Herkimer Diamond Mines
Middleville, New York
herkimer diamondsdoubly terminated quartzcalcitedolomitepyrite
Fee dig · Fee, seasonal
Herkimer Diamond Mines
The Little Falls dolostone here weathers into a rubble field that hides doubly terminated quartz crystals already faceted by nature, no cutting required. You buy a wristband, borrow a rock hammer, and either work the loose piles or split seams in the ledge; everything you crack out is yours to keep. Hammers up to 12 pounds are fine and eye protection is strongly encouraged, but tools over 12 pounds and anything powered are not allowed.
The card catalog
| What you can find | herkimer diamonds, doubly terminated quartz, calcite, dolomite, pyrite |
|---|---|
| Access | Fee dig — Fee, seasonal |
| Fees | $19/adult (13+) and $16/child (5-12) Monday through Thursday, $22 and $18 Friday through Sunday; ages 4 and under free. Includes an all-day prospecting ticket, gem collection bags, and use of a rock hammer |
| Season & hours | April 12 through October 31, 2026; open 9am-5pm seven days a week. No reservation needed |
| Kids | Family-friendly — Above-ground surface piles, easy footing, and sluice troughs plus an on-site jewelry studio when hammering gets tiring. Under-16s must be with an adult, closed-toe shoes are required, and children 4 and under are not issued tools |
| Official source | Herkimer Diamond Mines (operator) |
| Last checked | Checked against its source August 16, 2026 |
Hours, fees, and access rules change. Verify with the operator or land agency before you go.
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Before you go
What does Herkimer Diamond Mines cost?
$19/adult (13+) and $16/child (5-12) Monday through Thursday, $22 and $18 Friday through Sunday; ages 4 and under free. Includes an all-day prospecting ticket, gem collection bags, and use of a rock hammer Hours, fees, and access rules change. Verify with the operator or land agency before you go.
When is Herkimer Diamond Mines open?
April 12 through October 31, 2026; open 9am-5pm seven days a week. No reservation needed Hours, fees, and access rules change. Verify with the operator or land agency before you go.
Is Herkimer Diamond Mines good for kids?
Yes — Herkimer Diamond Mines works for families. Above-ground surface piles, easy footing, and sluice troughs plus an on-site jewelry studio when hammering gets tiring. Under-16s must be with an adult, closed-toe shoes are required, and children 4 and under are not issued tools