7424716!4d-79.9653375\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Henry County, all area stream and river gravels, fields, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals (blue, gem-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B039'54.3%22N+79%C2%B041'25.7%22W\/@36.6650803,-79.6926667,868m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8852bd3c2ec57b65:0xb45419a162866925!2sAxton,+VA+24054!3b1!8m2!3d36.659582!4d-79.711978!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.6650765!4d-79.6904776\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Axton, area soils and gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Garnet<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B046'40.5%22N+80%C2%B005'32.5%22W\/@36.7779093,-80.0945607,867m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m16!1m9!3m8!1s0x8852875022dee935:0xfd50903e7f85302c!2sFairy+Stone+State+Park!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d36.7848034!4d-80.0960812!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7779051!4d-80.0923721\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Fairy Stone State Park, outside boundaries (no collecting inside)<\/a><\/td><td>Staurolite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B043'17.5%22N+78%C2%B058'14.4%22W\/@37.7215236,-78.9720128,531m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m13!1m6!3m5!1s0x89b315d6259c83f3:0x39152277a262ea76!2sSaunders+Brothers+Farm+Market!8m2!3d37.716706!4d-78.968153!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.7215205!4d-78.9706609\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Saunders Farm, general area in gravels and pegmatites<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst (high-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B050'59.6%22N+79%C2%B010'13.3%22W\/@37.8498945,-79.1722119,721m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b346e67f09f221:0xced3846d4e7f42c3!2sMontebello,+VA+24464!3b1!8m2!3d37.8637468!4d-79.137807!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8498905!4d-79.1703721\">Montebello <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B050'59.6%22N+79%C2%B010'13.3%22W\/@37.8498945,-79.1722119,721m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b346e67f09f221:0xced3846d4e7f42c3!2sMontebello,+VA+24464!3b1!8m2!3d37.8637468!4d-79.137807!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8498905!4d-79.1703721\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">in <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B050'59.6%22N+79%C2%B010'13.3%22W\/@37.8498945,-79.1722119,721m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b346e67f09f221:0xced3846d4e7f42c3!2sMontebello,+VA+24464!3b1!8m2!3d37.8637468!4d-79.137807!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8498905!4d-79.1703721\">gravels of Irish Creek<\/a><\/td><td>Moonstone (blue), Cassiterite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B044'42.0%22N+78%C2%B058'33.2%22W\/@37.7450112,-78.9765072,245m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b315074ac57801:0xc1056a3cc2446a3c!2sRoseland,+VA+22967!3b1!8m2!3d37.7476405!4d-78.9758579!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.7450096!4d-78.9758817\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Roseland, area stream and river gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals (blue), Ilmenite, Rutile crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B057'04.4%22N+79%C2%B020'19.8%22W\/@36.9512263,-79.3410217,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b2ad240fdaa79b:0x3bf6ba00b789a405!2sGretna,+VA+24557!3b1!8m2!3d36.9537526!4d-79.3589134!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.9512218!4d-79.3388331\" target=\"_blank\">Gret<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B057'04.4%22N+79%C2%B020'19.8%22W\/@36.9512263,-79.3410217,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b2ad240fdaa79b:0x3bf6ba00b789a405!2sGretna,+VA+24557!3b1!8m2!3d36.9537526!4d-79.3589134!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.9512218!4d-79.3388331\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">n<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B057'04.4%22N+79%C2%B020'19.8%22W\/@36.9512263,-79.3410217,869m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b2ad240fdaa79b:0x3bf6ba00b789a405!2sGretna,+VA+24557!3b1!8m2!3d36.9537526!4d-79.3589134!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.9512218!4d-79.3388331\" target=\"_blank\">a, area gravels and fields to E<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz (blue)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B005'32.9%22N+79%C2%B019'30.1%22W\/@37.0924851,-79.3261157,436m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b2b150c247a8cf:0xc85e94822b85ab21!2sHurt,+VA+24563!3b1!8m2!3d37.0926426!4d-79.2964125!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.0924831!4d-79.3250152\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hurt, area gravels E of hwy<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz (blue)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B012'11.9%22N+78%C2%B021'39.4%22W\/@37.2032974,-78.3621579,480m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b24642fc42b8db:0x1cb164c8d16fef6d!2sLeigh+Mountain!3b1!8m2!3d37.2040418!4d-78.3588841!