Dig Hematite and Limonite at Florence Iron Mine
The Florence Iron Mine was active in the late 1800s but closed down in the middle of the 1900s.
You’ll be digging through the tailing piles and the actual open pit mine if you can make it. The path to the mine is heavily overgrown and you’ll want to go during the winter months so the vegetation is not as thick.
This mine produces Hematite, Siderite, limonite, magnetite and grunerite.
This location should be left to the experienced and dedicated rockhound due to the overgrown trail.
Keep reading below to learn more about what to bring, clothing types, and driving directions.
Types of Minerals
You’ll be digging and collecting two types of iron-based minerals.
- Hematite – red to dark gray in color. You’ll find mostly chunks with botryoidal effects.
- Limonite – mostly yellowish-orange-looking rock.
The minerals at this location are fairly easy to recognize due to their distinct colors. Keep an eye out for metallic-looking stones and you’ll be sure to come home with something.
Tools and Tips For Crystals Digs
A crystal prospector will want to pack a variety of tools for this trip. They should have snacks and drinks in case they get thirsty or hungry, as well as packing materials for minerals collected onsite. Don’t forget about the weather and make sure to dress appropriately.
Must-Have Tools and Accessories
- Sunscreen
- 3-gallon buckets
- Hat or sombrero
- Estwing rock hammer
- Small hand rake
- Small garden tools
- Gloves
- Long pants
- Long sleeve (depends on weather)
- Boots
- Towels for drying off
- Fresh clothes (you’re going to sweat)
Services are nonexistent and bathrooms are nowhere to be found. So, you’ll want to bring everything you need or visit the gas station before you venture out.
Most importantly, have fun collecting!
Driving directions
Crystal Falls Township, MI
Type or copy the GPS coordinates below into your Google or Apple Maps.
GPS Coordinates
Parking: 46.0786111, -88.42138888888888
Mine location: N45 55.583′ / W88 15.617′
Make Rockhounding Great Again
We are thrilled that you found our website and are planning a rockhounding trip near you.
Please provide feedback on the locations we provide and we’ll do our best to update the page to make it more accurate.
If you have photos, videos, or a new location you’d like to share with the rockhound community then contact us directly and we will feature it on the site.
We look forward to hearing your feedback as we fine-tune the website. Thank you for your support and for sharing Rockhounding Maps in your communities.
