Gem mines in virginia In the southwest portion of the state, there is an interesting mineral crystal that forms the shape of a cross. history, but what is commonly known about gold mining practices in nineteenth-century Virginia? Two chancery causes found during the reprocessing of Albemarle County chancery court records shed some light on Virginia gold mining practices during the 1850s and 1860s and the conflict that arose surrounding a Jan 2, 2025 · Nevada offers a treasure trove of opportunities for rockhounding enthusiasts. Located near Winterham, near Amelia Court House. EDIT: What are some of your experiences from said mines? Do Starting in 1873, the Con Virginia and the California Mine (Mackay’s other mine), produced about $3 million per month for three years. Quarry – near Bent Creek bornite, calcite, chalcopyrite, dolomite, pyrite, sphalerite Augusta Co. Virginia boasts a wide array of fossils – from 540 million year old burrows (Skolithos) to one million year old Mastodon teeth. We stand behind our products because our name is on the line with every bag we ship. , there are likely many exciting rockhounding sites nearby. Memories of a 2015 Tour of the Morefield Mine in Amelia, Virginia by Kathy Hrechka, MSDC Member and MNCA Editor, with input from Laura Dwyer, Mike Kass, and Kenny Reynolds Kathy Hrechka and Laura Dwyer exploring huge microclines (variety amazonite) underground at the Morefield Mine in Amelia, VA. Jul 10, 2025 · Discover the best places to find gold in Virginia! Our guide highlights top locations, saving you time and effort while maximizing your chances of striking it rich. It’s an interactive history and geology lesson…pioneer style. Jun 14, 2023 · The California Gold Rush of 1849 is a universal topic of study in courses surveying U. This guide delves into the best public gem mining sites in Virginia Famously popular, Hiddenite Gem Mines is known for the discovery of some of the largest gems in the world. Apr 18, 2025 · Plan your gem hunting trip with our expert guide to top spots. Pack your rock hammer for some of the best gem hunting in Nevada. Happy hunting! Jan 2, 2025 · Learn about the different kinds of rocks, minerals, and gems in West Virginia and the best places that make our state a rockhound's paradise. This guide delves into the best public gem mining sites in Virginia Virginia is home to hidden adventures for gem hunters! 💎 Discover the top public gem mining spots in the state, from amethyst at Morefield Gem Mine to smoky Oct 14, 2025 · Longview Coal Mine is an operating coal mine in Barbour County, West Virginia, United States. Jan 24, 2025 · Hidden Gems of Virginia's Pyrite Mines Virginia's pyrite mines hold more than just mineral wealth. Silver and gold made Virginia City an iconic mining town, one that will forever be recognized as one of the greatest. 2, published in 2000, describes the recently produced minerals from the Morefield Gem Mine, which include cleavelandite, monazite, tantalite, and muscovite, as well as amazonite, a gem-quality microcline feldspar, for which this locale is well-known, although this permitted site is no longer producing. Today this sluice mining station provides fun interactive history and geology lessons. The Morefield Gem Mine is one of the few operating mines in the United States where collecting is allowed on a regular basis. Apr 12, 2024 · Embark on a journey through Gem Mining West Virginia, exploring its renowned sites and historic finds. Morefield Gem Mine is located in Amelia County, Virginia. Morefield Gem Mine: Learn more about the historic Morefield Gem You’ll dig rockhounding in Nevada, where you can search for turquoise, garnet, black fire opal, and more across the Silver State. The map above provides links to pages listing past collecting locations and working mines / prospects some with minerals reported for the location. We are a host to more than 60 different types of naturally occurring gems and minerals, a treasure Oct 2, 2025 · We've included the best locations for gem mining in Nevada on this thorough list. So, let’s take a look at some of the gemstone mines in Virginia that are open to the public. Today, rockhounding in Virginia continues this legacy of discovering nature’s hidden jewels. Kyanite Mining Corporation is a 4th generation family-owned and operated business. The mineral is mined in Amelia County of Virginia in the Rutherford and Morefield mines. We made reservations a few