Grab your shovel, screen, and water, and go hunt for the Texas state gem. It’s fun for all ages. In Texas, topaz is only found within Mason County. The Seaquist Ranch near Mason, TX offers access to topaz hunters for a nominal fee. For a demonstration of what you’re looking for and how to find it, stop by “Gems of the Hill Country” on the north side of the square in Mason. Be sure to pack something to sit on and maybe some knee pads, as the ground can be hard. Gem quality clear and smoky quartz are also found, along with arrowheads. The topaz is found in certain creeks running through the pink granite. It is suggested that your sifting screen have a mesh size of ¼ to ½ inch per square. The screen can be fastened to a frame made from 2x2 lumber, sized to your liking.
Visit the Gems of the Hill Country website (link provided below) to get contact information for the Seaquist and Lindsay Ranches and to view photos of rough gems and cut gems.
The web link is:
http://www.texas-topaz.com/aboutus/rockhounding.htm
Send me photos of your gem finds!
-Don Gray
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