On a recent day trip to visit the Very Large Array (VLA) 2 hours southwest of Albuquerque, my family and I stumbled upon Otero’s Gem & Mineral Rock Shop in Magdalena, NM. The open sign was on so of course we had to make a quick u-turn (legally!) and stop in.

A 45 minute drive to the northwest of Albuquerque brings you to the Ojito Wilderness. Stunning views and a great place to hunt for rocks! Selenite, obsidian, septarian, calcite, and a guaranteed great day!