weeks before and we had the 10 a. And it’s the perfect opportunity for kids and adults of all ages to roll up their sleeves, get their hands wet, and discover a truly good time. A gemology-themed vacation can be fun, educational, and (maybe) profitable. Whether you're a seasoned rock collector or a curious traveler, Burke's Garden's quartz mines promise an unforgettable experience. Home to Virginia's only dig it yourself Gem mine. Mar 26, 2024 · Gem mining is one of the top attractions in the Blue Ridge Mountains, ranging from North Carolina to Virginia. Monroe Park and the Museum opened in October 1998. Telephone number was 804-561-3399 (Sweet and Penick, 1986, p. Mining Rough Bags are enriched with a satisfying variety of large specimens. The mine used to open for three Famously popular, Hiddenite Gem Mines is known for the discovery of some of the largest gems in the world. West Virginia rockhounding maps to hunt for crystals, gemstones, minerals, and ores. A main joint has a strike of N42°E and a dip of 74°NW. Gold, pyrite, zinc, and copper mines in the eastern, south-central, and southwest portion of the state pose public safety hazards due to hazardous open mine shafts at many of the mines, and environmental hazards from acidic drainage, mine waste, and stream sedimentation. Morefield Gem Mine – I guess this is about the number one location for the pebble pups. New Jersey Zinc Mine: Learn more about the historic New Jersey Zinc Company mine in Wythe County, the longest continously mined site in the United States. Allen mines (copper) – Location: Nelson County, Sherando quadrangle, 2. West Virginia is, of course, famous for its coal mines. Explore the best gem mining locations in VA with our ultimate guide. Let’s go over some of the most common rocks, minerals, and gems that collectors seek out in the Old Dominion state. There is almost no history of mining precious metals like gold or silver. 22901- 804 973 3398 Seminole Square Shopping Center The Rock Garden- 102 Great Oaks Drive, Madison heights, Va. From colorful minerals to dazzling gemstones, the state has it all. The mine offers a variety of sluicing options and is a great option for local rockhounds. If you want it mailed to your address, there is a $10 fee. Photo by Ken Reynolds. The state is also home to interesting minerals, including garnet, epidote, and pyrite, making it a For those who are familiar with the Morefield Mine in Amelia County, Virginia, this article appears in the January 1997 issue of The Collecting Bag, the newsletter of the Richmond Gem & Mineral Society. May 16, 2024 · As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases with no additional costs for you. Pegmatites in the Morefield Gem Mine in Amelia County, Virginia contain several common minerals including bluish-green amazonite, black platy biotite, milky-white platy cleavlandite (albite plagioclase), and the grey, glassy mineral quartz. 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. While not as famous for gem mining as some western states, West Virginia offers unique opportunities for amateur and experienced rockhounds alike. Jan 2, 2025 · We thoroughly searched the whole state to find geodes in Virginia and created a list of top locations we suggest you should visit! Keep reading to learn more. This article discusses top sites you can visit for rockhounding Virginia, ranging from popular commercial sites to the hidden sites. Known for its amazonite, quartz, and other minerals, this historical mine offers a unique opportunity to dig up precious stones while learning about geology. , which offers flume mining. At Appalachian Gem and Gold Mine, we pride ourselves on offering meticulously crafted paydirt buckets designed to delight and amaze. While large-scale commercial mining operations are generally private, several public locations allow you to experience the thrill of gem mining. These mines charge a digging fee, but with that you’ll get expert advice, and some offer free camping and other amenities. Jan 28, 2018 · Virginia was one of the richest gold mining states in the Appalachians. School trips may choose from 5 educational tours. Looking to dig for Geodes, Crystals, and Gemstones in West Virginia? Best locations for rock and mineral collectors and easy-to-follow driving and "how-to". I also work with international gems. Mining for iron ore, copper and manganese was an industry in this area. West Virginia is mainly known for