Gem Hunters! Missouri Mine Holds Ultra Rare Prize

Rockhounds are always on the lookout. While most people have their heads up looking at their surroundings or what’s ahead on their path, gem hunters tend to have their heads down looking for the overlooked.

Get our free mobile app

In Missouri there is much to find. From Fluorite and Galena to Malachite and Barite, but the Show-me prize is Dragon Scale calcite.

You won’t find it lying on the ground (unless there’s been a mishap) as there is only one place in the state to find Dragon Scale calcite. It also happens to be the only place on the planet to find it. Sweetwater Mine in Ellington, which is in Reynolds County nestled in the hills of southeastern Missouri.

How expensive is a hunk of Dragon Scale calcite? Depending on the size, hundreds to thousands of dollars.  Some believe the best of the Dragon Scale calcite has already been unearthed as the mine is deep and old.

Dragon Scale Calcite - Etsy - IridescentMineralsUS

Gem shows, shops and online vendors can provide the elusive Dragon Scale calcite, but to find one – even in a small shop in the Ozarks would be quite the score. Possession of the elusive Dragon Scale calcite would make you the hero of the Renaissance Festival.