Rockhound Locations in Connecticut
Here at Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Connecticut. On top of that, we’ve created a resource page to assist with answering all of your gem and mineral collecting questions.
We hope you enjoy your time on our site and come back often because we’re always adding new dig locations and crystal collecting updates. This is a great resource for anyone who loves rockhounding, from beginners to experts alike!
Rockhounding in Connecticut is a great way to discover the state’s diverse geology and fossilized wildlife. The number of potential collecting sites here makes it an excellent location for those interested not only in rocks but also in minerals that can be found within them!
We are here for any questions or concerns that might arise about your adventures in mineral collecting.
Connecticut Rockhound Locations
Connecticut is one of the original 13 colonies located next to New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. This State still has plenty of open space despite being one of the most densely populated States in the Union. This makes it a great spot for rock hunting.
Have you ever dreamed of going on a rock-hounding adventure in Connecticut? Rockhounds can find Amethyst, Agate, Beryl, Rose Quartz, Pyrite, and Topaz. With its diverse landscape, Connecticut can be a perfect place for you to hunt for rocks!
Be polite wherever you explore. Always pack out what you packed in. Meaning if you stop for a snack while rockhounding at any site, clean up after yourself and pack your trash items back out with you.
Always do your research regarding laws and regulations, and don’t forget to ask for permission to access an area and collect specimens.
This article will discuss the top rockhound locations in Connecticut and the different types of rocks and minerals you can collect. Don’t forget to make it to the bottom of the page because we list out the best rock and mineral societies in the state. If you’re serious about collecting rocks then you’ll want to join one of these amazing clubs.
If you’re an active rock collector in Connecticut then send us an email about your favorite locations and we will feature you on the site and we might sponsor you as well. That’s right, we will pay you to go dig for rocks and minerals.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a rock-hounding journey, then grab your rock hammer, and let’s get started!
Dig For Crystals
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Mt. Carmel | 41.428144, -72.884153 | Bornite, Chalcocite |
| Hubbard Park | 41.549410, -72.835882 | Quartz |
| Pine Rock Quarry | 41.338103, -72.951217 | Calcite, Serpentine |
| Lamberts Mine | 41.306285, -72.982786 | Chalcopyrite |
| New Haven Traprock Quarry | 41.340605, -72.792152 | Amethyst |
| Slocum Prospect | 41.532222, -72.471111 | Beryl, Rose Quartz |
| Gilletete Quarry | 41.492584, -72.511230 | Amazonite, Aquamarine, Beryl, Chrysoberyl, Garnet, Quartz crystals, Tourmaline |
| Middletown | 41.578389, -72.640432 | Galena, Chalcopyrite, Sphalerite |
| Riverside Quarry | 41.557778, -72.603333 | Aquamarine, Beryl |
| White Rocks Quarry | 41.553889, -72.600278 | Beryl, Tourmaline |
| Pelton’s Quarry | 41.601111, -72.576667 | Citrine, Quartz |
| Collins Hill | 41.588269, -72.591596 | Apatite, Aquamarine, Beryl, Citrine, Feldspar, Quartz, Spodumene, Tourmaline |
| Walden Gem Quarry | 41.618889, -72.596111 | Albite, Aquamarine, Beryl, Garnet, Lepidolite, Spodumene |
| New London | 41.381341, -72.019094 | Apatite, Spodumene |
| Norwich area | 41.546834, -72.067899 | Corundum |
Connecticut’s western and northern portions are the best spots to find Agate, Quartz, and other crystals. Several retired mines and quarries in this area are accessible for rock hunters.
Litchfield County is a large area in the northwestern part of Connecticut. It borders upstate New York and has both suburban and rural portions.
You can find various Quartz, Agate, Pyrite, and Staurolite.
If you’re near Butternut Creek then you’re in luck because it is known for Pyrite, Corundum, and Staurolite. If you’re just starting out then all of these minerals are great additions to your rock collection.
Bantam Lake is just south of Litchfield County in Washinton County. The area is predominantly natural landscapes and wilderness.
This is a great spot to find various Quartz crystals, but it’s best known for Rose Quartz!
Another location you should consider is Torrington which is west of Hartford and it’s one of the best spots to find Agate and Prehnite crystals.
