Unsalted gem mines in nc.
Unsalted gem mines in nc Check out their Elijah Mountain Gem Mine, Hendersonville, North Carolina. Providing all the equipment needed, you will find gems from all over the world including topaz, amethyst, citrine, ruby, sapphire, peridot, garnet, smokey quartz, aquamarine, and emerald among others in every bucket you buy. Mostly they play the game lined up beside flumes of running water in which they sieve gem-bearing reddish dirt that's purchased by the bucketful. The pricing of the buckets are very affordable and are filled with loads of gems. This is a great place to bring the entire family, and the kids will love sifting through the dirt to find gems. Rockhounds love it here as we offer true Native dirt/rubies that are unsalted (nothing added). Feb 7, 2021 · The Cherokee Mine offers some of the fines, unsalted alluvial gem mining in the US. Spanish Conquistador Hernando de Sota ventured through the area in the 16th century, searching for gold and other treasures. 692. Jackson Hole Gem Mine has been Family Owned & Operated since 1977. Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains Rose Creek Mine is one of the most spectacular Gem Mines located in the state of North Carolina. They also offer jewelry settings in 14-karat gold and sterling silver, finished jewelry, gifts, and mineral specimens. Updated By Chris Murphy. You will have many dump/spoil piles to search through, about 5-6 acres, or you may search for a veins but this method is much harder style and can or cannot pay off. Greater Foscoe Mining Company, located on highway 105, Gem Mining Boone NC, indoor and outdoor flume NC Gem mining, buckets can also be shipped. Offering both unsalted and enhanced options as well as mining tours, Rose Creek Mine truly has something for everyone. ” The small town hosts gem shows, rock shops and gem mining. Jan 12, 2025 · Secrets of North Carolina's Nantahala Mines. Its “unsalted”, meaning everything you will find came from this actual mine. The Elijah Mountain Gem Mine is one of the highest-rated spots for gem mining in NC. It was found at Hiddenite near Statesville, SC. Mine for gems at Crystal Mountain Gem Mine and keep what you find! Easily accessible from Asheville, Hendersonville, and Brevard! The Crabtree Mine is just about the only unsalted emerald mine that's open to the public. It is a t We had an adventure at the Rose Creek Mine and found some great gems and rocks. He gave a demo and he lets you use his lights which help identify gems. For more than 80 years the mine has produced many varieties of mineral specimens and is open to the public. In addition to the best mining experience with indoor and covered mining, we have an on-site goat farm, peacock habitat, creek to play in, family Stay at Sheffield Gem Mine Experience comfortable cabin rentals, full facility RV parking and enticing tent camping. Based in Spruce Pine and Burnsville, NC, Gem Mountain features mine trips, flume mining, jewelry making, and more for visitors of all ages! (828) 765-6130. North Carolina’s expansive history includes centuries of gem mining. In fact, western North Carolina is known as “the gem capital of the world. Emerald Village is the local representative. You may view the exhibits, visit the gift shop, or mine you own gem stones. They had an option between rainbow buckets which have lots of beautiful gems and Ruby buckets which are true Rubies from the actual mine! Many of the other mines had rubies from various countries. Top 10 Best Gem Mining in Cherokee, NC 28719 - February 2025 - Yelp - Old Cardinal Gem Mine, Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine, Rose Creek Mine, Rockhound Ridge Gem Mine, Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine, Maggie Valley Rock Shop, R&R Indoor Gem Mine, Gold City Gem Mine, Great Smokey Gem Mine, Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine Nov 27, 2022 · My wife wanted to go gem mining and found that Western NC was a prime location for rubies, sapphires and emeralds. Our experienced staff will explain the various sizes of buckets available and show you how to search for gems using sifters and water flumes. We have 6+ acres of dirt that is loaded with quartz crystals to surface collect or to dig through. Come spend a great day of mining with us out of the heat. You'll Brevard's #1 Family Attraction! Gem Mining Downtown Brevard, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, the Nantahala Mines offer a treasure trove of hidden gems and fascinating history. This means that everything you find (rubies, sapphires, etc. But we now offer enriched buckets for those