Where is Petoskey Stone found?
Fossilized Hexagonaria percarinata coral in limestone
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Open the appPetoskey Stone occurs in specific geological environments. Knowing where to look, and in what kind of rock, is the difference between going home empty-handed and finding a great specimen.
Where to find Petoskey Stone
Lake Michigan Shorelines (Michigan, USA)
Abundant along the shores of Lake Michigan, particularly in the northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan, including Petoskey, Charlevoix, and Traverse City areas. They are often found washed up on beaches.
Gravel Pits and Quarries (Michigan, USA)
Can be found in gravel pits and quarries that extract material from glacial deposits or Devonian bedrock in Michigan.
Riverbeds and Stream Beds (Michigan, USA)
Occasionally found in riverbeds and stream beds that drain areas with glacial deposits originating from Devonian bedrock.
Collecting tips
- Look for the distinctive pattern. The hexagonal pattern with a central 'eye' is the key identifier. This pattern is most visible when the stone is wet, so searching along the waterline or wetting potential finds is recommended.
- Search after storms or high waves. Storms and high wave action can churn up the lake bottom and deposit new stones on the beaches, increasing the chances of finding them.
- Check gravel and cobble beaches. Petoskey Stones are typically found among other gravel and cobbles, not in sandy areas. Focus your search on rocky beaches.
- Carry a small spray bottle or bucket. Wetting the stones will immediately reveal the characteristic pattern, making identification much easier.
Quick Check
- Color:
- Gray to tan with darker hexagonal patterns.
- Luster:
- Dull to earthy (unpolished), vitreous to waxy (polished).
- Streak:
- White (due to its limestone composition).
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