Natural Star Garnet

Natural Star Garnet from Idaho 9.49 CT

Idaho star garnets are incredibly rare, highly prized, and share the title with India as the only significant sources in the world. Adopted as Idaho’s official state gem, these deep purplish-red stones contain titanium rutile inclusions that, when cut en cabochon, reflect light to reveal a stunning four- or six-ray star.

Mining Your Own Garnets

If you want to find your own, the Emerald Creek Garnet Area is the only public dig site for star garnets in Idaho. 

• Location: Located within the Idaho Panhandle National Forests near St. Maries.
• How It Works: Due to environmental protections, you don't dig in the creek itself. Instead, the Forest Service provides pre-dug, garnet-bearing gravels. You will run these through provided sluice boxes to find the gems.
• Permits: Access requires a permit booked in advance on ⁠Recreation.gov. Walk-ups are not allowed.
• Season: The site typically operates Thursday through Saturday, opening Memorial Day weekend and closing Labor Day weekend. 

Buying Pre-Cut and Finished Jewelry
If you prefer to buy a finished piece rather than search for rough stones, Idaho star garnets are sold by various lapidaries, jewelers, and online shops. 

• Rough/Crystals: Uncut or pre-polished stones for collectors range roughly from $40 to $100 depending on size and star clarity.
• Finished Jewelry: Silver pendants and rings usually cost between $150 and $1,200+ depending on the gold or silver setting, carat weight, and whether it is a four- or six-ray star. Six-ray stars are generally more valuable and rare.