Mining Facts:
“Herkimer Diamonds” are a unique type of quartz crystal found only in specific parts of Upstate New York. Because this is an open-pit herkimer mine, you will be working outdoors in the elements rather than underground,there are some woodsy areas for shade. These crystals are scattered throughout the grounds, exactly where Mother Nature left them 500,000,000 years ago—and it’s your goal to find them! At Crystal Grove, we also discover other minerals typically associated with the herkimer diamond, including calcite, dolomite crystals, anthraxolite, and pyrite.
To mine for Herkimer Diamonds, you need luck & hard work. There are 3 basic approaches:
- Luck: Simply walk around and scan the ground for exposed quartz crystals. This technique is most effective on a sunny day immediately following a rainstorm, which washes away the dust and makes the Herkimer diamonds sparkle.
- Sifting: If you are feeling more ambitious, you can sift through the dirt in search of loose quartz crystals. This is an excellent technique for younger children and budding rockhounds.
- Hard Rock Mining: For a true Herkimer mine experience, try working the ledge to find matrix specimens (crystals still attached to the host rock). The matrix consists of dolomitic limestone, which is some of the hardest rock on Earth. While finding something special requires luck and hard work, your odds improve with time, experience, and the use of heavy-duty tools.
There is an abundance of quartz crystal out there, so find a spot and start working! With a reasonable amount of effort, you are likely to find something. Realistically, if this is your first visit to our herkimer mine, plan to focus on having a unique and enjoyable experience; finding a beautiful quartz specimen should be considered a wonderful bonus!
Please keep in mind that larger specimens tend to have internal fractures and dings. The truly “gemmy” crystals—those that are double-terminated and water-clear—are more likely to be 1” or smaller.
If you notice a yellow tint on your crystals, it is caused by iron, which can be removed by soaking them overnight in a mild acid. Some crystals may also contain black specks of anthraxolite, a natural hydrocarbon material trapped inside the crystal.
There are three distinct collecting areas adjacent to our campsite. You will be provided with a detailed mine map once you have paid your mining fee and signed the waiver. For your convenience, you can drive directly to the site and park right next to the mine. While the main digging areas are not accessible for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users, we do offer a designated ADA area; please ask for details in the store when you check in.
