Maynard’s Red Beryl & Topaz Mine —

Historic Utah Gem-Treasure Hunting Adventure

A rare opportunity to collect gemstones at one of the most historically important mineral localities in the world

Book your adventure on our booking calendar:
👉 TheGemTours.com/booking-calendar

About Maynard’s Red Beryl & Topaz Mine

Explore one of the most significant mineral localities ever discovered — Maynard’s Red Beryl & Topaz Mine, located in Utah’s remote West Desert near the Thomas Range.

This site is the Dana Type Locality for both Red Beryl and Bixbyite, meaning it is the original location where these minerals were first scientifically identified and described. The mine was originally discovered in the late 1890s by Maynard Bixby, a pioneering mineral prospector whose finds would become world-famous among collectors and museums.

Today, this privately operated mine offers guests a rare chance to dig for historic gemstones and minerals and keep everything they find at no extra charge, while standing at the birthplace of two of Utah’s most iconic minerals.

Access & Physical Requirements

✅ NO HIKING REQUIRED

Maynard’s Mine is one of the most accessible gem-mining experiences we offer.

  • Guests can park very close to all active collecting areas

  • No hiking is required

  • Terrain is relatively gentle compared to other local mines

This makes Maynard’s Mine an excellent option for families, beginners, and guests who prefer minimal walking or have difficulty with rugged terrain.

What You Can Find at the Mine

Every dig is different, but guests may uncover:

  • Red Beryl — one of the rarest gemstones on Earth and first discovered here

  • Bixbyite — classic black metallic crystals first identified at this site

  • Topaz — well-formed Utah crystals

  • Associated rhyolite-hosted minerals — adding variety and historical significance to every dig

All material you collect is yours to keep.

Why Maynard’s Mine Is Special

  • 🏛 Dana Type Locality for Red Beryl and Bixbyite

  • ⛏ Original discovery site by Maynard Bixby (late 1890s)

  • 🌍 Specimens from this location are held in major museums and private collections worldwide

  • ⭐ Ideal for collectors, historians, rockhounds, and first-time diggers

This is not just a mining experience — it’s a chance to dig at a world-class historic mineral site.

Tour & Dig Information

Guided VIP Tours

  • Full-day mining experience with expert guides

  • Instruction on tools, techniques, and where to dig

  • Historical context and mineral identification provided on site

  • Typical hours: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

🚫 No unguided tours are offered
For safety and proper instruction, all guests must be accompanied by our staff.

Combo Mine Tours

Combine Maynard’s Red Beryl & Topaz Mine with:

  • Solar Wind Bixbyite & Pink Topaz Mine, or

  • Searle Canyon Red Beryl & Topaz Mine

for a complete Utah gemstone experience.

Booking Notes

  • Advance booking is required

  • Most tours require 72-hour notice
    (If booking within 72 hours, please call us for availability)

  • View dates and availability at
    👉 TheGemTours.com/booking-calendar

Vehicle Requirements & Access

🚙 4 Wheel Drive & AWD vehicles are generally sufficient

  • High-clearance vehicles with at least 7 inches of clearance.

  • Roads are unpaved but typically accessible in normal conditions

 

What to Bring

We recommend bringing:

  • Rock hammer, chisels, or small hand tools

  • Buckets or containers for collecting specimens

  • Gloves, sturdy footwear, and sun protection

  • Plenty of water, snacks, and lunch

🛠 Tool rental reservations are available on the booking calendar
🪣 Screens are available FREE on site

Location & Logistics

  • Nearest Town: Delta, Utah (approximately 1 hour away)

  • Camping: Primitive camping available nearby

  • Facilities: Limited; portable toilets or privacy tents may be provided

This is a remote desert location — plan accordingly.

Ready to Dig Where History Was Made?

Join us at the birthplace of Red Beryl and Bixbyite for a one-of-a-kind gem mining experience unlike anywhere else on Earth.

👉 Visit TheGemTours.com/booking-calendar to book your tour today.