Opening Your Geodes

I will start by answering one of the most common questions asked about geodes…”Can you tell what is inside a geode before your open it?” The answer is a resounding NO. Every geode is unique and different, which is one of the aspects that makes them so interesting. With experience, you may discover that geodes with similar external characteristics (such as collecting location, outer shell colors, textures, etc.) may produce similar internal characteristics. As observant as that is, you will also quickly realize that it is simply impossible to be 100 percent sure of what you will find once you get your geode open. Sorry. Some of the best geode specimens discovered were the result of a lucky break.

With that being said, geodes are easily opened with a hammer and chisel. It may take a little patience and practice depending on your preference, but in no time you will discover just how easy they are to open.

IMPORTANT! When opening geodes, you must remember that geodes come in all shapes, sizes, and shell thicknesses. Always begin by gently tapping the geode and gradually increase your intensity until it opens. This will help avoid smashing your geode into a bunch of pieces, unless that is your desired outcome. The following opening techniques are listed in order of difficulty and will help you get your geode cracked open quickly and easily

MORE IMPORTANT! Be sure to take the proper safety precautions by wearing eye protection. Nothing ruins the fun more than a trip to the emergency room for a rock shard in the eye. Also, watch out for little fingers. Geodes can contain quartz and crystals which can be sharp. Striking your fingers with a hammer is no picnic either

Hammer Method.

If you have small children who just want to get to the crystals, simply begin by tapping the geode with a hammer until it breaks. This method can result in multiple geode pieces, which is usually desired by young rockhounds due to all the new crystals now exposed. It is also a good opportunity to reinforce sharing as everyone can get a piece. For those not wanting to break their geode in multiple pieces, the following techniques can increase your chances at achieving 2 halves. Remember, as with anything, it takes practice.

Hammer and Chisel Method.

To get 2-3 pieces, use a hammer and chisel to score a line around the geode perimeter, weakening it along the score. Once satisfied with your scoring line, place your chisel on the line and hit it with a hammer. The geode should pop open giving you your desired outcome. Sometimes when opening a geode a crack develops. In this case, using your chisel, tap the geode along the crack until it opens. It might not have been your preferred opening, but a lot of times you will find that you get a “lucky” break, by avoiding breaking beautiful crystals, clusters and features by following your original break.

Grinder/Tile Saw Method.

If you feel comfortable using a grinder or tile saw, this may prove to be an easier and quicker way to open your geodes. If using this method, use the grinder wheel or tile saw blade to score a line around the perimeter. After scoring your geode, tap the geode with your hammer/chisel until it opens. This is a great way to prepare a bunch of geodes for cracking if you have a group of young rockhounds wanting to open geodes. Additionally, you may also elect to cut the geode in half in this manner. If you chose this way know that you run the risk of cutting through any secondary crystals or other features that may be inside. You may also want to decide if you prefer a natural or cut look to your geode before cutting it in half.

Geode Cracker/Pipe Cutter.

This is by far the easiest, most accurate way to open geodes and get two equal halves. The only drawback is they are expensive to purchase. If you are fortunate enough to be friends with a plumber, you may be able to have them assist you in opening your geodes. Many rock shops have pipe cutters and may offer to help you as well. You can also check with your local equipment store for the option of renting one.

This method involves wrapping the chain around the geode and squeezing the levers together like scissors until it pops open. The chain has wheels that, when squeezed, apply pressure around the perimeter of the geode breaking it open. There are also other types of pipe cutters that use a ratcheting or hydraulic system to tighten the chain, but the concept is the same. See slideshow below for example.

These are some of the more common methods for opening geodes, but you must choose what is easiest for you. You may come up with a totally different way of breaking your geode open. Whatever the method, the main objective is getting this rather plain looking rock open and discover the beauty hidden inside.