its beautiful countryside and coal mines, but there’s a lot more to be found here. It was a nice experience and a fun time. The state unfurls rolling hills, majestic mountains, and lush valleys. At Seneca Caverns, you can enjoy cave tours, adventure caving (in West Virginia's oldest recorded cave), gemstone mining, and plenty of outdoor fun in one of the most beautiful parts of West Virginia. Here's a list of rocks and minerals found in West Virginia. We reveal expert-verified locations and practical tips for your diamond hunting adventure. Morefield Mine has been in operation since 1929 and is one of the most famous gem and mineral mines in the eastern United States. Ready to mine? Moonshine Mining Company is the premier location for gemstone panning and mining attractions in our area. Aug 28, 2025 · Here are the different rocks, minerals, gems, and crystals of Virginia, including details on what makes them unique and photos of how they look like. Get ready to look in these places for rare and common gemstones! Aug 1, 2025 · Find out where to mine your own sapphires in Montana, including popular spots like the Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine and the Butte Mineral and Gem Club. Stay informed and enjoy your adventure responsibly! Morefield Mine, located in Amelia County, Virginia, is a hidden gem for mineral enthusiasts and families alike. At this Great Smoky Mountain-area mine in Franklin, North Carolina, about 60 miles southwest of Blowing Rock, you Nov 14, 2025 · While spotting these gems can be tough at first, the folks at Bonanza, Rainbow Ridge, and Royal Peacock opal mines are all ready to assist you in your hunt. Sep 2, 2021 · Before you travel to Virginia for your next rockhounding expedition, use this guide to help you plan where to go and what to collect during your Old Dominion adventures. Today the Mid-Lothian Mines Park has exhibits depicting Virginia's coal mining history surrounded by walking trails and beautiful woodlands. Seneca caverns is a complete destination and a great adventure. It’s renowned for its rich deposits of shale, sandstone, and limestone, which provide a foundation for a wide range of fascinating rocks and minerals. The state Sep 1, 2016 · AMELIA, Va. Jul 1, 2021 · Trex Mini Golf and Gem Mine in Charleston, West Virginia, offers a dinosaur-themed mini golf experience and gem mining adventure. , 24572-5000 804-846-ONYX – (Jewelry, Decorator Pieces, Mineral Specimens) Your students will learn the rock cycle with an educational Gem Mining Tour Field Trip to Great Country Farms in Northern Virginia. Discover hidden spots, family-friendly areas, and tools for a successful gem-hunting trip. May 5, 2021 · The Gold Mining Camp Museum at Monroe Park is the only museum in Virginia solely dedicated to the history of gold and gold mining. There are still plenty of places where you can do some panning and find good gold. Convenient to get to, just off I-64. slot. Exploring these mines, you can uncover stories of hardworking miners, the industrial boom, and the natural beauty that surrounds them. What began as an accidental discovery has blossomed into a thriving gem mining Jul 16, 2015 · On May 27, 2023, my friend and I visited the Lucky Lake gem and mineral mine in McKenney, VA. Gem Mining Sluice Hands-on History and Geology Experience In the 18 th and 19 th century prospectors used sluices to find precious minerals. Rockhounding Virginia Virginia is a good state for rockhounding. The rocks have a strike of N75°E and a dip of 30°SE. There is a long history of mining in western Virginia, and there are far too many old mines and prospects Welcome to our completely recreated, fully operational, filled-with-fun mining station; The Stonyman Mining Company Gem Sluice. The mine is a great introduction to minerals and mineral collecting at a real mine. Prepare to travel to these places in search of valuable gemstones! Apr 4, 2025 · Explore the rich history of Virginia City, Nevada, where Gold Rush-era landmarks meet scenic vistas and unique attractions. Both of us purchased the $70 bucket which includes 1 free cut gem stone. Jan 17, 2025 · Table of Contents West Virginia, a state renowned for its stunning Appalachian landscapes and rich history, holds a surprising secret: a diverse array of gemstones waiting to be discovered. Purchase a bag of mining rough in our gift shop and pan for amethysts, gemstones, arrowheads and more through the running water, just as miners did in days gone past. Go gem mining for real gemstones and gold like the prospectors from the 1800's. Do you guys have any recommendations on gem mines that are open to the public and allow you to sift from the raw as they do from the Morefield gem mine? Thanks. Virginia boasts diverse rockhounding opportunities, with popular locations such as the Morefield Mine, known for its amazonite and other minerals, and the James River area, where you can find a variety of fossils. After 22 years in production, the two mines would produce $180 million in both silver and gold. 4,445 likes · 2 talking about this. . 