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Herkimer Diamond Mining

Herkimer Diamond Mines

The Herkimer Diamond Mines welcomes over 150,000 visitors of all ages each year, including vacationing families with children, hobbyists, and rockhounds alike.  While here, you can prospect for world-famous Herkimer diamonds in three above-ground surface mines.  Visitors can also shop for various souvenirs, geological specimens, loose Herkimer diamonds, Herkimer diamond jewelry, and much more at the Trading Post retail store.  The Canteen Café offers casual lunch fare, cold drinks, snacks, and even soft-serve ice cream.  Miners’ Table offers several culinary delights and a full menu of local craft beers, ciders, and wines.  Admission ($19 for adults +$2.00 on Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays) includes all-day prospecting from 9 am to 5 pm and the use of a hammer.  Herkimer Diamond Mines operates seasonally from mid-April through the end of October and is located 15 minutes from Grand Colonial Bed and Breakfast. Curious about value? Read our guide to how much Herkimer diamonds are worth before you head out. Wondering what else turns up in the dirt? Our quick read on what you can find in the Herkimer Diamond Mines covers the common (and rare) finds. For the most up-to-date season info, our full guide to the Herkimer Diamond Mines season has hours, gear, and what to expect.

Get Digging

Ace of Diamonds Mine

The family-owned and operated Ace of Diamonds Mine offers novice and professional Herkimer diamond prospectors a less commercialized mining experience in ascending above-ground surface mines.  These beautiful doubly-terminated quartz crystal gemstones were formed in Herkimer County nearly 500 million years ago.  Hammers and other tools are available for rent or sale.  A popular 150-foot-long sluice (water trough) allows you to sift for crystals in the mine.  Visitors can enjoy lunch in an outdoor picnic area, and the onsite Rock Shop offers cold soda, ice cream, candy, and other treats for purchase.  Admission is $14 for adults and includes all-day prospecting from 9 am to 5 pm.  Ace of Diamonds Mine operates seasonally from April 1st through October 31st and is located 15 minutes from Grand Colonial Bed and Breakfast. *Note – The Ace of Diamonds mine and gift shop are CLOSED until further notice due to an ongoing lawsuit among the current landowners.*

Explore the Mine

Diamond Mountain Mining

Diamond Mountain is a local “best-kept secret” and our recommendation for diggers interested in unearthing rare crystal formations that cannot be found elsewhere in the Herkimer diamond mining district.  This 187-acre property boasts stunning views of the Mohawk River, beautiful forest trails, and a spring-fed waterfall.  Various experiences are available, including Wilderness Digs, which provides an introductory tour and site orientation that teaches guests about the geology of Herkimer diamonds to increase their chances of success.  Basic admission costs $100 per person and is open to ages 14 and up.  Access is limited to 45 Wilderness Dig miners daily to preserve the digging environment.  Mining season starts annually in early May.  Gates open for check-in at 8:30 am, and the dig day ends at 5:00 pm.  Diamond Mountain Mining is located 15 minutes from Grand Colonial Bed and Breakfast.

Dig Rare Herkimers

Crystal Grove Diamond Mine

Crystal Grove offers Herkimer diamond mining and tool rentals to its St. Johnsville, NY visitors.  Try your luck at mining Herkimer diamonds here until sunset daily, and keep what you find.  Tool rentals are first come, first served, and you are encouraged to bring any non-power tools you would like.  Admission to Crystal Grove is the least expensive of all area mines ($12 for adults), and they are known for their friendly staff.  The site is in a wooded setting with plenty of trees, walking trails, a stream, picnic tables, and a children’s play area.  Well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome in the mining area.  There is also an onsite gift shop offering a variety of rock specimens for sale.   Crystal Grove Diamond Mine is open daily from mid-April through mid-October and is located 30 minutes from Grand Colonial Bed and Breakfast. Looking to combine mining with other day trips? Our distances and drive times page shows where everything sits relative to the inn. For 2026 visitors, see our updated 2026 guide to the Herkimer Diamond Mines with current season tips and what to bring.

Discover Gems