How To Crack Open a Geode

If you've found a rounded rock formation with crystals or banding, you want to crack it open as cleanly and safely as possible.Every geode is unique, and could hold anything from clear, pure quartz crystals to rich purple amethyst crystals, or perhaps agate, chalcedony or minerals.There are more than one way to open a geode.

Step 1: Before attempting to open a geode, you should wear safety glasses.

Step 2: If you want to set the geode on the ground, put it in a sock.

Step 3: If you want to hit the top center of the geode, you have to take a small sledgehammer or rock hammer.

A few strikes might be required to open this rock.This method is likely to result in more than two pieces, but it is the most suitable method for kids.

Step 4: Take a rock or masonry flat chisel, hold at the top of the rock, then hit it with a sledge hammer.

To score the rock, tap lightly.

Step 5: A line around the stone can be created by rotating rock and striking again.

Step 6: Continue until the rock splits open.

If the geode is hollow, it will take a few minutes of gentle scoring to open it, but if it's solid, you'll have to wait longer.

Step 7: The larger the geode, the easier it is to strike it.

If you control the rock with your hand, it will work.Only use this method on small objects.

Step 8: Use a cast iron pipe snap cutter.

You can use this common tool to split a geode into two equal halves.Wrap the tool's chain around your object.

Step 9: Attach the chain to the tool.

Step 10: To apply equal tension, pull down the handle.

It should crack smoothly.The least destructive way to display a geode is natural.

Step 11: You can slice the geode open or into halves with a lapidary diamond blade cutting saw.

Oil can damage the interior of some geodes.