5 miles (4. Gold Hill Mines Historic Park: This park is located in Gold Hill and is dedicated to the history of gold mining in Virginia. Appomattox Lime Co. We are nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Brushy Mountains located in Hiddenite North Carolina. Feb 28, 2025 · This hidden gem in Virginia provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and geological wonder. Whether you're a seasoned rockhound or just looking for a fun day out with the family, Lucky Lake is the perfect place to discover hidden treasures beneath the earth. The Gold Mining Camp Museum at Monroe Park, the official Gold Mining Interpretive Center for the Commonwealth of Virginia, is the only museum in Virginia solely dedicated to the history of gold and gold mining. It doesn't matter where you live we know a great gem mine close by. We've compiled some fantastic places within two hours of the city limits for you to go rockhounding near Reno! To start off I've been to the Morefield mine here in VA a couple of times and really loved it and would like to visit some of the other mines that the states have to offer. – On Labor Day weekend back in 1991, Richard Seaver and his friends were digging around in the Old Rutherford Mines for Virginia gems and minerals. The mining public descends on these piles looking for the best treasures that are on top and then take buckets of earth over to the water sluice to filter out the hidden gems. So, if you want to add some unique and special finds to your rockhounding collection, plan a Jan 2, 2025 · We've experienced the excitement and thrill of finding crystals in West Virginia, and we'll help you find the most incredible and amazing crystals here, too! Apr 10, 2024 · Looking for a new way to explore the outdoors in West Virginia and even take a piece of it home? Rockhounding could become your newest hobby. The mine is renowned for its wide variety of minerals, particularly amazonite, a green to blue-green variety of feldspar that is highly prized Jan 2, 2025 · Discover where to mine for agate in West Virginia and the types of agates you can find in the state's diverse geological terrains. Jan 2, 2025 · Rockhounding sites in Northeastern West Virginia Northeastern West Virginia is a hidden gem for rockhounding enthusiasts, offering a remarkable blend of natural beauty and geological treasures. 0 km) north-northeast of Wintergreen on the southeast side of Crawford Knob (N 4,198,600 E 686,120, Zone 17). Jan 14, 2025 · Table of Contents Virginia, with its rich geological history, offers exciting opportunities for amateur rockhounds and gemstone enthusiasts to unearth their own treasures. This fun, hands-on activity can be added to your ticket in advance, making it a great addition to your visit! Jan 14, 2025 · Table of Contents Virginia, with its rich geological history, offers exciting opportunities for amateur rockhounds and gemstone enthusiasts to unearth their own treasures. This area has two highly mineralized pegmatite dikes, mined in the Rutherford and the Morefield Mines. No matter your age, you'll feel like you're on a real-life treasure hunt as you learn to find and identify rare crystals and gems. Explore the best public gem mines in Virginia. The One West Virginia Airbnb You Need to Book for Epic Dark Sky Views Do you know any dinosaur lovers? Then it's time to start planning an outing with them to Charleston . Nov 1, 2024 · The Morefield Gem Mine. They offer a glimpse into the state's rich history and geological wonders. Amelia Co. 17). If you want it mounted, there's an extra fee. Jan 2, 2025 · Here’s a guide on where to find quartz in Virginia, including best locations and types of quartz available in the state for enthusiasts. Whether you visit the towering Appalachian Mountains or the shores of Chesapeake Bay, you’ll