Ever stumbled upon a gleam of tungsten while metal detecting? Discover where these hidden treasures most frequently lie and why they’re worth your attention!
As a metal detectorist, I’ve always wondered about the places where I can detect Tungsten since it has the highest melting point of all metals which makes it special.
I found that going on a metal detecting expedition in search of tungsten relics is similar to being on a field where historical, natural, and technological marvels converge.
So now that I’ve completed my metal-detecting search for tungsten artifacts, I’m ready to share what I’ve discovered with you.
Here are the, Best Places to Find Tungsten Metal Detecting,
- Historical Places
- Abandoned Mining Places
- National and State Parks
- Beaches
- Fishing Spots
- Parking Lots
- Hiking Paths
- Construction Sites
Above mentioned are some top places you could find tungsten artifacts if you are really looking forward.
Join me in this article; I’ll talk more about where tungsten and tungsten alloys can be found and what we might find there.
The journey begins!
Best Places to Search for Tungsten
During my metal-detecting journey, many people ask me about metal detecting and the valuable things that can be found in certain areas.
Recently, one of my friends asked me if I knew the best places to find tungsten when metal detecting.
I thought I would share my ‘Best Places to Search for Tungsten’ list with you too.
Tip: First you need to make sure your metal detector is capable of finding Tungsten treasures and adjust its settings accordingly!
Here are some places where a metal detector is likely to find tungsten,
1. Historical Places
While metal detecting at historical places like battle battlefields, ruins, or well-known landmarks there is a higher chance of discovering tungsten artifacts due to their historical significance.
Also, there are chances of discovering tungsten nuggets at these locations.
These locations frequently have tungsten items. The following are some common tungsten items that you could discover,
- Military artifacts: In World War II military tools were used and we can ensure that there are made of tungsten or they contain tungsten. So, if you want to find places where tungsten can be found it is better to visit historical sites that have something to do with the military to find military artifacts.
- Tungsten carbide tools: Tungsten carbide is a mixture of tungsten and carbon. For cutting and drilling, different tools are used. So, keep in mind that even though tungsten can be found in these, the amount of pure tungsten may be low.
- Industrial waste: As we all know, tungsten can easily be found in industrial wastes because it is believed that tungsten alloying equipment was used in factories in the past.
2. Abandoned Mining Places
A strong and dense metal, tungsten has been utilized in tools and equipment for mining as well as other industrial uses.
You could discover pieces of equipment, tools, or other artifacts made with tungsten in abandoned mining regions.
The following are some potential products or artifacts that potentially contain tungsten that could be discovered when metal detecting in defunct mining areas:
- Tungsten alloy: As tungsten is found in metal objects we can find them in abandon mining places because they were used in the past.
- Tungsten test weight: You can verify the accuracy and stability of the metal detector by using a set of tungsten test weights. So you’ll be able to find small holes or dark spots near old mine buildings.
- Tungsten carbide: This especially helps you break down the tough dirt and rock near the mine and is a tough, hard material.
3. National and State Parks
I will direct you to Sunstone’s National and State Parks, which are yet another instantly identifiable location.
Coins, jewelry made of tungsten, and other items are frequently found in these locations.
The tungsten objects listed below can come in handy for your metal-detecting endeavors.
- Tungsten alloy detector scoops: These are particularly strong and durable, making it easy for you to dig up targets from the ground.
- Tungsten steel probes: This helps you accurately locate small or shallow targets without damaging them.
- Tungsten-carbide tipped tweezers: These allow you to pick up small items like jewelry or artifacts very delicately.
4. The Beach
Beaches are a wonderful place to look for tungsten-related products.
Due to the constant crowding of people on the beach, people regularly lose a lot of things there.
You will also find material containing tungsten, especially washed ashore.
Despite the fact that tungsten is not typically used in beach-related products and is thus not usually seen on beaches, there are a few circumstances in which you could come across tungsten items close to the water.
Here are some possible examples like,
- Tungsten watches: If you come across a watch band or watch case while metal detecting, you may find tungsten watches so don’t forget to look carefully.
- Tungsten rings: Tungsten rings are often found in high-traffic areas such as near volleyball courts, beach shops, or near the beach.
- Tungsten bracelets: You can often find tungsten bracelets in public areas, near volleyball courts, beach shops, or near the beach.
5. Fishing Spot
If you go metal detecting in fishing areas, you may uncover plenty of tungsten items that fishers or other individuals ended up leaving behind.
You could find numerous tungsten objects that have been left behind by fishermen or other guests when metal detecting at fishing locations.
- Fishing gear: Anglers often use fishing hooks, spinners or lures that may contain tungsten.
