04/07/2026
Come get some coffee and check out our museum! If you want to come play in the dirt, our public crystal dig is open Tuesday-Sunday!
💎 The Largest Turquoise Stone Ever Found in the United States! 💎
When people think of turquoise, they usually picture the deserts of the Southwest--but what many don’t realize is that Arkansas holds the record for the largest turquoise nugget ever found in the United States… and it’s right here in the Ouachita Mountains.
Back in 1982, something incredible was unearthed in Polk County at what is now known as the Mona Lisa Mine. What started as a massive turquoise boulder--estimated between 380 and 500 pounds--was eventually polished down to an astonishing 245-pound gemstone, making it the largest known turquoise nugget in North America. 🏆
Today, the mine is owned by Avant Mining, which acquired the property and its assets in 2017--including two tons of turquoise rough and this record-breaking stone. The Mona Lisa Mine remains especially unique, as it is the only gem-quality turquoise mine in the eastern half of the United States.
If you want to see this local legend in person, it’s still right here in Arkansas, on display at the Avant Mining Fisher Mountain Rock Shop in Mount Ida.
11 Logan Gap Rd
Mt Ida, AR 71957
(870) 985-9988
The rock shop isn’t just a place to see history--it’s an experience. Visitors can explore the free museum, browse unique gifts, and even head out to dig for their own crystals at the historic Ocus Stanley Claim, the oldest public dig site in the state, operating since 1946.
Public digging is available Tuesday through Sunday (9 AM – 5 PM), with affordable permits for all ages--making it a perfect stop for families, rockhounds, and anyone curious about Arkansas’s hidden natural wealth.
PUBLIC DIG PERMIT PRICING
$20 - Seniors 60+
$25 per adult
$10 - Age 7 to 17
Kids 6 & under are free of charge
$25 Tool Kits are available for purchase in our shop
From quartz crystals to record-breaking turquoise, Avant Mining has built a reputation as one of the leading mineral producers in the world--while staying committed to environmentally responsible practices right here in Arkansas.
The story of this massive turquoise nugget is more than just a record--it’s a reminder that Arkansas is full of surprises. From the ridges of Porter Mountain to the depths of the Ouachita National Forest, you never know what kind of world-class discovery might be waiting just beneath your feet.
And in this case, one of the greatest ever found is still right here… waiting to be seen.
😎
1-888-FUN-AR-01
Jim Stipe Productions, PLLC
Your Event Photographer/Videographer for hire by contract. 📸 🎥 🧾
(This post falls under the Fair Use Act of 1976 for media publication.)
© 2026 Jim Stipe Productions, PLLC. All rights reserved.