Dig For Gems and Gemstones
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Stafford area mines | 41.5796°N 72.3273°W | Limonite, Quartz crystals, Staurolite |
| Tolland | 41.860440, -72.377542 | Quartz crystals, Staurolite |
| Vernon | 41.818074, -72.444335 | Rose Quartz, Staurolite |
| Bridgewater | 41.562968, -73.341016 | Calamine, Galena, Cerussite, Sphalerite |
| Danbury | 41.352195, -73.473356 | Graphite |
| Greenwich | 41.104634, -73.638131 | Soapstone |
| Lane’s Mine in Monroe | 41.353056, -73.239378 | Pyrite, Sphalerite, Wolframite |
| Redding | 41.305406, -73.404788 | Graphite |
| Aldrich Park | 41.300835, -73.470359 | Quartz |
| Long Hill Mine | 41.288856, -73.226422 | Calcite, Fluorite, Pyrite, Topaz crystals |
| Wilton | 41.234861, -73.426336 | Galena, Pyrite, Wolframite, Quartz |
| Bethany | 41.464780, -72.977431 | Graphite |
| Cinque Quarry | 41.301111, -72.865278 | Amethyst, Smoky Quartz |
| Glastonbury | 41.683824, -72.558852 | Columbite, Feldspar |
| Old Simpson Quarry, Glastonbury | 41.635739, -72.619508 | Aquamarine, Smoky Quartz |
| Quarries near Hale’s Brook | 41.633219, -72.578435 | Beryl |
| Simsbury Mine | 41.962123, -72.745003 | Chalcocite, Cuprite, Malachite |
| Meriden | 41.559708, -72.795910 | Quartz, Amethyst, Calcite, Gypsum |
| Union | 41.991905, -72.133234 | Feldspar, Moonstone, Cordierite |
Canton Outcrops are excellent exposed surface rock strewn throughout the rural areas of the region. The rocky terrain is a treasure trove for rockhounding and you won’t have to go underground!
This is one of the best places to find fine Amethyst specimens.
Simsbury Mine is a rural, historical region of Connecticut. You’ll see several old historical buildings, including the old Prisoner’s Graveyard.
You’ll be able to find Copper, Chalcocite, and Malachite. Just keep in mind that summer and autumn are the best seasons for visiting the mines.
Greenwich is east of Tarrytown and the Hudson River. It’s further inland than Fairfield with various gravel yards and sediment deposits.
This spot’s ideal for finding soapstone.
Dig For Agate
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Farmington area gravels | 41.714635, -72.846380 | Agate, Prehnite |
| Torrington area | 41.857200, -73.110390 | Agate, Prehnite |
| Plum Bank Beach | 41.264774, -72.390043 | Agate, Moonstone |
Hartford County is right next to the capital and it’s spot for collecting Agate.
Lane’s Mine Nature Park is a lovely spot for rock hunting. It’s one of the best spots with an old mine and rural areas.
You’ll be able to find some nice crystal specimens of Sphalerite, Wolframite, Arsenopyrite, Bismuth, and Pyrite.
We hope this article helped you find the best spots to start rockhounding.
Is It Legal to Collect Rocks and Minerals In Connecticut?
It is generally legal to collect rocks and minerals in Connecticut. However, you might need to receive permission from the State agency to collect rocks and minerals on public lands. Avoid collecting rocks on private lands without permission from the landowners.
What Rocks Are Most Common in Connecticut?
Gneiss is one of the most common rocks found in Connecticut. If you’re looking for higher-quality rocks and minerals then you’ll want to dig and collect Quartz crystals, Agate, and Pyrite.
Rock And Mineral Societies
The Danbury Mineralogical Society meets every first Thursday of the month. Their website is still under construction, but they have plenty of information available!
They have some wonderful safety tips on their page to help you find the best quarries for rock hunting.
Bristol Gem and Mineral Society
The Bristol Gem and Mineral Society meets every second Tuesday of the month. They pride themselves as a knowledgeable group that wishes to spread their love of rocks and minerals.
Members can partake in their meetings, receive the newsletter, and join them on their field trips.
The Meriden Mineral Club prides itself as an educational club. They’re devoted to helping people share their passion for rocks, minerals, and jewelry!
Check their website in the coming New Year to find out their new meeting schedule!