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.2032951!4d-78.3609448\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Leigh Mountain, area mines and prospects<\/a><\/td><td>Garnet, Kyanite (gem-quality), Rutile, Staurolite, Topaz<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B018'39.4%22N+78%C2%B013'48.4%22W\/@37.3109482,-78.2322877,864m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b235b868986bd3:0x821b7338ca386191!2sSaylers+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d37.296317!4d-78.2419148!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.3109436!4d-78.2300989\" target=\"_blank\">Sayler&rsquo;s Creek, in outcrops and gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst crystals, Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B046'34.8%22N+79%C2%B025'48.8%22W\/@37.7763255,-79.431523,508m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x884cc8d057b0a5e5:0xe81881d4e2830060!2sLexington,+VA+24450!3b1!8m2!3d37.7840208!4d-79.4428157!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.7763231!4d-79.4302284\" target=\"_blank\">Lexington, area quarries<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Chalcopyrite, Dolomite, Pyrite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B052'32.9%22N+79%C2%B012'36.8%22W\/@37.8758172,-79.2113754,450m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b345ff015141af:0xc61d226c8a60a36c!2sVesuvius,+VA+24483!3b1!8m2!3d37.9062449!4d-79.1972533!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8758149!4d-79.2102279\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Big Mary&rsquo;s Creek, in gravels S of Vesuvius<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite (gem-quality)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B024'29.2%22N+78%C2%B038'07.4%22W\/@38.4042861,-78.6756009,14495m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b47cc48c7e827b:0xe2d9840ed92b1772!2sRockingham+County,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d38.5825919!4d-78.8835548!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4081093!4d-78.6353802\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">South Fork Shenandoah River, near Elkton<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Eastern Virginia Rockhounding Sites<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Eastern Virginia, while not as heavily mineralized as the rest of the state, is still a great place to do some rockhounding. River and stream gravels all over this part of the state are loaded with collectible material like petrified wood, unakite, kyanite, and amethyst.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Virginia&rsquo;s Atlantic beaches are generally a great place to do some beachcombing for agates and other quartz-family minerals. They are also among the only places where you can find &lsquo;Clam Geodes&rsquo;, which are fossilized clam shells lined with beautiful crystals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most of the best rockhounding sites in eastern Virginia are in the northeastern part of the state where the topography is a little more interesting and the geology lends itself to the creation of interesting rocks and minerals. This area has many quarries and old mines which are historically known for producing minerals like epidote, prehnite, and quartz. You&rsquo;ll also probably want to search the stream and river gravels of northeastern Virginia for beautifully blue quartz crystals, which are sometimes even chatoyant.<\/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\/38%C2%B053'54.0%22N+77%C2%B005'32.9%22W\/@38.8983491,-77.0946602,839m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b7b6651b304079:0x34c7d5849f31da74!2sSpout+Run!3b1!8m2!3d38.8997244!4d-77.0888226!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.8983453!4d-77.0924795\" target=\"_blank\">Arlington, in gravels of Spout Run<\/a><\/td><td>Jasper<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B058'55.4%22N+77%C2%B034'59.1%22W\/@37.9820672,-77.5852777,853m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.9820634!4d-77.5830885\" target=\"_blank\">Ladysmith, area gravels and mine 5 mi. SW<\/a><\/td><td>Beryl crystals (green), Feldspar, Quartz, Tourmaline (black)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B024'34.7%22N+77%C2%B046'27.5%22W\/@37.4096402,-77.7764967,859m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b179afe5411d67:0x2428a94dc7ae9c99!2sSkinquarter,+VA+23120!3b1!8m2!3d37.39526!4d-77.780174!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.4096358!4d-77.7743079\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Skinquarter, area gravels, fields, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Petrified wood, Opalized wood<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B058'39.2%22N+77%C2%B013'59.0%22W\/@38.9775571,-77.2341474,419m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b635b83fb77abd:0x5a127795e14929cd!2sDifficult+Run+Trail,+Virginia!3b1!8m2!3d38.9728178!4d-77.2622058!