who lack the time or the ability to do the full mining experience. Cherokee, NC - Top 10 Best Gem Mining - January 2025 - Yelp - Old Cardinal Gem Mine, Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine, Rose Creek Mine, Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine, Rockhound Ridge Gem Mine, Maggie Valley Rock Shop, R&R Indoor Gem Mine, Great Smokey Gem Mine, Gold City Gem Mine, Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine Explore the Best Gem Mines in North Carolina Elijah Mountain Gem Mine. The rocks, minerals, and gemstones produced here are virtually unrivaled by anywhere else in the United States. It is a popular destination for gem mining enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to find a variety of gemstones, including rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethyst, fossils, geodes, and many more. 6,603 likes · 98 talking about this · 10,735 were here. 6560 The gem mine on Elijah Mountain is Western North Carolina’s go-to for a day of mining and family fun. Gem mining has been a favorite activity for visitors to the Franklin area for years. Definitely disappointed compared to our experiences that other gem mines. Explore top gem mining spots in North Carolina and uncover beautiful gems like emeralds, rubies, and more. Due to the large equipment used while digging veins, many pieces are lost or missed. Everyday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 Gem Mines. 00 Admission Discount (Military ID Card is Required Upon Admission) One discount per customer. At Elijah Mountain Gem Mine in Hendersonville, NC, you become a prospector from the 1800's and mine for real gem stones that you can keep! Gems found daily include Rubys, Sapphires, Emeralds, Quartz crystals, Citrine, Amethyst, Garnets, Moonstone, Fluorite, Aquamarine Crystal, geodes, fossils and more! At the time these mines were surveyed, 301 mines in North Carolina were observed to have ore mineralization in an outcrop, shallow pit, or isolated drill hole—known as an occurance mine. Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains Mason's is one of very few natural (read: unsalted) gem mines left in NC. This is an Authentic Ruby/Sapphire Mine that has been operating since the 1950’s. com. The mine is known for its unsalted gem ore, meaning all gems found are naturally occurring. 00 per person Children ages 6-12: $20. Book one of our Asheville area mountain cabins today. Jul 5, 2023 · Macon County, North Carolina is home to numerous gem mines that are open to the public. In addition to the best mining experience with indoor and covered mining, we have an on-site goat farm, peacock habitat, creek to play in, family Includes One (1) Pre-Filled Buckets of our 100% Unsalted Gem Ore. Nov 29, 2017 · Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine: Unsalted mine - See 278 traveler reviews, 168 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. WORLD-CLASS GEM MINING FOR 60 YEARS! Our native dirt pile is where your gem mining experience begins. There are many gem mines to choose from - especially the Cowee Valley. Few mines offer ore of high enough quality to catch the interest of locals if they didn’t salt it. We went searching for rubies and sapphires in the great smoky mo Pisgah Forest Gem Mine and Gifts 507 N. Definitely a very commercialized place. Operating since 1952, Rose Creek Mine is a true state licensed gem mine in Macon County, North Carolina. We also offer enriched buckets so everyone can find something to love! Masons mine is a safe, fun, and unique experience to add to your family trip! We will open for the Season March 19th 2020 Oct 3, 2013 · Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine: Only real unsalted gem mine in Franklin area - See 278 traveler reviews, 168 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. Fakes & Frauds Salted Mines of North Carolina. Most of the other NC mines offer "enriched" (salted) gem dirt and are basically tourist traps, perfect for the Myrtle Beach/Gatlinburg crowd. Thoroughly enjoyed! ♦️💎 Mar 25, 2007 · Gems and GemologyOpen discussion area. Apr 4, 2025 · The Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine stands out as a prime location for sapphire hunting. Once the site of an early gold rush, North Carolina quickly become even more famous for the incredibly abundant and diverse gems 2422 Blowing Rock Road (Hwy 321), Boone Our main location open year-round The Sheffield Mine was best mine out of the 6 we went to. 00 per additional bucket of our 100% Unsalted Gem Ore. