

Summer 2016, the American Geode uncovered a Herkimer Diamonds pocket, a trophy and a prize of fine Herkimer Diamonds in Fonda, New York. For more background on Herkimer Diamonds, go to American Geode’s page dedicated to the Herkimer Diamond.

Be prepared to have essential tools & tips ready for your Herkimer Diamonds rockhounding trip. Necessary tools for rockhounding include: a good Estwing crack hammer, small chisels, wedges, buckets, and a wire screen. Basic Tips include: Bring plenty of mosquito repellent, snacks & water, ear & eye protection, gloves, and check the Weather! A small 1200+ watt generator and power breaker will greatly increase your odds of finding large Herkimer Diamond pockets. A 4-6 foot long pry bar is also a great tool to have handy when trying to leverage against large stubborn rocks. For the more serious miner, a 65lb Jackhammer which can be rented at local hardware stores. “Professionals” often use set up water pumps during the rainy mining season and also as the escavation depth gets closer to the water table. Local miners will often trade lesser findings with a bit of friendly talk and easily show off their best finds of the day. Mining is hard work, be prepared for 3-4 hrs of serious rockhounding. Enjoy the outdoors, enjoy the nature, enjoy the wonderment and delight when you discover Herkimer Diamonds! It’s a great time to turn off your phone and absorb the outdoors.

Are all Herkimer Diamonds double-terminated quartz crystals? The answer is yes. Does that make all double-terminated quartz crystals Herkimer diamonds then? The answer is no. Herkimer refers to the location of these unusual quartz clusters found in hollow “pockets”. Herkimer County is about a 4 and a half hours drive north of New York City. The name Herkimer comes from an American Revolution General named Nicholas Herkimer who died in battle in 1777.