find that there are many collectible rocks and minerals scattered throughout Virginia. Our team takes great care in selecting the finest gemstones, ensuring each scoop promises a treasure trove of beauty and wonder. Oct 2, 2023 · Virginia : Rutherford Mines and Morefield Mine, Amelia County: found in pegmatite. For those interested in gem hunting more generally, Virginia has numerous mines and rivers where hobbyists can search for a variety of semi-precious stones. Nov 16, 2023 · One of the closest ways to experience this thrill is by taking a trip to Lucky Lake Gem Mine in Virginia, where you can pan for unique gemstones. Dive deeper and experience the thrill. Mar 17, 2019 · Lucky Lake Gem and Mineral Mine is located in McKenney Virginia. Contained in these location guides are maps and links to GPS coordinates where you can begin your very … The Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine is a “placer” gem mine. Find out what these locations are through and get started. and you should do more research before visiting / collecting there. I personally mine, cut, & polish Virginia gems, and create settings of silver or gold. The state is also home to minerals like garnet, kyanite, and tourmaline, providing a range of In 2022, Virginia Energy, in cooperation with USGS and funding from the National Geological and Geophysical Data Preservation Program (NGGDPP) grant, began archiving historic mining records and specimen photographs from the Morefield Gem Mine in Amelia County, Virginia. The Morefield Gem Mine in Amelia County is a popular destination, known for its amazonite, but also yields garnets, amethysts, and topaz among other gemstones. The Morefield Gem Mine was discovered and mining began in 1929. It is temporarily closed as of May 2022. This was the site of first recorded commercial coal mining in North America. See map of abandoned mineral mined lands » In this same region of the state, abandoned sand and gravel mines provide Experience the thrill of gem mining at Lost World Caverns! Choose from small, big, or mega bags of mining material and uncover real gemstones and minerals. Jul 23, 2018 · In addition to the Morefield Gem Mine, there is the Lucky Lake Gem and Mineral Mine, located just west of McKenney, Va. In Virginia minerals are mined for industrial purposes, collected by enthusiasts, and used for scientific research to help us better understand the Earth. Discover the top gems found in West Virginia, including silicified coral, amethyst, and opal. Jan 24, 2024 · Discover the joy of rockhounding in Virginia with our guide spotlighting prime locations & treasures to be found! Get tips on tools, safety, and legal practices to ensure an enjoyable and responsible adventure. There are The Gemstone Mining Sluice is a family favorite here at Shenandoah Caverns. Virginia is home to hidden adventures for gem hunters! 💎 Discover the top public gem mining spots in the state, from amethyst at Morefield Gem Mine to smoky Sep 24, 2025 · This article has all the information you need about the best spots for gem mining in Tennessee. The largest concentration of mines was found in the present-day Midlothian area. With its diverse geological landscape and rich mineral deposits, Nevada presents a playground for those eager to uncover nature’s hidden treasures. Aug 28, 2025 · The best places to mine gems in Virginia are along hillsides, creeks, rivers, and loose at quarries, mine dumps, and pay-to-dig mines. Seneca Caverns offers group and educational tours. This guide explores the possibilities of gem mining in the VIRGINIA is a wonderful place for Rockhouders. The only gem mine in West Virginia is located in the beautiful Appalachian mountains, in the Southern part of the state. An article in Virginia Minerals vol. The Morefield Mine is located at 13400 Butler Road, Amelia Court House, VA 23002, United States. 