Union College Geology Field Trip to the Herkimer Diamond Mine
![herkimer_map](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_map.jpg)
Google Earth map, highlighting Exit 30 on I-90 in New York State, and the mine, campground, and museum location. See their web site for fees, hours, detailed directions, and camping. Basically, from the Herkimer Exit 30 on I-90, head north on Rt. 28 until you get there.
![herkimer_2010_j](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_j.jpg)
How to find the diamonds? Step 1: Find a rock that speaks to you: “I have diamonds in me”.
![herkimer_2010_i](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_i.jpg)
Step 2: Hit it. Most of the rocks are silent, or are lying to you. Sometimes you get lucky.
![herkimer_2010_b](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_b.jpg)
Tools of the trade: hammers of various sizes, goggles, patience, and a big smile.
![herkimer_2010_c](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_c.jpg)
This rock lied to me!
![herkimer_2010_d](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_d.jpg)
Playing frisbee after lunch, with the frisbee plates that came with the sandwich shop lunch.
![herkimer_2010_g](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_g.jpg)
After breaking a rock, look at the pieces for signs of diamonds.
![herkimer_2010_e](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_f.jpg)
Smashing away all day at gray rocks can be tiring. Look at the scenery once in awhile. Outside of the gray quarry, it’s quite pretty.
![herkimer_2010_h](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_h.jpg)
All smiles when diamonds are found! Keep smashing, there might be more in there.
![herkimer_2010_k](https://muse.union.edu/hollochk/files/2021/07/herkimer_2010_k.jpg)
This is what you look like after a day of smashing rocks. All smiles! This is inside the enormous gift shop, which has lots of rocks, minerals, Herkimer diamonds, and jewlery made from Herkimer diamonds. There is also a nice little museum upstairs, don’t forget to take a look!