Rockhound Locations in Georgia
Here at the Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Georgia. On top of that, we’ve created a resource page to assist with answering all of your gem and mineral collecting questions.
Rockhounding in Georgia 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 with rocks, but also minerals that can be found within them!
Gemstones like corundum, rubies and quartz can be found in abundance throughout Georgia. Some of the most sought-after specimens are amethysts (the stone used for jewelry making), staurolite crystals which have been known to grow as large as 5 carats! And if you’re looking for something really special – there might even just happen to exist a few diamonds too…
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!
We are here for any questions or concerns that might arise about your adventures in mineral collecting.
Georgia Rockhound Locations
Georgia is a great state for rock and mineral collectors because you have the mountains in the north and mineral-rich areas in the south.
My favorite locations are Graves Mountain, 5lb Fanin county garnets near lick skillet rd., Hogg Mine, and Jackson’s Crossroads.
The best time to go rockhounding in Georgia is during the spring and fall because the weather will be perfect and the Georgia clay will be on the softer side.
If you’ve never dug in Georiga clay then you’ll know what I’m talking about after your first shovel full.
North Georgia Rocks and Minerals
North Georgia is rich in minerals like garnets, staurolite (fairy crosses), agate, jasper, amethyst, and petrified wood. This area is ideal for junior rockhounds and seasoned professionals.
Take a look at the gemstone map below for a couple of great locations to dig for and collect some amazing minerals.
Georgia Gemstone Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Emerson, US 41 Bridge | 34.157041, -84.769919 | Barite |
| Carrollton area | 33.586997, -85.040011 | Garnet crystals |
| Villa Rica | 33.731081, -84.919021 | Pyrite |
| Graysville area | 34.941851, -85.117679 | Barite, Calcite, Fluorite |
| Ball Ground | 34.306315, -84.398172 | Staurolite |
| Sharp Mountain | 34.437638, -84.501340 | Staurolite |
| Bluff Creek | 34.347224, -84.455098 | Staurolite |
| Lithonia area | 33.729688, -84.099633 | Calcite, Garnet, Tourmaline |
| Fannin County | 34.896810, -84.298960 | Staurolite |
| Bremen area | 33.690624, -85.215954 | Quartz crystals |
| Garnet Hill area | 33.883495, -84.798152 | Garnets |
| Soquee River | 34.644808, -83.507123 | Kyanite crystals |
| Tallula Falls area | 34.744549, -83.392985 | Citrine, Smoky quartz |
| Charlie’s Creek, near Hiawassee | 34.978333, -83.586236 | Amethyst |
| Hogg Mine | 32.991054, -85.029754 | Aquamarine, Beryl, Black Tourmaline |
| Hurricane Creek | 32.926370, -84.450024 | Beryl, Kyanite |
South Georgia Rocks and Minerals
LaGrange, Troup County offers some of the state’s most unique and exciting rockhounding experiences. With its vast array of geological formations, LaGrange is a treasure trove of exciting finds. The Hogg Mine offers a wealth of possible discoveries, with the potential to discover the following:
- Quartz
- Agate
- Calcite
- Pyrite
- Petrified wood
- Jasper
- Amethyst
- Aquamarine
- Garnet
Whether a novice or an experienced rockhound, you’ll surely find something to pique your interest.
Georgia Agate and Jasper Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Kingston area streams | 34.221566, -84.946085 | Banded agate, Jasper |
| Summerville | 34.470213, -85.317020 | Agate, Chalcedony |
| Summerville area | 34.456985, -85.414829 | Banded Agate |
| Tarr Creek near Dalton | 34.757099, -84.989666 | Red Jasper |
| Clarksville area | 34.613850, -83.562784 | Banded Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper |
| Milledgeville area | 33.006923, -83.224188 | Jasper |
| Macon area | 32.924307, -83.51892 | Agate |
| Round Oak, area | 33.105810, -83.632495 | Agate, Jasper, Petrified wood |
| Warm Springs area | 32.886670, -84.661525 | Agate, Jasper |
| Lake Tchukolaho shores | 32.910766, -83.307432 | Agate, Jasper, Chalcedony |
| Girard area | 33.066263, -81.646043 | Savannah River Agate, Chalcedony |
| Sparta area, gravels, streams | 33.261067, -82.995711 | Carnelian, Chalcedony, Jasper |
| Cordele area streams, gravels | 31.976360, -83.797479 | Moss agate, Jasper |
| Withlacoochee River | 30.641400, -83.320078 | Agatized coral |
Jackson’s Crossroads Mine
With its easily accessible location and ample mining supplies, Jackson’s Crossroads mine offers an ideal environment to discover rare rocks and gems, such as:
- Quartz
- Garnet
- Tourmaline
Jackson’s Crossroads Mine is a great opportunity to connect with nature. So, take the plunge and dive into the mine to discover its many wonders.
Georgia Petrified Wood Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Round Oak area | 33.105810, -83.632495 | Petrified wood |
| Chattahoochee River | 32.514026, -84.996223 | Opalized wood |
| Bull Creek near Columbus | 32.482495, -84.910263 | Petrified wood |
| Columbus, Randall Creek | 32.437564, -84.797250 | Silicified Wood |
What are Georgia’s Rockhound Rules and Regulations?
Before heading out on a rockhounding trip in Georgia, it’s important to make sure you are aware of the Rockhound Rules and Regulations. Some of the regulations require that:
- All amateur rockhounds obtain a free permit before engaging in any rockhounding activities
- No rocks or minerals may be collected or removed from any state-owned parks or lands
- Visitors must not use any power tools or explosives to collect rocks
- All sites must be restored to their original condition after the activity is finished
- You only collect rocks in designated areas, using only hand tools
Rock and Mineral Societies
The Augusta Gem & Mineral Society is an incredible organization that studies and appreciates gems, minerals, and fossils. They strive to provide top-notch educational content and access to like-minded individuals.
Membership is open to any interested individual, including children. As a member of this society, you will have access to a wealth of resources and the chance to meet and exchange ideas with fellow enthusiasts. You’ll get to participate in field trips and meetings to help you further your knowledge.
The Society charges annual dues of:
- $1 for juniors
- $15 for singles
- $20 for families
The Athens Rock & Gem Club is full of friendly, knowledgeable members dedicated to helping you discover the fascinating world of rocks and gems.
To join the club, you may pay the following:
- $15.00 if you’re a single adult
- $17.50 for a family of two
- $20.00 for a family of three and above.
Whether you’re interested in collecting pieces for a personal collection, learning to make jewelry, or simply exploring the earth’s history, you’ll find something enjoyable in the club.
The Georgia Mineral Society, Inc. has made great strides in promoting and preserving earth science. The Society is committed to advocating for and advancing the knowledge of minerals, gems, and fossils. It accomplished this through its:
- Lectures
- Workshops and seminars
- Monthly meetings
- Field trips
- GMS building
- GMS for kids
- Camaraderie
Standard membership for singles and families is $25. By joining the Society, you can learn from enthusiastic experts and explore the wonders of Georgia’s geology.
The Rome Georgia Mineral Society is another incredible organization. It provides its members with remarkable opportunities to explore the fascinating world of minerals and gemstones.
Members get the opportunity to:
- Attend educational, fun-filled seminars and workshops
- Visit local rockhounding sites
- Cultivate relationships with other members
The Society’s goal is to create an exceptional community that explores the wonders of the earth.