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.9775552!4d-77.2330564\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Potomac River, a quartz outcrop near Difficult Run<\/a><\/td><td>Apatite, Specularite, Tourmaline<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B049'14.8%22N+77%C2%B027'59.1%22W\/@38.8207849,-77.4679692,595m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b644817a4a9ef3:0x9932b1116c9da2c!2sCentreville,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d38.8403909!4d-77.4288769!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.8207821!4d-77.4664237\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Centreville, area outcrops, gravels, road cuts, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B050'58.0%22N+77%C2%B006'11.7%22W\/@38.849432,-77.1037922,211m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b7b6a9f18cfe2b:0x9ca5515bdcedcce4!2sDoctors+Run!3b1!8m2!3d38.8577702!4d-77.1017709!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.8494313!4d-77.1032449\" target=\"_blank\">Arlington, in gravels of Four Mile Run and Doctors R<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B050'58.0%22N+77%C2%B006'11.7%22W\/@38.849432,-77.1037922,211m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b7b6a9f18cfe2b:0x9ca5515bdcedcce4!2sDoctors+Run!3b1!8m2!3d38.8577702!4d-77.1017709!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.8494313!4d-77.1032449\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">u<\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B050'58.0%22N+77%C2%B006'11.7%22W\/@38.849432,-77.1037922,211m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b7b6a9f18cfe2b:0x9ca5515bdcedcce4!2sDoctors+Run!3b1!8m2!3d38.8577702!4d-77.1017709!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.8494313!4d-77.1032449\" target=\"_blank\">n<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz (blue pebbles, chatoyant)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B048'55.8%22N+78%C2%B008'44.3%22W\/@37.8155002,-78.1478177,855m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b3eee2768368ef:0xd93bcc0f9969b694!2sByrd+Creek!3b1!8m2!3d37.8167134!4d-78.1507385!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8154959!4d-78.1456286\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Byrd Creek, in gravels near Goochland<\/a><\/td><td>Gold (in placers), Quartz<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B016'20.4%22N+78%C2%B034'04.9%22W\/@38.2723366,-78.5693966,528m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b46498937ddf39:0x86c1b9a1cf0c6927!2sBacon+Hollow!3b1!8m2!3d38.282074!4d-78.5586256!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.2723336!4d-78.568037\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bacon Hollow, area stream gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B045'20.7%22N+77%C2%B027'13.0%22W\/@37.7557492,-77.4557867,855m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b13c39fb0d2bd9:0xa80e9563e59c314b!2sHanover+County,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d37.7772071!4d-77.5160788!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.7557455!4d-77.4535981\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ashland area fields, gravels, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Staurolite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B048'49.7%22N+77%C2%B027'40.6%22W\/@37.8138015,-77.4625626,500m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b1375473d82f4b:0x3591adfd02410ef7!2sGum+Tree,+VA+23005!3b1!8m2!3d37.819308!4d-77.4741496!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8137992!4d-77.4612833\" target=\"_blank\">Ashland Mill, area mines, stream gravels and fields<\/a><\/td><td>Mica, Quartz, Moonstone, Amazonite, Feldspar, Kyanite (gem-quality), Rutile<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B051'34.6%22N+77%C2%B030'41.1%22W\/@37.8596122,-77.5135927,854m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b137b3f0feada9:0xc72322506647680d!2sOliver,+VA+23015!3b1!8m2!3d37.8581963!4d-77.5327623!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.8596085!4d-77.5114044\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">North Anna Battlefield Park, general area to SW<\/a><\/td><td>Moonstone<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B027'09.6%22N+77%C2%B019'44.0%22W\/@37.4526712,-77.3310665,856m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b1112c7838a11b:0xcd25e55a3a1ce37d!2sHenrico+County,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d37.5059332!4d-77.3324425!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.4526673!4d-77.3288851\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Hanover County, all area creek and stream gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/39%C2%B004'54.8%22N+77%C2%B031'18.8%22W\/@39.0818961,-77.5240857,840m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!1squarry+in+loudon+county,+VA!