These Ugly Rocks Are Actually Full of Gemstones (Don't Miss It)

The dullest, ugliest rock in your hand might be hiding the most valuable thing you'll ever find. Five rocks that look like total junk on the outside — gray, greasy, rusty, forgettable — but are the actual host rock or transport vehicle for some of the world's most valuable gemstones. We cover what each one really looks like, why the ugly exterior is actually a good sign, how to test what's inside without destroying it, and how to avoid getting scammed if you find something real. Bonus: going deeper Subscribe to Gem Insider for gem ID, prospecting, and field geology.