Topaz is not commercially mined in Texas as it is in many countries. You could buy a crystal, but where's the fun in that? Wouldn't it be more adventurous to dig for your very own Texas topaz in the hills of Mason county?
A topaz hunter can use a type of screed, sort of a gold-panning method to sort through other rocks and minerals. Because it's a heavy mineral, topaz will sink to the bottom. But no fancy equipment is required. Those who regularly search for stones suggest looking anywhere the raw stones could lodge - near roots, tree stumps, changes in creek directions or at the base of rock clefts.
The Mason County Chamber of Commerce and various local ranch websites list guided tours and self-guided excursions in the county. By contacting their listings, you can find all the information you need regarding reservations, gear and prices. According to the CoC, if you find a stone on your expedition, you can keep it!
The following information is publicly listed, but please check before you go. There can be changes due to weather or other conditions and many sites may be closed during hunting seasons. This list is meant for informational purposes and may not include all tours and guides available. Check with the Mason County CoC located at 108 Ft McKavitt Street for more information. Contact them: PO Box 156, Mason, TX 76856, phone 325/347-5758, fax 325/347-5259 or view their website at masontxcoc.com or their Facebook page.
Check for specific prices, but costs range from about $15 - $30 per day for adults; children's prices are discounted. Some ranches have guided services or you can hunt for topaz on your own. Equipment is also available at some locations. Advance reservations may be required.
A word of caution: be aware of private property and State laws. Always seek permission. Do not trespass, cross fences or enter open rangeland.
Seaquist Ranch: 325-347-5413. Open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. - sunset. Closed Nov - mid/January. www.masontexastopaz.com.
Lindsay Ranch (Cabin on Comanche Creek): You can stay at one of the ranch's two B&Bs or camping is available. Call 325-347-5733 or cell ph: 325-347-4052. Email: [email protected], www.lindsayranch.net.
Bar M Ranch: Campsites and other activities available. Call 830-203-1611. http://barmranchservices.com/topaz.
Baringer Hill Minerals: Call 512-848-8309 or 210-240-1509. Email [email protected]. www.baringerhill.com. Note: Baringer's website indicates due to weather, exploration and maintenance of sites, Emerald Hill may not be open after the Dec. 20, 2014 tour.
A 48-carat topaz has been found on the Seaquist Ranch and there could still be some monsters to grab at any of the properties.
Make memories looking for treasure. It's a cinch you won't have a tale to tell if you don't go. So try a new adventure and go hunting. No gun, no license required and like all good hunting and fishing stories, who knows, you may find a huge chunk and you too can say . . . I FOUND A TEXAS TOPAZ AND IT WAS T-H-I-S BIG!!
