Located on the remote southern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, this unique beach offers a treasure trove of natural beauty, where visitors can find incredible gemstones, including garnet, jasper, and quartz. Here’s why Gemstone Beach should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.
The Allure of Gemstone Beach
Nestled between Riverton and Orepuki, Gemstone Beach is a stretch of coastline known for its abundance of beautiful stones and minerals.
The beach’s name is no exaggeration—its sands are sprinkled with semi-precious gemstones, making it a paradise for collectors and nature lovers.
Gemstones to Discover
Garnet: These striking red stones are a common find on Gemstone Beach. Garnets are prized for their deep, rich color and are often used in jewelry.
Jasper: Jasper is another gem you can expect to uncover. Known for its wide variety of colors and intricate patterns, jasper is a form of chalcedony often polished to bring out its beauty.
Quartz: Quartz crystals, including clear quartz, rose quartz, and smoky quartz, are also found along this extraordinary beach.
These stones are valued not only for their beauty but also for their purported healing properties. Discovering a perfectly formed quartz crystal is like finding a piece of nature’s art.
Tips for Gem Hunting
Timing: The best time to visit Gemstone Beach is after a storm when the waves have churned up the sand and revealed new treasures. Low tide also offers more beach area to explore.
Tools: Bring a small shovel, a trowel, and a sieve to help sift through the sand. A bucket or bag will be handy to carry your finds.
Patience: Gem hunting requires patience and a keen eye. Take your time walking along the shore, and don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper into promising spots.
Respect the Environment: Always collect responsibly, taking only what you need and leaving the beach as beautiful as you found it.
Exploring the Surroundings
While Gemstone Beach is a highlight, the surrounding area also offers plenty to see and do. The nearby town of Riverton, one of New Zealand’s oldest settlements, boasts charming cafes and local history.
Does the Gemstone Beach sound like a place you want to visit? Trust us, you’ll love it, and we’re ready to help you plan a fantastic trip there!
Fire Mountain Travel will find the best times to visit Gemstone Beach and arrange accommodations and local tours, and we’ll take care of all the details!
Book your trip today and discover the incredible gemstones waiting to be unearthed on this remote New Zealand beach! Contact us today!
Comments