The southeastern part of the state has some of the largest gold transportation, particularly in the mining towns near Cornwall and Morgantown. Gold seekers recommend the Susquehanna River or Peter`s Creek as the perfect pivot points (choose sections near the city of Quarryville). Both have been the site of small gold discoveries, and even one or two small pieces of platinum have been discovered there. Since iron and coal mines have often produced gold as a by-product, you should look into the surrounding beds of mines that have produced gold in the past. Many old mining reports mention gold deposits of a few cents of gold per ton of ore. Although Pennsylvania`s mining history is based on coal and iron ore, these are not the only things miners have extracted from the ground. Although gold was not their target, several thousand ounces of this precious metal have been found over the years as a byproduct of other mining activities throughout the state. In addition to Cornwall, the Grace mine in Morgantown has also reported gold discoveries. Although there is a significant mining industry in the state that has produced gold as a by-product, iron and coal are the main minerals mined. So take a look at the mines near Morgantown and Cornwell, because whenever there is gold production, there will usually be soapy gold in nearby waters, albeit in small quantities.
Pyrite, also known as iron pyrite or fool`s gold, can also be found in the soil of Pennsylvania. Scientists say its prevalence could be related to an Eocene meteor that struck Earth about 35 million years ago. The meteor left a hump known as the Chesapeake Bay Impact Crater, pushing pyrite from the chimney to the Earth`s surface. Another area where gold can be found in Pennsylvania is the mines near the city of New Albany. The New Albany Gold Mine and the Three Brothers Gold Mine are located not far from the city and fine gold can be found in the streams surrounding this area. Jones says there is gold in the east branch of Codorus Creek in Spring Valley Park. Gold can usually be found from Muddy Run to the Mason-Dixon Line and east of Delta. There is also gold in the northern part of the county between Rossville, Wellsville, Dillsburg and Grantham. Once gold has been found in a nearby mine, it is likely that there are loose nuggets in nearby rivers and streams. You can start your hunt by looking for small deposits in local streams. Jeri Jones retires from York County Parks and Recreation on August 3.
He has been with the department for 38 years and has overseen programs such as the Gold Panning Seminar and Christmas Magic. A geologist by training, Jones also studied earthquakes, fossils and gold in York County. In addition, they often have seasonal excursions to various gold-bearing streams in the United States. It`s a great way to learn more about prospecting in Pennsylvania and mingle with like-minded people who love to hunt for gold nuggets! The Susquehanna River flows through the town of Tunkhannock. Gold can be found throughout this region in many streams that flow into the river. Stony Brook Creek, near the town of Bloomsburg, will also produce fine gold. Meshoppen Creek joins the Susquehanna River at Meshoppen and will also produce a “color” for a hard-working prospector. York County is not only one of the main places for gold deposits, it is also home to other gemstones that you can look for. York County has a limestone belt that runs through its central region, which Lieb says is due in part to the state`s geological history. In Lancaster County, near the town of Quarryville, you should visit the Susquehanna River. It is a large river that contains very fine gold.
Even small platinum particles have reportedly been found here. The northern parts of the state, where glaciers have carved terminal moraines, leaving small amounts of gold behind as they retreat, are a good place to start your gold search. These areas of Pennsylvania offer more opportunities to return to rivers and riverbeds to potentially find gold. Jones says he had to build relationships with landowners over the years to be able to mine in the county. He has even returned gold to landowners who allow him access to their waters. There is a pretty decent gold prospecting community in Pennsylvania. If you`re new to prospecting or just want to meet other prospectors in your area, take a look at the different clubs out there. There are currently 4 different chapters of the Gold Prospectors Association of America (GPAA) in Pennsylvania. Many members have a lifetime of experience in gold mining in the state and can be an invaluable source of information. Jeri Jones is York County`s gold expert.
He is the coordinator of York County`s Parks and Recreation Program and also oversees the ministry`s annual gold panning seminar at Spring Valley Park (which was cancelled this year due to rainfall forecasts).
