Sunstone Knoll is formed of volcanic vents that erupted during the early Pleistocene (1.6 million years to about 750,000 years ago). The crystals, which are found in cavities in the rhyolite, formed in gas pockets that were trapped in the lava flow as it cooled. One of the common units found near Marysvale is a white to dark gray rhyolite with extremely well-developed flow banding. The especially thick volcanic section is thought to be the result of a large stratovolcano complex and associated calderas that existed during mid-Tertiary time. The Marysvale area is dominated by Tertiary igneous rocks ranging from intermediate to silicic compositions with both volcanic and plutonic representatives. Although these rocks are technically a limestone, the building stone industry has termed this deposit a "marble." The rocks are rich in algal ball structures commonly known as "birdseyes." Bixbyite, Rutile, and Amethyst Crystals This lake deposited a sequence of sediments that formed rocks known as the Flagstaff Formation. Geologic Information: Approximately 58 to 66 million years ago (Paleocene epoch), a large body of water known as Lake Flagstaff covered parts of northeastern and central Utah. The trip to the beds is an adventure in itself as you travel down the historical Pony Express Trail and pass through several historical locations such as the Pet Cemetery and Simpson Springs. There is an abundance of recreational activities such as ATV trails, wildlife viewing, shooting, hiking, and of course rock hounding. The Dugway Geode Beds not only offers rock hounding opportunities for the beautiful Geodes but the location is great for a weekend campout. Roughly 32,000 to 14,000 thousand years ago, a large body of water known as Lake Bonneville covered most of western Utah. The result is geodes with spherical shapes and crystal-lined cavities. Trapped gasses formed cavities within the rhyolite, and millions of years of ground-water circulation allowed minerals to precipitate into the cavities. Dugway Geode Beds, Juab CountyĪpproximately 6 to 8 million years ago (Miocene epoch), volcanic activity occurred in western Utah and deposited an extrusive igneous rock called rhyolite. If collecting in the summer be sure to bring lots of water and protection from the sun. What is even more interesting is knowing that at one point this area was part of a ancient lake. While digging through the shell rock you never know what ancient treasure you will discover. This is a great activity for the kids and adults alike. The area is loaded with thousands of shells all in one location. Located approximately 83 miles from Salt Lake City is a location that one can collect ancient shells and clams. Arthropods have segmented bodies and appendages covered by an exoskeleton which provides support and protection for muscles and organs. Two questions we commonly receive are "what are trilobites and where are they found in Utah?" Trilobites are members of the phylum Arthropoda (jointed-foot animals). The very name conjures up images from "B" science-fiction movies of bug-eyed, wiggly-legged, insect-like creatures that eat New York. Trilobites and the Cambrian Environment of Utah Just recently a regular to the quarry found a rare trilobite named Olenoides Nevadensis, it is worth well over $2,000.00. The size of trilobite usually found is about an eighth of an inch to 2 inches in length. There are less common trilobites to be found as well. The most common trilobite fossils found at this location are Elrathia Kingi, Asaphiscus Wheeleri, Peronopsis Interstricta (Agnostus), and the Brachipod. It is located about 52 miles west of Delta, Utah. "U-Dig Fossils" provides you with 40 acres of the very best trilobite collecting property in the world. Below you will find detailed information on the most popular rocks and fossils collected in Utah. Please read the Rules And Regulations Regarding Rock, Mineral, and Fossil Collecting In Utah. Do not collect on mining claims without the proper permission from the claim owner. Be sure that a permit is not required and check for mining claims. Although rock collecting is permitted on most public lands for personal use, you need to research the area you plan to collect in. Popular finds include trilobites, gem quality topaz, red beryl, geodes and sun stones. Utah is known by some as the Rock Hounding Capital of the United States! Destinations throughout Central Utah provide the most diverse and unique rock hounding sites in the state.
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