Sep 113 min read

Ohio’s Top 8 Precious Stones: Learn Where you can Find Diamonds

Updated: 3 hours ago

Ohio may not be the first place that comes to mind when searching for precious stones, but the Buckeye State is home to an impressive array of gemstones and minerals that attract rockhounding enthusiasts from near and far. From the state's official gemstone, flint, to rarer finds like fluorite and celestite, Ohio offers a variety of treasures waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re an experienced collector or a beginner, this guide will help you explore some of the top locations to find these precious stones.

Close-up of a multi-colored flint stone glowing in the sunlight, with shades of black, brown, red, and blue on its smooth surface. The background shows the rugged terrain of Flint Ridge State Memorial, with layers of sedimentary rock and scattered stones, emphasizing the stone’s connection to Ohio’s geological history.

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1. Flint

Flint is Ohio's state gemstone, prized for its hardness and historical significance. Native Americans used flint to create tools and weapons, and today, it remains highly sought after by collectors for its array of beautiful colors, which include black, brown, red, and even blue. One of the best places to find flint in Ohio is the Flint Ridge State Memorial in Licking County, where rockhounds can explore historic quarries to collect this colorful variety of quartz.

2. Celestite

Known for its calming pale blue color, celestite is another precious stone you can find in Ohio. This crystal is known for its spiritual and metaphysical benefits, especially for promoting peace and clarity of mind. Celestite is primarily found in northwestern Ohio, especially along the shores of Lake Erie and in Wood County quarries.

3. Fluorite

In Ohio, fluorite can be found in beautiful shades of purple, yellow, and brown, making it a striking addition to any rockhound’s collection. Fluorite is highly valued for its fluorescence under UV light. Some of the best places to find fluorite are Pugh Quarry and other quarries in Wood County

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4. Pyrite

Pyrite, often known as "fool's gold," is abundant in Ohio. Its metallic luster and brassy yellow hue make it a favorite among collectors. Pyrite is commonly found in former coal mines and quarries in Franklin and Delaware Counties.

5. Barite

Another noteworthy mineral in Ohio is barite, found primarily in Wood and Allen Counties. Barite’s distinct blade-like formations often come in shades of white, blue, or yellow, and it’s known for its high specific gravity, making it a unique addition to any collection.

6. Sphalerite

Sphalerite, known for its deep reddish-brown or yellowish-brown color, is a gem-quality mineral that can be found in the dolomites of southern Ohio. Look for sphalerite near quarries like Pugh Quarry.

7. Agate

Agate is less common in Ohio but can occasionally be found in places like Muskingum County and along Flint Ridge. Known for its colorful banding patterns, agate is a beautiful and valuable addition to any collection.

8. Diamonds

Surprisingly, diamonds have been found in Ohio’s glacial deposits, particularly in Clermont County. Although rare, these diamonds are a testament to Ohio’s diverse geological history.

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Top Rockhounding Locations in Ohio

Flint Ridge State Memorial (Licking County) – Best known for flint.
Pugh Quarry (Wood County) – Known for fluorite, barite, and sphalerite.
Hocking Hills Gem Mine – A family-friendly location offering opportunities to pan for gemstones like amethyst and peridot(YesDirt).

Family at Hocking Hills Gem Mine panning for colorful gemstones like amethyst and peridot. Bright, glittering gems sparkle in the water as children and parents eagerly search for treasures. The sunlight enhances the vivid colors of the gemstones, creating a fun, heartwarming atmosphere that highlights the excitement of gem mining.

Practical Tips for Collecting Stones in Ohio

Equipment: If you’re heading to a quarry or rocky terrain, bring essentials like a rock hammer, chisel, and gloves. For beginners visiting places like Hocking Hills Gem Mine, panning supplies are usually provided.
Best Times to Visit: While you can collect stones year-round, visiting during the warmer months (spring through fall) ensures more accessibility, as some quarries close during the winter.
Safety Guidelines: Always check the rules before collecting stones, especially in public parks or private quarries. Bring appropriate gear, and remember to cover up any digging sites to ensure the safety of future visitors.

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FAQs

What precious stones can be found in Ohio?

In Ohio, you can find flint, celestite, fluorite, pyrite, barite, sphalerite, agate, and even diamonds.

Where can I go rockhounding in Ohio?

Some of the best places for rockhounding in Ohio include Flint Ridge State Memorial for flint, Pugh Quarry for fluorite and sphalerite, and Hocking Hills Gem Mine for a family-friendly experience.

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