Where can I find Geodes?
Arizona Geodes- Brainstones
These stones have an exclusive design that resemble “brain-like fissures”. These stones can range anywhere from marble to softball, in size. They are rough Crystalline and locally called “Brainstones”. Their color can span from dirty white to dark brown. Once cut, some of these stones emerge a simple and elegant design of Crystalline. It is rare to find a Brainstone with indented nodules (Geodes) comprised of crystal centers. However, during one of our rock hunting trips we found buckets and buckets of these “rare” Arizona Geodes. Once we returned home with the Brainstones we assumed we had the rather plain Crystalline core. The first one we cracked open was absolutely breathtaking. It was filled with red Quartz crystals and a hollow core.We cracked a few more open and couldn’t believe our eyes. One had pinkish-red crystals, another with an entire red crystal core.
Geodes
Geodes are circular rock structures with an internal chamber that is filled with mineral matter. Their outer wall is so durable it is more resistant to weathering than the surrounding bedrock. Due to this durability, once the bedrock erodes away the Geode remains unscathed. The internal mineral matter is typically tiny Quartz crystals, which is lined with various bands of white and gray agate. Another common Geode features a purple Amethyst center with white Calcite crystals lining.
Geodes are found throughout the world. The most robust areas are located in deserts. Common Geode sites are regions consisting of Limestone or volcanic ash beds. The western part of the United States offers many conveniently available Geode gathering sites. Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, and Iowa have hefty quantities of Geodes.
Arizona has an inclusive circulation of Geodes. The land around Payson is one area with lavish Geodes. Geodes found here range in size from marble to grapefruit. Southern Arizona is another area that offers Geodes. There are several rockhounding sites near Gleeson, within the Sugarloaf Mountains. Abandoned mines and their dump areas have been known to produce large quantities of diverse materials, including Geodes. Be extremely cautious when you are near old mining shafts (never enter). Anthem and Lake Pleasant are other hotspots for Geodes.
How do I open a Geode?
- Wrap the Geode in a sock or t-shirt, then place on a firm surface.
Secure the Geode so it does not roll. - For novices, use a regular screwdriver and hammer. More advanced
folks use your chisel and rock hammer. Place the chisel/screwdriver in
the middle of the Geode, and gently tap a few times with the hammer. - Rotate the Geode a quarter turn and tap again. Continue this until you
see a crack form all the way around the Geode. - Once the crack forms, pull the two halves apart and take a look inside!
Where can I find Geodes near Phoenix, Arizona?