- Personal items: While enjoying yourself by the lake, someone may have inadvertently dropped tungsten coins, keys, or jewelry.
- Clothing: During a fishing trip, tungsten alloy buckles, buttons, or snaps from coats, hats, or jackets may have fallen or become misplaced. This way you can easily identify tungsten.
- Hardware for boats or docks: Tungsten bolts, screws or fasteners are used to construct boats or docks at the fishing site.
6. Parking Spaces
There are times when people misplace many things while getting in and out of the vehicle. Some possible tungsten-related items you might come across include.
Let’s see some examples,
- Tungsten steel keys: Some luxury companies carry tungsten steel keys and chances are you can easily find them tungsten.
- Tungsten coins: Although the probability of finding a tungsten coin is low, there is a chance that people will find it if they have misplaced it or left it behind.
- Tungsten jewelry: Rings, earrings, necklaces or pendants made of tungsten may have been left or misplaced in the parking lot.
7. Hiking Paths
Hiking tracks and paths let you venture out into the beautiful outdoors. You are more likely to find tungsten objects at picnic sites and campsites.
Hikers and explorers carelessly leave traces of their journeys, creating an opportunity for you to discover lost items from Tungsten’s past.
Some of the roads used in the past are ancient and were used by traders.
Therefore, these regions may have many goods that traders are missing.
It’s possible to stumble and find some tungsten objects when trekking on paths.
Here are a few illustrations,
- Pots or pans: Near camping spots, some hikers may unintentionally abandon or throw away tungsten pots or pans.
- Relics from the past or antique objects: Depending on the area and history of the hiking trail. You can come across antique tungsten objects like old coins, buckles, buttons, and other tiny metal artifacts may be among them.
8. Construction Sites
While finding pure tungsten while metal detecting on construction sites is less common, tungsten-containing objects or alloys are still possible.
Due to its high melting point and other properties, tungsten is not typically used as a standalone material in construction applications.
Usually, we can find tungsten-coated or alloy items in construction sites.
Let me give you some examples,
- Tungsten steel cutting tools: Tungsten steel, also known as high-speed steel, is used to create cutting tools such as saw blades, chisels, or grinding wheels.
- Tungsten fasteners: You can easily identify this type of tungsten due to the presence of tungsten in fasteners such as screws, bolts, or nuts.
- Tungsten wires or electrodes: You can easily find tungsten wires or electrodes in construction sites where welding activities are involved.
- Tungsten carbide drill bits: Due to their hardness and heat resistance, tungsten carbide is widely used in drill bits.
Tungsten Metal Detecting in the United States
A friend of mine in America, knowing that I am a metal prospector, asked me about states in the United States where tungsten can be discovered.
As I have made the following list of ‘Tungsten Metal Detecting in the United States for him, I decided to share it with you.
Tungsten is a noble metal renowned for its unique properties and is often hidden within the embrace of tungsten-containing minerals and ores.
Uncovering the allure of tungsten through metal detecting reveals a journey through time and industrial heritage.
The following states are noted for their historical importance and the possibility of locating tungsten artifacts.
1. Nevada
A legacy of tungsten mining amid Nevada’s arid landscape resonated with the demands of World War II.
Did you know that this state is used to extract tungsten from scheelite and other mineral deposits?
Remnants of historic mining sites, echoes of abandoned mines, and mineral-rich terrain make the state attractive to those looking for tungsten-related artifacts.
Although metal may remain an enigma, the traces it left behind resonate with the stories of generations past.
Let’s look into some examples,
- Tungsten or tungsten alloy drill bits: These are extensively used in mining and drilling activities, however, they can be abandoned or lost in some regions.
- Tungsten carbide tools or equipment parts: Because of its hardness and endurance, tungsten carbide is a popular material. This substance may be found in abandoned tools or equipment parts.
2. California
California’s landscapes have been shaped by the pursuit of valuable resources, from gold rushes to the lure of tungsten.
The echoes of tungsten mining present hidden treasures waiting to be rediscovered.
These old mining areas and areas associated with the history of tungsten extraction are popular with metal detector enthusiasts.
Let’s look into some examples,
- Tungsten alloys: Tungsten alloys incorporating nickel or copper are used in a variety of applications, including the aerospace and automotive sectors. While tungsten alloy goods are less prevalent in metal detecting, it is possible to stumble across abandoned or misplaced tungsten alloy items.
- Tungsten fishing weights: Because of their density, tungsten weights are popular among anglers. Because these weights are readily lost in lakes, rivers, and streams, they may be discovered while metal detecting near bodies of water.
3. North Carolina
Amid North Carolina’s rugged terrain, tungsten is secretly understated among the pegmatite minerals that call this state home.
Although not well known for tungsten mining, the historic sites and pegmatite formations are promising.
