How to Find a Crystal Pocket

Consider using a "fee dig" site if you are new to hunting for crystal pockets. Private owners of mining claims sometimes allow the public to dig for crystals for a small fee per person. The best way to find these opportunities is to ask at the area's Chamber of Commerce.

Look for small, surface pockets of crystal. Sometimes these are a good indication of a large crystal pocket in the ground. Check the character and consistency of the rock in which you see small crystals. If the formation of the rock is consistent, you have a good chance of finding bigger crystal pockets. But if the character of the rock changes -- for example, if the top is sandstone that turns to shale underneath -- there will be less or no crystal pockets. If you see alternating layers of sandstone and shale, chances are better that you will find smaller crystal pockets deep down.

Dig with your hands or use hand tools. Crystal pockets can be damaged by metal tools and rough handling. Dig gently and carefully with gloved hands and small shovels.

Learn about technology to find crystal pockets. Ground-penetrating radar is used by some to detect differences in rock density. The air or clay that is in crystal cavities is less dense than the rock. The pulses are graphed on a computer screen and indicate to the user where to dig. While this technique might seem easy, it requires skill on the part of the operator.