46, no. Over time, mining operations grew, unearthing gemstones like Amethyst and Azurite. Dec 26, 2019 · Pages in category "Existing coal mines in West Virginia" The following 147 pages are in this category, out of 147 total. S. This state contains a wide variety of rocks and mineral and numerous places to find them. This guide delves into the best public gem mining sites in Virginia The mine’s official address at that point was Powhatan Mining Company, Route 4, Box 310, Amelia, Virginia 23002. Virginia rockhounding maps to hunt for crystals, gemstones, minerals, and ores. This guide delves into the best public gem mining sites in Virginia West Virginia gets a bad rap for lopping off the tops of their mountains and, sadly, it's not without good reason. Pennsylvania : Media, Delaware County; Middletown, Delaware County: found in pegmatite. Nestled in the small town of McKenney, Virginia, Lucky Lake Gem Mine offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It's fun for the entire family. No matter where you live in the U. Sep 4, 2021 · The best rockhounding spots in West Virginia Interestingly, West Virginia doesn’t have certain stones that most other states have, such as agates, but it does contain rocks and minerals that tend to be rare in other states, such as petrified wood, silicified coral, smoky quartz, and pyrite cubes. Most if not all locations are closed, restricted, reclaimed, built upon, etc. Very friendly staff helpful with identification and will polish your best found stone for you. Sep 16, 2025 · We found the top places for gem mining in North Carolina, both for beginners and experts. Pack your gear, bring your curiosity, and get ready to uncover the secrets of this remarkable place. Apr 4, 2025 · Discover the best locations to find sapphires in Virginia. It features a number of historic structures, including a mine entrance, stamp mill, and blacksmith shop, as well as several trails that lead to gold-bearing streams. Historic Sites Points of Interest & Landmarks Churches & Cathedrals Farms Mines Show all Traveler rating & up Good for Less than 1% of kimberlite pipes bring gem-quality diamonds to the surface, and none of the diamonds found in Virginia are in Rockbridge or Warren counties near the two potential in-state sources. West Virginia offers unique rockhounding experiences, with popular sites like the Spruce Knob area, where you can find beautiful quartz crystals, and the Nuttall Sandstone Formation, known for its plant fossils. You may view the exhibits, visit the gift shop, or mine you own gem stones. Learn about the types of gems you can find and tips for a successful gem hunting adventure. Gem mines in Virginia are diverse and captivating, perfect for budding rockhounds to explore. Jul 13, 2025 · Discover the best spots to find diamonds in Virginia. The term “placer” refers to mineral bearing deposits of ancient sand, dirt, and gravel which were left behind by ancient glaciers, rivers, or other flowing waters, also known as “alluvial deposits”. A total of perhaps 10,000 minerals may be found naturally on earth, but so far less than 5,600 have been identified from 300,000 localities around the world by the International Mineralogical Association. Western Virginia Rockhounding Sites Western Virginia is probably the best part of the state to go rockhounding. One of the fantastic things about rockhounding is the sheer variety of options available in Nevada Morefield Mine (Morefield pegmatite), Winterham, Amelia County, Virginia, USA : A feldspar-mica and specimen mine in the Morefield pegmatite. The Morefield Gem Mine is a unique experience for children and adults alike. Since the 1940s, the Dixon family has been producing high quality Kyanite and Mullite products in central Virginia for use all over the world. North Carolina's top rated gem mine. The list of minerals below highlights a few of the most common or popular minerals that are found in Virginia. We share expert-verified spots for successful gem hunting. state including thousands of rockhounding sites – and continue to add more every day. Jan 2, 2025 · We have put together a giant list of the best places to find gem mines near you. Jun 27, 2023 · Looking for the best gem mining in West Virginia? If you're a geology enthusiast West Virginia has plenty to offer. On top of that, we’ve created a resource page to assist with answering all of your gem and mineral collecting questions. Mike Wise presented “Pegmatites, Earth’s Most Amazing Rocks” to Jan 14, 2025 · Table of Contents Virginia, with its rich geological history, offers exciting opportunities for amateur rockhounds and gemstone enthusiasts to unearth their own treasures. m. Discover the best public gem mines in Virginia, including Morefield Gem Mine and Lucky Lake Gem Mine. Appomattox Co. I have created guides for every U. The number of known minerals grew by 25% after 2000, as scientists used new technology to analyze crystal structures and complex mathematics to predict how minerals could have formed. Apr 