They don't call us the Gem State just for kicks and giggles. Idaho is home to approximately 72 different kinds of gems and you can get your hands on some of your own when you visit this one-of-a-kind park. Hiding in Idaho is the Spencer Opal Mine where visitors can come and try their luck at finding some precious stones as they dig for opals. Smashing away at rocks is certainly a unique way to spend the day and it's bound to be fun for the whole family, no matter how old or young you are. This is an Idaho bucket list item you'll definitely want to check off soon so take a look!
The small town of Spencer in eastern Idaho is often referred to as "The Opal Capital of America." After all, it's here you'll find the largest opal mine in the state — Spencer Opal Mine — where you can dig for your own opals.
Opals are the second largest contributor to the total value of gem material produced here in Idaho and the Spencer Opal Mine is the largest producer in the state. Each year, the mine opens itself to visitors who would like to try their luck at digging for their own precious gems.
Rockhounds are welcome to check out the mini mine located right behind the Opal Country Cafe. Material is brought here from the main mine and visitors are welcome to dig to their heart's content! Be sure to bring eye protection, good shoes, and your own digging equipment (a hammer is recommended.)
Spencer Opal Mine usually opens in spring and remains open through fall. It's here that you'll find a variety of different types of opals including Black Opal, Mexican Fire Opal, Precious Fire Opal, and White Opals — just to name a few.
There's a fee for adults and a small one for kids, but it's worth it! The fee includes access to the mini mine for the day and allows you to fill up a 2.5-gallon bucket. Kids under five years of age are, unfortunately, not allowed to dig.
Afterward, drop by the gift shop where you'll find all sorts of opal-related items for sale such as handcrafted jewelry. The gift shop also contains a cafe — perfect after a long day's work.
If you're willing to put in the work and a little patience, then you're bound to walk away with some opals in your pocket. For more information about Spencer Opal Mine including information about the most current season, visit the opal mine in Idaho's official website.
What do you think? Will you attempt to dig for opals in Idaho this year? Have you ever visited the opal capital of America? Let us know in the comments. If you want to learn more about gems in Utah, check out this destination where you can also search for gems and learn a little more about our great state.
If you need any equipment for outdoor adventures, like rockhounding in Idaho, visit REI for all of your needs.
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