How to Identify an Unopened Geode

Though geodes may look like ordinary rocks, they conceal a hollowed interior that is chock full of different colored minerals and rocks such as amethyst, quartz, agate, and jade. Geodes form naturally over time as a result of specific geological processes and can be found in Mexico and many regions of the United States, such as the Southwest, Midwest, and Southeast. With a few quick tips and a little patience, you'll be able to spot these natural wonders hiding in plain sight!

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Knowing Where to Look

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1
Consult a geode map. Use a reliable guide map when you search for geodes. Rockhounds have gone before you and can get you into areas where finding a geode is much more likely. Geodes are specific geological formations that only result in particular regions. ^{[1]XResearch source}
- Within the United States, geode maps identify areas of the Midwest such as Illinois, Iowa, and Missouri as well as areas in the Southeast such as Kentucky, Tennessee, and South Carolina as common geode locations.
- Geode maps identify Brazil, Namibia, Uruguay, Mexico as top areas around the world where geodes are located.^{[2]XResearch source}
2
Survey your surroundings for likely geode locations. Learn to identify common signs that you may be searching in a location where geodes are likely to be found. When you are hunting for geodes in nature, look for limestone and basalt rocks. These rocks are often key to the formation of geodes. Geodes are also commonly found in lake or river beds.^{[3]XResearch source}
- Geodes are often formed in stratified sedimentary carbonate deposits such as limestones and dolomites.
- Stratified volcanic deposits such as basalt and tuffs rocks also lead to geode formation.
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3
Verify whether you are on private property. Check surrounding signs to ensure you are not scouting for geodes on private property. Before you search for geodes on private property, make sure to ask for permission.^{[4]XResearch source}
- Even if you are scouting for geodes on public land, it might be protected by a nature preserve, which would mean you might not be permitted to remove natural items from the property.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Spotting a Geode

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Look for round rocks. Look for medium-sized rocks that appear to be more round than surrounding rocks. Geodes look a lot like normal rocks but can sometimes have an egg-like shape that distinguishes them.
- Sharp, pointy rocks rarely contain geodes.
2
Check the surface for bumps. Look for rocks that have a unique, bumpy texture on the exterior. Geodes are rarely perfectly smooth.
- The texture of a geode’s exterior may have a cauliflower-like appearance.
- Inspect the surface for any signs of minerals inside. Sometimes traces of the inside crystals are visible on the surface.
3
Test whether the rock has a hollow interior. Pick up the rock and assess its weight. If the rock feels lighter than that surrounding rocks, it may be a geode. Geodes have a hollow space inside, which is what allows the crystals to form.^{[5]XResearch source}
- You can also shake the rock next to your ear to test whether it is hollow. You may hear small pieces of rock or crystal rattling around inside if it is hollow.

Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Looking Inside

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Crack open the rock with a hammer. Use a rock hammer or pickax to crack open the suspected geode. Place the rock on the ground and strike it in the center with a hammer to split it into two pieces. While there are clues that can lead you to geodes, the only way to verify whether you’ve truly found one is to take a look inside.^{[6]XResearch source}
- Make sure to wear safety goggles while trying to open the geode.
- If you do not want to attempt to open the geode yourself, you can also take it to a rock or gem store to have it opened for you.
2
Identify the minerals inside. Use a mineral identification key to determine what kind of mineral your geode contains. Match the descriptions in the key to the appearance of the crystals found inside of your geode in order to properly identify what kind you have unearthed.^{[7]XResearch source}
- Mineral keys describe the mineral’s habit, which refers to its key characteristics and features.
3
Cut and polish your geode. Use a chisel and hammer to break off pieces of the geode to clean and polish. Use a handheld rotary sander to grind the geodes into shape then rub them with a polishing cloth until you begin to see luster.^{[8]XResearch source}
- Polishing your geode will bring out the most in its beauty.
- You can also coat your geode with mineral oil to increase its luster.

Community Q&A

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Question
I live on the outskirts of Columbia, SC (in the countryside). I dug up some mixed quartz pieces along my Lake Murray property. Are they geodes? Worth cracking?
Dylan Majors
Community Answer
Yes! Your land has the right conditions to be be growing minerals such as quartz, and more importantly geodes! They're definitely worth cracking. Even if they aren't rare or uncommon, even the most common geode can look pretty.
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Are they heavy or do they sound hollow inside?
Community Answer
They tend to be lighter than other stones of the same size. If you shake it gently and hear a rattling sound, it's hollow. Some geodes don't rattle and are solid, but still beautiful when opened.
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How much is a geode worth?
Community Answer
That depends on the size and they type of crystals inside; amethyst is more valuable than quartz.
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Tips

Check the outer surface of the rock. If you are lucky, a little bit of the coloration from the crystals will be visible.
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Pay close attention to your surroundings and never go rock hunting, exploring or spelunking alone. No rock is worth your life or safety.
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Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of How.com.vn readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on How.com.vn, please submit it in the field below.

When searching for geodes, also watch for rounded stones that fit nicely in your palm — these may be ancient tools! I've found some before.
Living near mountains or creeks increases your chances of finding geodes, since water helps form them over time. I've found some in creeks.
If you don't have a rock hammer, try breaking the geode open against a hard surface like a rock wall. Improvise with your surroundings.
I like to polish my geodes once they're open to bring out the crystals' natural beauty. A handheld rotary sander works well.
Always get permission before searching private property for geodes. Even public land may be protected, so check regulations.
When cracking open a suspected geode, make sure to wear protective goggles in case shards fly off. Safety first!

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