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d39.0818917!4d-77.5218973\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Loudon County, many area quarries<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Datolite, Epidote, Natrolite, Stilbite, Diopside, Magnetite, Prehnite, Quartz crystals, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B002'13.6%22N+77%C2%B053'56.5%22W\/@38.0368803,-77.9000702,436m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m9!1m2!2m1!1smine!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0371153!4d-77.8990342\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mineral, area mines near Contrary Creek<\/a><\/td><td>Actinolite, Garnet, Pyrite, Serpentine, Tremolite, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B000'29.7%22N+78%C2%B007'36.0%22W\/@38.008262,-78.1284977,719m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4078444f563b5:0xacac10992db69da7!2sTrevilians,+VA+23093!3b1!8m2!3d38.0515275!4d-78.0727779!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0082625!4d-78.1266585\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Trevilians, area 4 mi. SW in gravels, pits, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst, Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B030'38.7%22N+78%C2%B025'18.9%22W\/@38.510756,-78.4226292,275m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4445dd1deb9fd:0x7cd4e2284b9303ba!2sDark+Hollow+Falls!3b1!8m2!3d38.5187369!4d-78.4229931!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.5107557!4d-78.4219198\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Dark Hollow, are mines<\/a><\/td><td>Copper minerals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B029'05.7%22N+78%C2%B019'23.8%22W\/@38.484915,-78.3251591,732m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4409bd7d8a28b:0xc6fcfc368ab421f0!2sCriglersville,+VA+22727!3b1!8m2!3d38.4579042!4d-78.3011149!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4849147!4d-78.3232734\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Rose River, in gravels near Syria<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite, Epidote (gem-quality), Jasper, Quartz crystals (blue, smoky, clear), Chert (black)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B025'25.6%22N+78%C2%B020'17.1%22W\/@38.4220903,-78.3445694,3411m\/data=!3m1!1e3!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b441b4da73d141:0x53986f2462031a67!2sBlakey+Ridge!3b1!8m2!3d38.4284603!4d-78.3394496!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4237725!4d-78.3380774\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Blakely Ridge fire tower, area to S<\/a><\/td><td>Quartz (blue, gem-quality, chatoyant)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B036'32.1%22N+78%C2%B025'12.4%22W\/@38.6089272,-78.4223027,849m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b45ce9074f64fd:0xb9050f35e2d03aef!2sPage+County,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d38.6301331!4d-78.52065!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.6089232!4d-78.4201137\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Ida, gravels of Hawkbill Creek<\/a><\/td><td>Azurite, Chrysolite, Cuprite, Epidote, Jasper, Malachite, Hematite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B027'49.1%22N+78%C2%B027'48.7%22W\/@38.4636292,-78.4657267,851m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b449137bf3f181:0xf1a7e7f87dc0485d!2sSkyline+Dr,+Virginia!3b1!8m2!3d38.4523421!4d-78.4669096!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4636246!4d-78.4635377\" target=\"_blank\">Jollett, area<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B027'49.1%22N+78%C2%B027'48.7%22W\/@38.4636292,-78.4657267,851m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b449137bf3f181:0xf1a7e7f87dc0485d!2sSkyline+Dr,+Virginia!3b1!8m2!3d38.4523421!4d-78.4669096!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4636246!4d-78.4635377\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> <\/a><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B027'49.1%22N+78%C2%B027'48.7%22W\/@38.4636292,-78.4657267,851m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b449137bf3f181:0xf1a7e7f87dc0485d!2sSkyline+Dr,+Virginia!3b1!8m2!3d38.4523421!4d-78.4669096!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4636246!4d-78.4635377\" target=\"_blank\">exposures near Skyline Drive<\/a><\/td><td>Unakite, Apatite, Chlorite, Zircon, etc.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B025'25.1%22N+77%C2%B043'39.4%22W\/@37.4236382,-77.7298087,863m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b17af0ac74fed1:0x3f0d37d970a95533!2sMoseley,+VA+23120!3b1!8m2!3d37.4153723!4d-77.7058813!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.4236338!4d-77.7276202\" target=\"_blank\">Mosely, area fields, stream gravels, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Petrified wood, Opalized wood<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B038'09.1%22N+77%C2%B023'58.9%22W\/@38.6358672,-77.4018847,849m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b657de61cde0eb:0x54ef30910309afbf!2sMinnieville,+VA+22193!3b1!8m2!3d38.636505!4d-77.352592!