How do you get ancient debris in Minecraft?
Where to Find Ancient Debris
Ancient debris generates in the Nether in veins of 1 to 3 blocks, never exposed to air. It is most commonly found at Y-levels 8 to 22, with the best odds at Y=15. It can be found in all Nether biomes, but is more common in Nether Wastes and Basalt Deltas.
The most efficient mining method is to strip mine at Y=15, using beds or TNT to blast large areas, as ancient debris is blast-resistant and will survive explosions. Beds explode in the Nether when used, making them a cheap way to clear netherrack quickly.
Mining and Uses
You must use a diamond or netherite pickaxe to mine ancient debris; otherwise, it drops nothing. Once mined, smelt ancient debris in a furnace or blast furnace to get netherite scraps. Combine 4 netherite scraps with 4 gold ingots to craft one netherite ingot, which is used to upgrade diamond gear to netherite.
Netherite gear is stronger, more durable, and fire-resistant. It also floats in lava, so you won't lose it if you fall in.
Common mistakes
- Using TNT or beds incorrectly and blowing yourself up—always stand back and use a shield.
- Mining at the wrong Y-level; ancient debris is not found above Y=22 or below Y=8.
- Forgetting that ancient debris cannot be mined with iron tools or lower.
