Gemstones Found In The USA [List With Pictures]

Most of us know that Colombia is the biggest producer of Emeralds. Madagascar is known for producing sapphire along with other precious gems. Africa is the main source of diamond as well as other quality gemstones. But did you know that the USA also contains extensive and diverse deposits of gemstones? Yes, the United States also produces quality gemstones from mines throughout the country. Not many people know it but the USA is home to the world-famous sapphire localities of Montana. There is a general opinion that most gemstones in the USA are sourced in the Western regions (e.g. Arizona, Colorado, Nevada), but there are lesser known areas as well that are producing quality gemstones e.g. Tennessee, North Carolina, and Maine.

US States with Gemstone Production

There are thirteen states in the United States which produce almost the majority of the natural gemstones:

Arizona
Arkansas
Colorado
California
Montana
Maine
Nevada
North Carolina
Idaho
Louisiana
Tennessee
Utah
Oregon

Areas Where You Can Find Gemstones

Here are some of the main gemstones which are mined in the areas all over the USA:

Emeralds

You can find Emeralds in North Carolina. The best thing about the southeastern U.S. state is that it produces some of the biggest and rarest gemstones found in the world.

List of gemstones found in south america - emerald

Opals

The states of Oregon (coastal), Nevada (western), and Idaho (Northwestern) are known for their beautiful Opals. You can find black fire opals in the Virgin Valley in Nevada. If you’re looking for Sunstones and Thundereggs, simply head to Oregon.

Jade

It is widely known for its soothing green varieties. This gemstone can be found mainly in Wyoming and California.

Topaz

It is mainly found in California, Colorado, San Diego County, the Thomas Mountain Range of Utah, and Pikes Peak. Topaz can be found in Red, Yellow, Brown, and light blue.

Hiddenite

It is an extremely rare gemstone found in North Carolina that is known for its characteristic light green color. It can also found in China, Brazil, and Madagascar. The one found in North Carolina is considered to be the most purest and original.

Tourmaline

Tourmaline is considered one of the most versatile and brightest gemstones. It can be found in California, Minnesota, and New Hampshire. This wonderful gemstone comes in a variety of colored hues.

Turquoise

It is an opaque, blue-to-green gemstone that is known for its unique hue and is quite rare as well. It can be found in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico.

Benitoite

It is a rare blue barium titanium silicate mineral that can be found in California. When it comes to finding Benitoite, gemstone quality material is only found in California.

Ammolite

It is an opal-like organic gemstone found in the Eastern areas of the Rocky Mountains. It comes in different shades, but most of these gemstones have a green, brown, and red structure.

The Bottom Line

As compared to other parts of the world, gemstone production in the United States is quite low. Although there are great sites for gemstone production, the industry is still undeveloped and small. It is mainly because the cost of opening a mine and labor is quite high and there are government regulations as well. However, the good news is that some fine quality gemstones are still mined in the country. If you want to buy gemstones mined in the United States, it is best to buy them from a trusted online platform.