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.6358632!4d-77.3996956\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Minnieville, general area to W<\/a><\/td><td>Amethyst crystals, Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B051'45.7%22N+76%C2%B011'16.4%22W\/@36.8626845,-76.1896881,714m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89bac1e8fc1527a7:0x4161080a32e0173!2sVirginia+Beach,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d36.8529263!4d-75.977985!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.8626805!4d-76.187892\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Virginia Weslyan University<\/a><\/td><td>&lsquo;Clam Geodes&rsquo; (fossilized clam shells with dogtooth calcite)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B008'47.3%22N+77%C2%B042'01.7%22W\/@38.1464692,-77.7026527,855m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b6b04654394da3:0xd99206af16006028!2sBrokenburg,+VA+22551!3b1!8m2!3d38.145556!4d-77.719167!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.1464652!4d-77.7004642\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Brokenburg, mining dumps .5 mi. E of town<\/a><\/td><td>Beryl, Feldspar, Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B023'15.9%22N+77%C2%B024'20.9%22W\/@38.3877655,-77.4076461,712m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b6ef7464b65051:0x30538b43ea61aa2e!2sStafford+County,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d38.4334566!4d-77.4242972!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.3877625!4d-77.4058184\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Stafford County, all area pits, gravels, etc.<\/a><\/td><td>Vivianite<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B029'06.7%22N+77%C2%B018'50.0%22W\/@38.4851967,-77.3147699,344m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b6fbf4c992eeb1:0x4740158d9645f6ea!2sQuantico,+VA+22134!3b1!8m2!3d38.5229229!4d-77.2900787!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4851947!4d-77.3138846\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Quantico, banks and gravels of Potomac River<\/a><\/td><td>Petrified wood, Opalized wood<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B054'55.0%22N+78%C2%B008'05.7%22W\/@38.9152942,-78.1371127,846m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b5c5b42db888c3:0xda2cea8374e94e78!2sFront+Royal,+VA+22630!3b1!8m2!3d38.9181671!4d-78.1944446!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.91529!4d-78.1349244\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Front Royal, area stream gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Biotite, Quartz crystals, Unakite (gem-quality), Copper minerals<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B056'53.9%22N+78%C2%B010'59.1%22W\/@38.9483088,-78.18457,579m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b5c4205446fcef:0xd4ca17b658d8e1c4!2sRiverton,+VA+22630!3b1!8m2!3d38.9464994!4d-78.1994447!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.9483062!4d-78.1830697\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Riverton, area outcrops and gravels<\/a><\/td><td>Calcite, Quartz crystals<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where to Find Geodes in Virginia<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Geodes are some of the most popular rocks sought by rockhounds all over the world, and Virginia is no exception. Unfortunately, Virginia isn&rsquo;t known for having great geode hunting locations. In fact, I could find only a few sites where geodes have been reportedly been found.<\/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>You may feel a little discouraged to hear that, but while the locations where you can find geodes are limited, the geodes that are found there are highly unique.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The best places to find geodes in Virginia are the area just south of Virginia Wesleyan University and in the sands and gravels of Virginia Beach, especially at low tide. These geodes are actually fossilized clam shells lined with dogtooth calcite, which are fairly unique to the area.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to try your hand at finding more traditional geodes I would recommend extending your search radius and trying some sites in a neighboring state, particularly <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/kentucky-rockhounding-location-guide-map\/\" target=\"_blank\">Kentucky<\/a>, <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/kentucky-rockhounding-location-guide-map\/\" target=\"_blank\">Tennessee<\/a>, and <a href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/north-carolina-rockhounding-location-guide-map\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">North Carolina<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where to Find Crystals and Gemstones in Virginia<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full is-resized\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"602\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887.jpg\" alt=\"Amethyst\" class=\"wp-image-4073\" style=\"width:450px;height:301px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887-300x201.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887-768x514.