Usually, a "hidden gem" refers to a place that is special, yet largely unknown. In this case, we're talking about a massive cluster of underground gems that are hidden off of Lake Erie's coast. Though it was shaped by Mother Nature ages ago, it only intersected with human history in the distant past. Ready for an adventure to the world's largest geode? It's just an hour away by car, with a short ferry ride in between. Let's take a look!
The largest geode in the world is here in Ohio and it's hiding under a Put-in-Bay winery.
A geode is a cavity within rock that is covered in minerals. This hidden wonder in Ohio is so large that you can actually stand in it and it is open to the public for tours.
Crystal Cave was discovered in 1897 when workers were digging to create a well.
At about 30 feet down, a space called a "vug" was discovered. This cavity in the earth must have stunned workers, as it is covered in crystals.
Since the space was covered in crystals, many were mined in the first stage of the cave's life. Eventually, however, it became a tourist attraction.
As you can imagine, the cave was a much tighter space before many of its crystals were mined for firework production. Today, minerals like the ones in Crystal Cave are also used for the production of metal alloys. Fortunately, winery owner Gustav Heineman had the foresight to preserve this natural treasure for future generations.
Today, the cave is still open for tours ... and it's just as fascinating today as it was a century ago.
During Prohibition, cave tours and grape juice production kept the Heineman family business operational. Today, it is the only business on South Bass Island to produce its own wine.
Its walls and ceiling are covered in celestine, a soft blue-gray mineral that's actually a bit too soft for use in jewelry.
Though it looks like any other unpolished gemstone, this mineral is surprisingly soft. It's beautiful nonetheless, and seeing such an abundance of resources in the depths of Ohio earth is almost unexpected.
To get to the cave, you'll have to take a steep staircase into the depths of the earth.
The sign is no joke ... watch your step! The earth is a bit moist and the steep staircase can be challenging for some. Hold onto the rail as you head down.
Once you're down there, you'll immediately find yourself surrounded by sparkling natural beauty.
The cave is pretty petite, and the tour doesn't take too long to complete. However, the cave will take your breath away with its beauty.
The crystals are close enough to touch, but resist the urge to feel them! The oils in your hands can break down the cave walls over time.
This cave has already survived over a century since its discovery ... help preserve it for future generations by leaving nothing but footprints.
When all is said and done, you'll come back up the same staircase ...
Again, watch your step. Take it slow going up, and stop by the bar counter for a glass of water if you find yourself winded.
... where you'll reemerge in the gift shop.
You'll find all sorts of treasures to commemorate your visit here. Remember that you'll have to cart whatever you buy around the island, onto the ferry, and then back to your car when it's time to go home.
Here, you can claim your own crystal to take home!
Who can resist a bit of sparkle? These geodes are a tad bit smaller than the cave but, hey, why not celebrate your visit by taking one home?
Of course, you can also take some time before or after the cave tour to kick back and relax at Heineman's Winery. This quaint and historic Ohio winery has survived despite Prohibition and it's full of charm.
Look for these local landmarks at 978 Catawba Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456.
After your visit, you can brag about standing inside the world's largest geode. Who would have thought it is so close to Cleveland?!
Love caves? There are several caves near Cleveland that you can explore! Some, like Crystal Cave, are underground, but others are accessed via a short hike.
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