30, 2021 · Kingston No 1 is an underground coal mining operation in Fayette County, West Virginia, operated by Kingston Mining and part of Foundation Coal's Kingston Mines. However, as I've ventured into the "Wild and Wonderful" state on weekend excursions over the past 7 years, I've discovered if you search hard enough and look in the right places, you can find some truly amazing gems in West Virginia. You can find sapphires, rubies, tiger's eye, emeralds, amethysts, and more! Some attractions even offer to set your finds into jewelry of your own, as well as polish and cut them. The mine is located in Amelia County, Virginia, and is open to the public for recreational digging and educational tours. This story map will place a greater emphasis on the Morefield Gem Mine. Continue reading if you want to learn more about finding crystals in Virginia! Jan 2, 2025 · If you're seeking the thrill of the chase, gem mining in West Virginia is perfect for you! Read this article to know the best places to search for gems here. Welcome to the Facebook page of The Morefield Gem Mine, located in Amelia VA. Feldspar Feldspar is a commonly occurring mineral in Virginia in the igneous and metamorphic rocks. In Emerald Hollow Mine is the only Emerald Mine in the world open to the public for prospecting. The principal country rocks are chlorite green- stone, schists and phyllites. The Commonwealth is well known for its amazonite as well as its many caverns. For more than 80 years the mine has produced many varieties of mineral specimens and is open to the public. The mineral is generally used as a gemstone and is found in green and greenish - blue colors owing to the presence of lead. Sep 9, 2023 · Explore the best gem mining spots in Vermont! Unravel the Green Mountain State's geology, history, and hidden jewels. Gems found include Sodalite, Jasper, Adventurine, and garnets, just to name a few. Two other gem mines to note are Scufflin’ Acres and Earthen Paradise — enough for you to treasure hunt to your heart’s desire. Jan 19, 2025 · Discover the secrets of West Virginia's hidden mine, exploring its rich history, untold stories, and the treasures that lie beneath. This may not be a comprehensive list of public gem mines in Virginia, but it is a great place to start your search. Learn where to find these gems and the best tips for a successful rockhounding trip. Beyond that, mining in West Virginia is mostly limited to sand and limestone quarries where you can often find minerals like dolomite, calcite, and siderite. This is recognized as one of the most unique and interesting geological locations in North America. Central Morefield Gem Mine, 13400 Butlers Rd, Amelia Court House, VA, 23002-2909, 804-561-3399 The Crystal Connection – 216 Zan Road, Charlottesville, Va. Ready to rockhound northwestern Nevada? Be sure to call ahead. Whether you're an experienced collector or a family looking for a fun day trip, Morefield Mine promises an exciting adventure. Here at Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Virginia. Jan 2, 2025 · We've looked throughout Virginia for the finest areas to find crystals. We detail a few outstanding choices below, such as Morefield Mine, Willis Mountain Kyanite Mine, and Pittsylvania Wayside Park. Sep 28, 2016 · Morefield Mine (Amelia County, Virginia) Morefield Mine sits 300 feet beneath Amelia, Virginia, and is known for its Amazonite. Jan 26, 2024 · Explore the exciting world of rockhounding in West Virginia! Our guide offers tips for beginners, safety advice, legal guidelines, and the best spots for discovering geological treasures. Find out where to dig for gems like quartz, garnet, and fairy stones with our guide to the top gem-hunting locations in VA. The diamonds found in Virginia could have been brought to the surface in what is now Kentucky, Arkansas, the Wyoming/Colorado border, or in Canada. Jan 2, 2025 · Rockhounding in Virginia is a rewarding and enjoyable activity, but it’s important to adhere to local and state laws, especially those from the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy (DMME). Dr. Focus on Historic Mines in Virgina: Mid-Lothian Mine: Learn more aboutabout the birthplace of Virginia's coal mining history at the Mid-Lothian Mine Park in Chesterfield County. Comprised of several mines, Hiddenite Gem Mine’s group includes Emerald Hollow Mine—which is open for public mining—Adams Mine and NAEM (North American Emerald Mine).