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"602\" src=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887.jpg\" alt=\"Amethyst\" class=\"wp-image-4073 lazyload\" style=\"width:450px;height:301px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887.jpg 900w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887-300x201.jpg 300w, https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887-768x514.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 24px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/rsz_dreamstime_xxl_23289887.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Amethyst<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\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.<\/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>Virginia is prime territory for finding crystals and gemstones thanks to the many highly mineralized regions which are now being eroded by countless streams and rivers. The pegmatites and metamorphosed rocks which are exposed on the surface play host to many varieties of collectible gemstones and crystals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The best places to find crystals and gemstones in Virginia are<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B043'39.3%22N+80%C2%B030'22.5%22W\/@36.7275756,-80.5075518,521m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x885212465486dd69:0xd6f9113563bde4a5!2sLaurel+Fork,+VA+24352!3b1!8m2!3d36.7178661!4d-80.5186673!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.727573!4d-80.5062373\" target=\"_blank\">Laurel Fork<\/a> &ndash; Large quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/morefieldgemmine.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Amelia Court House<\/a> &ndash; Amazonite, Amethyst, Quartz<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B042'27.0%22N+80%C2%B027'07.4%22W\/@36.7075095,-80.4533343,512m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88526d2d1c0f8643:0xc476c80c150b4864!2sHurricane+Knob!3b1!8m2!3d36.7076363!4d-80.4531201!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7075067!4d-80.4520486\" target=\"_blank\">Hurricane Knob<\/a> &ndash; Kyanite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B038'09.1%22N+77%C2%B023'58.9%22W\/@38.6358672,-77.4018847,849m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b657de61cde0eb:0x54ef30910309afbf!2sMinnieville,+VA+22193!3b1!8m2!3d38.636505!4d-77.352592!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.6358632!4d-77.3996956\" target=\"_blank\">Minnieville<\/a> &ndash; Amethyst, Quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B044'32.9%22N+79%C2%B057'55.2%22W\/@36.7424741,-79.9664323,434m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x88527b66d94e2c7d:0xbee66ff9b9f1e155!2sSmith+River+District,+VA!3b1!8m2!3d36.7667312!4d-80.2321313!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.7424716!4d-79.9653375\" target=\"_blank\">Henry County<\/a> &ndash; Blue, gem-quality quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/37%C2%B003'07.9%22N+78%C2%B040'39.7%22W\/@37.0522073,-78.6798847,864m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m13!1m6!3m5!1s0x89b26036920d23a5:0x403244c312beee44!2sAmerican+Cancer+Society!8m2!3d37.0550991!4d-78.6376701!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d37.0522027!4d-78.6776959\" target=\"_blank\">Charlotte Courthouse<\/a> &ndash; Amethyst, Quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/36%C2%B037'52.2%22N+80%C2%B014'20.6%22W\/@36.6311811,-80.2401405,435m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x8852660015580847:0x2b8861506562ca7f!2sStuart,+VA+24171!3b1!8m2!3d36.6363992!4d-80.2693963!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d36.631179!4d-80.239049\" target=\"_blank\">Stuart<\/a> &ndash; Garnet, Kyanite, Staurolite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B029'05.7%22N+78%C2%B019'23.8%22W\/@38.484915,-78.3251591,732m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4409bd7d8a28b:0xc6fcfc368ab421f0!2sCriglersville,+VA+22727!3b1!8m2!3d38.4579042!4d-78.3011149!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.4849147!4d-78.3232734\" target=\"_blank\">Rose River<\/a> &ndash; Epidote, Quartz crystals, Unakite<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B000'29.7%22N+78%C2%B007'36.0%22W\/@38.008262,-78.1284977,719m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b4078444f563b5:0xacac10992db69da7!2sTrevilians,+VA+23093!3b1!8m2!3d38.0515275!4d-78.0727779!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.0082625!4d-78.1266585\" target=\"_blank\">Trevilians<\/a> &ndash; Amethyst, Quartz crystals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/place\/38%C2%B054'55.0%22N+78%C2%B008'05.7%22W\/@38.9152942,-78.1371127,846m\/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m14!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b5c5b42db888c3:0xda2cea8374e94e78!2sFront+Royal,+VA+22630!3b1!8m2!3d38.9181671!4d-78.1944446!