Gemstones Found in Illinois

Pearl

Like other fresh water pearls, Illinois pearl can be used in jewelry.

Fluorite is also found in Illinois. It is a soft stone often used in carved figurines and beaded jewelry. It also has many commercial uses as in making steel, aluminum, glass, and many chemicals.

Illinois State Gemstones

State Mineral: Fluorite
Fluorite was adopted as Illinois's State Mineral in 1965. Illinois is the largest producer of Fluorite in the United States.

Useful Books & Bibliography:

Illinois:
• Illinois State Parks: A Guide to Illinois State Parks - by Bill Bailey
  A guide to state parks throughout Illinois. Great for day trips.

  Gemstone Related:

• The Curious Lore of Precious Stones - by George Frederick Kunz
  The definitive book on fascinating, traditional gem lore. Very practical.

• Gemstone Buying Guide: A Guide to Buying - by Renee Newman
  Very nice gemstone identification book.

• Simon and Schuster's Guide to Gems and Precious Stones - by C. Ciprianai, Kennie Lyman (Editor), Alessando Borelli
  This book is one inch thick and every facing page has a full colored photo of gems or precious stones. Hardness, weights, cuts, refractions, and value of color are given for each gem.

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