Minerals And Rocks Of Wyoming

A Guide for Collectors, Prospectors, and Rock Hounds

One geologist spent 30 years exploring Wyoming while noting the variety of minerals, rocks and gemstones scattered statewide. During these investigations, Wyoming, which once was considered to be relatively poor in gemstones, soon became known as having the most diversified assemblage of gemstones of any state in the United States. The author discovered dozens of new mineral, gemstone and rock localities, more than a hundred gold anomalies and mapped the largest diamondiferous kimberlite fields in the US and the largest field of lamproites in North America. During these investigations, the author, W. Dan Hausel, discovered some of the largest gemstones and deposits on earth. Now he shares these localities with his readers.

The 75 sites described in this guide take you across the red desert to the high mountain majesty of the Big Horns and Wind Rivers as well as the geologic wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Graham, a former hardrock miner, developed an interest in rocks at an early age, and he shares his enthusiasm for rockhounding and his appreciation for the diverse Wyoming landscape that holds the treasure. Each description provides detailed information complete with maps on how to find the remote as well as popular digs, what will likely be found there, the tools to bring, the best season to visit, the appropriate vehicle to drive, or when to lace up your hiking boots to get to those out-of-the-way places.

An evaluation of the mineral potential of the area.