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d38.91529!4d-78.1349244\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Front Royal<\/a> &ndash; Quartz crystals, Unakite<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Virginia 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 for every location 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 the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dcr.virginia.gov\/natural-heritage\/vaconvisrec\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Virginia Department of Conservation &amp; Recreation&rsquo;s maps<\/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 Virginia will have records of who owns each piece of property. You can also usually get the landowner&rsquo;s name and address by visiting the county records office. I would probably start by <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.fairfaxcounty.gov\/maps\/property\" target=\"_blank\">contacting the assessor in whatever county you&rsquo;re interested in<\/a> and getting whatever contact information you can for the landowner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sources &amp; Further Reading<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>For information on fossil hunting in Virginia, I&rsquo;d highly recommend checking out my full guide on <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/fossils-in-virginia-best-sites-with-map-types-tips\/\">Virginia fossil collecting<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\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=\"http:\/\/dnr.mo.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\">Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dmme.virginia.gov\/dgmr\/mapspubs.shtml\" target=\"_blank\">Virginia Geological Survey<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dmme.virginia.gov\/Dgmr\/pdf\/vamin\/VAMIN_VOL33_NO01.PDF\" target=\"_blank\"><em>Virginia Mineral Locality Index<\/em>, Penick Jr.<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.dcr.virginia.gov\/state-parks\/blog\/hidden-gems-of-virginia-state-parks-part-2\" target=\"_blank\">Hidden Gems of Virginia State Parks<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.dmme.virginia.gov\/dgmr\/fossils.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Division of Geology and Mineral Resources<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you&rsquo;re in Viginia and looking to do some rockhounding, you will be delighted to learn that it is a fantastic state for rock and mineral collecting. The varied topography and complicated geology of the state makes for a wide variety of interesting rocks and minerals to be collected and no shortage of places to &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3687,"comment_status":"open","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\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775-150x150.jpg",150,150,true],"medium":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775-300x200.jpg",300,200,true],"medium_large":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"large":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"2048x2048":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"post-thumbnail":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"mv_trellis_1x1":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"mv_trellis_3x4":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"mv_trellis_3x4_high_res":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"mv_trellis_3x4_med_res":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",360,240,false],"mv_trellis_3x4_low_res":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",240,160,false],"mv_trellis_4x3":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"mv_trellis_16x9":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"mv_trellis_srcset-960":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"mv_trellis_srcset-1080":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false],"1200x1200":["https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/06\/rsz_1rsz_dreamstime_xxl_134522775.jpg",400,267,false]},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Mike Rhea","author_link":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/author\/mikerhea22gmail-com\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"If you&rsquo;re in Viginia and looking to do some rockhounding, you will be delighted to learn that it is a fantastic state for rock and mineral collecting. The varied topography and complicated geology of the state makes for a wide variety of interesting rocks and minerals to be collected and no shortage of places to&hellip;","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3685"}],"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=3685"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3685\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":7197,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3685\/revisions\/7197"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3687"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3685"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3685"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/rockhoundresource.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3685"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}