Metal detecting becomes a bridge between the past and the present as explorers find clues to tungsten’s role in North Carolina’s mineral heritage.
Let’s look into some examples,
- Tungsten carbide tools: Tungsten carbide is used in a variety of tools and equipment, including drill bits, cutting tools, and mining machines. While tungsten carbide tools are less prevalent in metal detecting, you may come across abandoned or misplaced tungsten carbide tools.
- Tungsten-based jewelry: Due to its strength and resistance to scratching, tungsten rings, bracelets, and other tungsten jewelry pieces are popular. While metal detecting in parks, beaches, or other public locations, keep a look out for lost or abandoned tungsten jewelry.
In addition to these states, there are some other states too you could possibly go for Tungsten detection,
- Arizona
- South Dakota
- Colorado
Best Countries to Find Tungsten in Metal Detection
If you are like me, interested in detecting tungsten using metal detecting to uncover tungsten artifacts, there are many countries with rich history and archaeological sites.
Exploring the world of metal-detecting tungsten artifacts opens up a global treasure trove that spans continents and cultures as I know.
Since tungsten can’t be precisely identified, many nations have tungsten-bearing minerals and historic sites with artifacts indicating how this remarkable metal was employed.
Many countries with rich history and landmarks are good sites to employ metal detectors to find tungsten artifacts.
Tungsten artifacts may be found in these countries due to their history.
Australia
One of the countries I have explored in my 15 years of metal-detecting history is Australia. Australia’s vast expanses have a long history of mining and mineral extraction.
Gold districts in Australia, known for their massive mines, contain tungsten. Metal detectorists can find tungsten artifacts at mines and ancient sites throughout.
Tungsten jewelry and other artifacts are often found on decades-old beaches.
The Goldfields’ sun-kissed beaches and jewels have enchanted tourists for centuries. The Australian goldfields are tungsten-rich.
In addition to these countries, there are some other countries you could possibly go for Tungsten detection,
- Canada
- China
Congrats folks! Now you have a clear idea about the best places to find Tungsten metal detecting with general locations, Best places in the US and all around the world.
Spain and Portugal were the first countries to mine tungsten in the 1700s.
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So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
FAQs
What is Tungsten and why is it valuable?
Tungsten, with the chemical symbol ‘W’, is a hard, dense metal with the highest melting point of all the elements, making it incredibly useful for applications in electronics, aerospace, and the military. Its unique properties and scarcity drive its value in various industries.
What settings should I use on my metal detector for Tungsten?
For tungsten detection, set your metal detector to a higher sensitivity level and consider using a smaller coil for better target separation. Discrimination should be low or off to ensure the device doesn’t overlook tungsten items amidst potential trash.
Are there legal considerations when detecting for Tungsten?
Absolutely! Before metal detecting, especially in historical or protected sites, ensure you have the necessary permissions. Trespassing or unauthorized excavation can result in legal consequences and damages to vital archaeological resources.
How deep can Tungsten be detected?
The detection depth for tungsten depends on the metal detector’s capabilities and the size of the tungsten piece. Generally, smaller fragments are detectable up to a few inches deep, while larger objects might be located deeper, even several feet beneath the surface.
Is Tungsten only found alone, or is it combined with other metals?
In nature, tungsten is usually found combined with other elements, primarily in the forms of wolframite and scheelite minerals. However, in manufactured products or discarded items, tungsten could be both in its pure form or alloyed with other metals.
What’s the difference between Tungsten and Tungsten Carbide?
While tungsten is a pure metal, tungsten carbide is a chemical compound made up of tungsten and carbon. Tungsten carbide is harder and more wear-resistant than pure tungsten, making it popular for use in industrial tools and jewelry.
How can I ensure the piece I found is indeed Tungsten?
To accurately determine if you’ve found tungsten, consider its heft (it’s a dense metal) and appearance. However, the most reliable method would be through specific gravity tests, chemical analysis, or consulting an expert.
Did I cover all you wanted to know about the Best Places to Find Tungsten Metal Detecting
In this article, I’ve deeply explored the best places to find tungsten metal detecting both inside and outside of the United States.
I’ve included what type of tungsten valuables you might find in those areas based on my personal experience.
The best places to find tungsten while metal detecting are old mine sites known for wolframite and scheelite, historical industrial areas, and old battlefields or dumping grounds where tungsten items might have been discarded. Ensure you have necessary permissions before exploring to avoid legal issues.
Furthermore, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions as well.
Hope you’ve learned everything you wanted to know about the best places to find Tungsten treasures when metal detecting with examples.
Now it’s time to book your next metal detecting session to travel for tungsten treasure hunting! Happy hunting!
