Pay-To-Dig Gem Mines in Utah

A BLM-managed public collecting area in the West Desert of Utah where softball-sized geodes weather out of volcanic ash (tuff) beds. The geodes contain milky quartz, amethyst, and occasional clear optical quartz crystals. Access requires high-clearance 4WD. Bring water and overnight camping gear — the area is remote but spectacular. Free to collect up to 25 lbs/day.

BLM-managed free public collecting area in central Utah's Thomas Range. Collect sherry-orange Utah topaz crystals from gas pockets (miarolitic cavities) in rhyolite. Also find red beryl, bixbyite, and pseudobrookite. High-clearance 4WD recommended. One of the most accessible gem localities in the American West with no permit required.

Collect sherry-colored topaz crystals from gas cavities in rhyolite volcanic rock in central Utah. One of the best topaz localities in the world. Also find red beryl, bixbyite, and opal. High-clearance vehicle recommended.

Collect sherry-colored topaz crystals, red beryl, bixbyite, and opal from volcanic rhyolite. One of the best free collecting sites in the western US (small fee for guided access).

Dig for Utah topaz and other gems in the western desert.

Collect topaz and other gems from the famous Thomas Range in Utah's West Desert.