Keokuk Geodes
Easily Find and Collect Iowa's World-Famous Geodes
Published on 21. May 2026
Book
Paperback/Softback
24 pages
978-1-64755-488-0 (ISBN)
Description
Uncover the secrets of Keokuk Geodes with this pocket-size booklet-perfect for identifying, collecting, and displaying these crystal treasures of nature.
Whether you're a seasoned rockhound, a curious beginner, or a geology enthusiast, keep this convenient guide close at hand. Written by expert collector Jim Magnuson, this beautiful booklet is packed with everything you need to know about the world-famous geodes found in southeastern Iowa, northeastern Missouri, and western Illinois, with the epicenter around Keokuk, Iowa.
Begin with an introduction to these natural wonders, including their geography and how they form. Learn about the annual festival devoted to these geodes, including a bit of local history and points of interest. Then let the rock hunting begin! You'll get expert insights on where to look and what to look for, as well as essential safety tips. An identification section introduces you to 25 types of geodes, with details about the kinds of crystals and cubes inside-showcasing quartz, calcite, pyrite, UV-reactive minerals, and more. You'll also appreciate Jim's advice on how to open your finds and some of the best ways to display them.
Bring this durable, lightweight quick guide along on your next rockhounding trip and discover why Keokuk Geodes have earned their place among the most fascinating natural wonders.
Quick guide features:
Pocket-size format-easier than laminated foldouts
Identification guide to 25 important types of geodes
Expert guidance on finding, opening, and displaying geodes
Information about commercial dig sites and hunting locations
Safety tips, festival information, and more
Whether you're a seasoned rockhound, a curious beginner, or a geology enthusiast, keep this convenient guide close at hand. Written by expert collector Jim Magnuson, this beautiful booklet is packed with everything you need to know about the world-famous geodes found in southeastern Iowa, northeastern Missouri, and western Illinois, with the epicenter around Keokuk, Iowa.
Begin with an introduction to these natural wonders, including their geography and how they form. Learn about the annual festival devoted to these geodes, including a bit of local history and points of interest. Then let the rock hunting begin! You'll get expert insights on where to look and what to look for, as well as essential safety tips. An identification section introduces you to 25 types of geodes, with details about the kinds of crystals and cubes inside-showcasing quartz, calcite, pyrite, UV-reactive minerals, and more. You'll also appreciate Jim's advice on how to open your finds and some of the best ways to display them.
Bring this durable, lightweight quick guide along on your next rockhounding trip and discover why Keokuk Geodes have earned their place among the most fascinating natural wonders.
Quick guide features:
Pocket-size format-easier than laminated foldouts
Identification guide to 25 important types of geodes
Expert guidance on finding, opening, and displaying geodes
Information about commercial dig sites and hunting locations
Safety tips, festival information, and more
More details
Language
English
Place of publication
Cambridge
United States
Illustrations
Color photos throughout
Dimensions
Height: 190 mm
Width: 111 mm
Thickness: 12 mm
Weight
82 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-64755-488-0 (9781647554880)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Person
Rockhounding is more than a hobby for Jim Magnuson; it's a serious and rewarding avocation that helps him connect with nature. He has been an avid hunter and student of various gems, minerals, and fossils since his childhood. Jim conducts in-depth and hands-on agate hunting and lapidary workshops. He is also a member of the Cuyuna Rock, Gem & Mineral Society and the Minnesota Mineral Club. He lives in central Minnesota.
Content
Adventure Quick Guides
Keokuk Geode Geography and Geology
The Keokuk Geode Festival
Local History and Points of Interest
Where to Hunt for and Find Keokuk Geodes
Geode-Hunting Overview
Hunting Tips and Safety
Geode Identification Guide
Fossils
Opening Geodes
Display and Decorative Ideas
Rock and Mineral Tools
Reference Information
About the Author
Keokuk Geode Geography and Geology
The Keokuk Geode Festival
Local History and Points of Interest
Where to Hunt for and Find Keokuk Geodes
Geode-Hunting Overview
Hunting Tips and Safety
Geode Identification Guide
Fossils
Opening Geodes
Display and Decorative Ideas
Rock and Mineral Tools
Reference Information
About the Author