New Mexico Turquoise Beds (Cerrillos)
Approximate — check official site before visiting
Historic turquoise mining district near Santa Fe. BLM claims for turquoise collecting. One of the oldest turquoise sources in the US.
🌐 Visit Official Site →🪨 What You Can Find Here
Turquoise
Blue-green gemstone found in arid southwestern states. Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico produce the finest specimens.
Also found at:
📍 Nearby Locations in New Mexico
Rockhound State Park
Deming, New Mexico · State Park
State park specifically designated for rockhounding. Visitors can collect specimens including quartz, agate, jasper, and geodes. Beautiful desert moun...
New Mexico Obsidian Beds
Grants, New Mexico · BLM Land
BLM areas near Grants for black, mahogany, and rainbow obsidian. Volcanic deposits from the Mount Taylor region.
New Mexico Peridot Beds
Estancia, New Mexico · Fee Dig
Peridot deposits in the Estancia Valley. The Buell Park area produces gem-quality peridot crystals.
Stevens Garnet
Santa Fe, New Mexico · BLM Land
BLM area near Santa Fe producing almandine garnet crystals in schist. Popular local rockhounding spot.
⛏️ Recommended Gear
Make the most of your visit to New Mexico Turquoise Beds (Cerrillos) with the right equipment.
Rock Hammer
The most essential rockhounding tool. Choose a hammer with both a flat striking face and a pointed pick end.
Typical: $25-45
Safety Glasses
Mandatory protective gear. Rock chips fly unpredictably when hammering.
Typical: $10-20
Chisel Set
Cold chisels in 3-4 sizes for precise extraction from matrix rock.
Typical: $15-30
Geologist's Pick
A heavier crack hammer for splitting hard rock. Essential for hard rock mining areas.
Typical: $35-60
Sifting Screen
Stackable mesh screens for sifting gravel and dirt. Essential for gem and fossil hunting.
Typical: $20-40
UV Flashlight
Long-wave UV light for finding fluorescent minerals and Yooperlites.
Typical: $15-35