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Visit us on Facebook at Apr 11, 2024 · Boone’s Top-Rated Attraction is Foggy Mountain Gem Mine. Discover the best locations for gem mining in North Carolina, including Gem Mountain, Crabtree Emerald Mine, and Rose Creek Mine. Sugar Creek Gem Mine makes prospecting for North Carolina gemstones fun and enjoyable for guests of all ages and experience levels. Tiffany’s was the first to mine this location. Mine for gems at Crystal Mountain Gem Mine and keep what you find! Easily accessible from Asheville, Hendersonville, and Brevard! We are located between Franklin, NC and Sylva, NC on Highway 441 in the Western North Carolina Smoky Mountains. Customers love finding amazonite, topaz and garnets especially Specialties: Foggy Mountain Gem Mine has been family owned and operated for generations. 70 45 Crabtree Mine in Little Switzerland, NC Sharpes Emerald Prospect has closed for good. At a few of the spots, customers are given the opportunity to pan in creek beds or dig at the actual mines. Jan 2, 2025 · Pigeon Forge Gem Mine is a family-owned gemstone mining attraction in Pigeon Forge. With Sugar Creek Gem Mine you can expect the highest quality service, experienced gemologists on staff and first class mining equipment. Here's a map showing the gem mines in the Franklin area. Zach was there the day I went. This is the official page for Elijah Mountain Gem Please call 423-323-5680 for scheduling events, parties, or other fun filled activities at Cooper's Gem Mine. Elijah Gem Mining Elijah Mountain 2120 Brevard Road Hendersonville, NC 828. In North Carolina, recreational gem hunting is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). The Cherokee Mine offers some of the fines, unsalted alluvial gem mining in the US. This year, however, Rose Creek was closed for restocking during our trip so we decided to try Old Cardinal. We made the trip from AL to give it a go. While… Read More »Main Street Hendersonville Location Nov 4, 2019 · What a fun day. Visitors often discover sapphires in the mine’s rich alluvial deposits, which contain minerals washed down from the surrounding mountains over millions of years. This Please call 423-323-5680 for scheduling events, parties, or other fun filled activities at Cooper's Gem Mine. We are the choice Gem Mine in our area because of the experience that is offered our guests by our knowledgeable staff, and because we offer buckets of the finest gem ore from the best gem mines in Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains I can recommend Rose Creek Mine in Franklin NC- great facility and customers process dirt excavated from a placer deposit- not salted- I found several star sapphires there, had one cut: 1. Top traveler ranked gem mine in North Carolina, Elijah Mountain Gem Mine has been voted the #22 Thing to Do in the USA and the #4 Family-Friendly Fun activity in the world on TripAdvisor, 2021. We do not “salt” the piles. Those interested in trying their hand at gem mining can choose between “salted” and “unsalted” mines. Jul 9, 2015 · Mason's Ruby & Sapphire Mine: Salted or Unsalted - See 415 traveler reviews, 101 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. We offer both an “unsalted” digging experience and a variety of excellent “enhanced” gem mining options. He was knowledgeable and very nice. Emeralds, sapphires, rubies, aquamarine, tourmaline, garnet, amethyst, citrine, smoky quartz, topaz, and many others are waiting to be discovered! The finest in colored gems from around the world, museum-quality mineral specimens, and unique gifts. We offer both an “unsalted” digging experience and a variety of excellent May 30, 2021 · This is a real deal unsalted mine. Buckets are already dug onsite filled for you. Phone: (828)-625-5524 or (828) 625-9885 [email protected] Found a few small gems. info@gemmountain. 00 per person Children under age 6 are free with a paid adult (max of 2 children per adult) Mason's Sapphire Mine is an all-natural, dig your own sapphire mine that has been in operation since 1942 in Franklin NC. 898. We have been operating with the same owners for almost 25 years and Gold City is actually shown on most road maps. In Georgia, gemstone mining is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains Research “Cowee Valley” Mines- there are several mines open now, most are “unsalted” and you may find some ruby but if she is looking for something special- you may find some rhodolite garnet- and the color of the garnet in NC is something absolutely magical. 