La Madera (dumortierite area): Dumortierite & Specularite Rockhounding in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico

Updated June 2026

La Madera (dumortierite area) is a mapped rockhounding spot in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico. Reported finds include dumortierite, specularite, chert. Below: coordinates, access notes, nearby spots, and trip-planning links.

Quick details

Access: Public area
County: Rio Arriba County
State: New Mexico
Postcode: 87539
Coordinates: 36.38098, -106.03463

Geology at La Madera (dumortierite area)

This spot sits on quartzite, mapped as quartzite that formed roughly 1800 to 1600 million years ago. Metamorphic rock like this weathers into resistant float, and minerals that survive transport typically concentrate in nearby drainages.

Mapped unit: quartzite
Age: 1800–1600 Ma (Paleoproterozoic)
Rock types: quartzite
Elevation: 6,770 ft

Geologic mapping via Macrostrat and the underlying state geological survey maps (CC BY 4.0). Bedrock at the surface can vary within a mapped unit.

Best time to visit La Madera (dumortierite area)

Best months: February to November. Typical highs run 85°F in midsummer and 42°F in midwinter, with winter lows near 18°F.

Climate normals: NOAA 1991-2020 monthlies, EL RITO station (9 mi away).

Land & collecting status

Generally open to casual rockhounding

Most public-tagged spots sit on BLM, U.S. Forest Service, or other federal land where reasonable hand collecting of common rocks and minerals is allowed. Confirm posted rules and active mining claims before you dig.

Public-land rules vary by agency, season, and field office. The RockHoundR app pulls live BLM, USFS, NPS, and tribal overlays so you can see exactly which agency manages the ground at this spot.

Sources & verification

Spot details combine the public RockHoundR location dataset, normalized mineral labels, agency land-status checks in the app, and community submissions. Coordinates are approximate until verified in the field.

State guidance last verified: April 1, 2026

Rockhound State Park — Collection rules
BLM New Mexico
New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources
Community submissions reviewed against published agency rules

Found at La Madera (dumortierite area)

Each chip opens all spots that produce that material; the encyclopedia link opens the full ID and field guide.

Nearby rockhounding spots

Other rockhounding spots within driving distance of La Madera (dumortierite area).

La Madera (dumortierite area) FAQ

Where is La Madera (dumortierite area)?+

La Madera (dumortierite area) is in Rio Arriba County, New Mexico, at 36.38098, -106.03463.

What rocks and minerals can you find at La Madera (dumortierite area)?+

La Madera (dumortierite area) is reported to produce Dumortierite, Specularite, Chert.

Is collecting allowed at La Madera (dumortierite area)?+

Generally open to casual rockhounding. Most public-tagged spots sit on BLM, U.S. Forest Service, or other federal land where reasonable hand collecting of common rocks and minerals is allowed. Confirm posted rules and active mining claims before you dig. Always confirm current rules with the managing agency before a trip.

What tools should I bring to La Madera (dumortierite area)?+

Most agate and jasper is surface float: bring a spray bottle, a pick or small shovel, and a sturdy bag. Wet stones show their banding and translucence.

When is the best time to visit La Madera (dumortierite area)?+

The most comfortable months at La Madera (dumortierite area) are February to November.

How do I get to La Madera (dumortierite area)?+

Open the directions link to navigate to 36.38098, -106.03463 in Google Maps. Some spots are remote, so check road conditions before driving out.

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