Where to find agates in colorado

Map of the Agate and Zeolite locations around Wolf Creek. Rounded amygdaloids fill the voids in the volcanic deposit of basalt, as with many occurences. These host crystals of quartz and about half a dozen zeolite minerals.

The quartz and agate are similar to that found in many other volcanic silica deposits. Some have crystallized centers. Typically the crystals form on a layer of agate, which varies in thickness from miniscule shells to thick rinds. Sometimes the crystals are amethyst, making attractive specimens on dark colored volcanic matrix. Though the agate and quartz found here do not rival that found at many other locations, it is one of only a few still open for collecting.

Of course, the zeolite species are what makes the location a true Colorado classic. Colorado boasts some of the most beautiful crystals and gemstones in the world. Plentiful minerals like quartz, in all ranges of colors from smoky to rose to purple amethyst can be found in the state. Other Colorado crystals and gems include phenakite, feldspar, mica, black tourmaline, agate, topaz, fluorite, sphalerite, pyrite, garnet, jasper, peridot, sapphire, turquoise and even diamonds.

Liebigite is a fascinating gemstone found in Colorado that glows green under ultraviolet light. Gold and silver deposits have also been unearthed in Colorado. Fossils and petrified wood are two other interesting, collectible finds.

Many of the gemstones found in Colorado are in relatively accessible areas, whereas others are in more difficult terrain. Still others reside on private property and cannot be collected, as it is illegal to do so.

Read prospecting laws before you search for gemstones. In this area, a pegmatite belt with veins of rocks contains some rare gemstones. Bear in mind that the Mount Antero summit, where many of the most beautiful crystals hail from, is over 14, feet high.

Gem-quality topaz can be found in the Tarryall Mountains of Colorado. While normally yellow, topaz comes in other colors, and the prevalent color in Colorado is light blue. Some of them were as large as eight feet. Other notable minerals include columbite-tantalite and quartz. Please Note: Most pegmatites are privately owned.

In the rugged hills north of Texas Creek are some pegmatites that contain good rose quartz. That being said, while you hunt for rocks, dinosaur bones are not to be collected. Minerals: Pink or orange marble and agate, jasper, and selenite. Have more questions about the geology of the Royal Gorge Region? Know before you go. Pack it in AND pack it out. Thanks to its remarkable diversity of landscapes and a long and varied geologic history, Colorado is one of the best places in the country for amateur gold, gem, and mineral collecting.

Late summer and autumn, when the mountains are carpeted with golden aspen trees and the highest peaks are dusted with snow, are the most ideal seasons for prospecting. Founded in after placer gold was discovered nearby, the town is nestled in a high-elevation valley between two spectacular mountain ranges.