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Getting StartedRocks & Minerals In Rhode Island
Rhode Island rockhounding maps to hunt for crystals, gemstones, minerals, and ores. Rhode Island, the smallest state, offers a unique selection of minerals for rockhounds, including graphite, cumberlandite, and bowenite. Despite its size, the state's diverse geology and coastline provide various collecting opportunities, such as the historic graphite mine at Cranston and the shoreline at Narragansett Bay.
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See RecommendationsPlease always bring appropriate attire and do research before venturing out to rock hunt and crystal hunt. Also, be sure to verify that the location you want to hunt at is available for public access. Rockhounding.org does our best to verify, but it is your responsibility to verify as well because sometimes things change. We are not liable for any actions you take from the information you find on this site.
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Popular Rocks, Crystals, & Gemstones In Rhode Island
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QuartzRhode Island is known for its quartz deposits, which can be found in various locations across the state. Clear, smoky, and milky quartz crystals can be collected at sites such as the Diamond Hill Mine in Cumberland.
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GraphiteGraphite, a naturally occurring form of crystalline carbon, can be found in Rhode Island, particularly in the northwest part of the state. The Cranston Graphite Mine is a notable site for collecting this mineral.
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BerylBeryl, a popular mineral for collectors, can be found in Rhode Island. Aquamarine and morganite, both varieties of beryl, have been reported in pegmatite deposits throughout the state, particularly in Providence County.
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GarnetGarnet, a group of silicate minerals, can be found in Rhode Island, particularly in the schist and gneiss formations throughout the state. Notable locations include the Diamond Hill Mine and the Newport Neck area.
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FeldsparFeldspar, a group of rock-forming minerals, can be found in pegmatite deposits across Rhode Island. Collectors can find potassium and plagioclase feldspar in areas such as the Diamond Hill Mine and the Snake Den State Park.
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TourmalineTourmaline, a popular mineral for collectors, can be found in Rhode Island's pegmatite deposits. Schorl, a black variety of tourmaline, has been reported in the Diamond Hill Mine and other locations throughout the state.
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Popular Rock Hunting Areas In Rhode Island
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Cumberlandite Hunting AreaThe Cumberlandite Hunting Area in Rhode Island is the best place to find Cumberlandite, the state rock. This unique rock contains minerals like magnetite, ilmenite, and olivine.
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FarmCoast
FarmCoast in Rhode Island is a popular spot for beachcombing, where visitors can find sea glass, fossils, and other interesting rocks along the shoreline.
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Block Island
Block Island in Rhode Island is known for its beautiful beaches and cliffs, where visitors can find various rocks and minerals, including quartz and jasper.
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Neutaconkanut Hill Park
Neutaconkanut Hill Park in Providence, Rhode Island, offers a great opportunity for rockhounding, with its diverse geology and the possibility of finding various minerals and fossils.
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Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park
Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park in Rhode Island is a great place for rockhounding, where visitors can find minerals such as quartz, feldspar, and mica along the riverbanks.
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Mohegan Bluffs
Mohegan Bluffs on Block Island, Rhode Island, offer a stunning location for rockhounding, with unique geological formations and the chance to find various rocks, minerals, and fossils.
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Geology of Rhode Island
Rhode Island's geologic history began over a billion years ago with the formation of ancient rocks during the Precambrian Era. The state experienced several orogenies during the Paleozoic Era, including the Taconic, Acadian, and Alleghenian, which contributed to the formation of the Appalachian Mountains.
The landscape of Rhode Island was further shaped by glacial activity during the last Ice Age, which left behind glacial deposits, moraines, and the state's numerous lakes and ponds. The state is also known for its famous coastal features, such as Block Island and the Narrag