5 miles off I-26 at Exit 49 B. Foggy Mountain Gem Mine's indoor mine is open Sheffield Gem Mine, Franklin, North Carolina. We are the choice Gem Mine in our area because of the experience that is offered our guests by our knowledgeable staff, and because we offer buckets of the finest gem ore from the best gem mines in the world. We offer the cleanes t mine around with a covered flume to search for your treasures rain or shine. Discounts cannot be combined, conjoined, transferred, conferred, or multiplied. Let's dig into the secrets of the Operating since 1952, Rose Creek Mine is a true state licensed gem mine in Macon County, North Carolina. Shefield Mine was purchased by us in 2000, but it has been open to the public for about 50 years before that. 2120 Brevard Rd, Hendersonville. Military Veterans: $5. 5cm in diameter. It is a t Cooper’s Gem Mine – Just south of Blountville, this family-friendly public mine allows you to dig for a variety of gemstones like quartz and garnets for a small fee. You might have seen Sheffield Mine on the Travel ChanneL. The mine provides all the necessary equipment and guidance for a successful gem mining adventure, making it accessible to beginners and seasoned prospectors alike. We offer both an “unsalted” digging experience and a variety of excellent Mason's Mine is still a native dig your own gem mine, which it has been since the 1950's. The Morefield offers something for both the amateur or advanced rock hunter alike. Still producing - some Rubies are over 100cts though most are anywhere from tiny chips to about 50cts. Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine is a “placer” gem mine bearing deposits of ancient sand, dirt, and gravel which were left behind by ancient glaciers, rivers, or other flowing waters, that contain precious gems and other semi-precious gems and minerals. Now, the entire family can have a hand in discovering what will be one of their most memorable finds and prized possessions. Surrounded by nature in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, North Carolina is, without question, one of the premier rockhounding destinations in the entire world. Wash away the dirt while you look out at our Randall Glen mountain, then sort through the gravel that's left. Digging through the dumps is available for $25 per day for ages 13 and up, $5 per day for ages 5-12, and free for 4 and under. As you read on you’ll discover our heritage as “Gem Capital of the World” as well as how to mine, what to look for as you mine, and complete descriptions of active mines in the greater Franklin area! Keep in mind most mines are open from spring through Jul 8, 2012 · Sheffield Mine: Unsalted Mine! - See 156 traveler reviews, 24 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. 2422 Blowing Rock Road (Hwy 321 Jul 14, 2020 · Just a short video of a quick stop we took at the Sheffield mine in Franklin North Carolina. You are out in the mud (if it's raining) or hot sun and there is no guarantee that you will find something. Apr 29, 2025 - Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. This is recognized as one of the most unique and interesting geological locations in North America. Chimney Rock, NC 28720. 2120 Brevard Road, Hendersonville, NC (30 minute drive) From Brevard- Take Hwy 64 East about 12 The flumes are covered for rain or shine mining. We visit Rose Creek Mine each year for gem mining. NOTE: Cherokee Mine is OPEN 2. In short, what I’m referring to are pay-to-dig sites. address= 9410 SYLVA RD HWY 441N, FRANKLIN, NORTH CAROLINA 28374 Jan 2, 2025 · Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine is located in Manor County, North Carolina. Franklin, NC 28734 We are located in the mountain community of Boone, which is in the beautiful High Country of North Carolina. If you have any questions, call us at (828) 524-5850! Mine for gemstones and explore emerald mines in North Carolina by visiting Gem Mountain. All of our gemstone ore is 100% from our on-site excavation. - See 278 traveler reviews, 168 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. Our North Carolina Gemstone Mine is located in the awesome Big Deal Mine, an impressive historic underground mine that produced a variety of gems and minerals. Brevard's #1 Family Attraction! Gem Mining Downtown Brevard, North Carolina. This is the official page for Elijah Mountain Gem Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Mine, located in the heart of the Beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. View stones being cut and enjoy indoor winter gem mining. Join us at the Randall Glen gem mine in the wildflower meadow for gem mining around Asheville NC. At the Cherokee Ruby Mine, we DO NOT and WILL NOT offer gemstone ore that is “Salted”, “Enhanced”, “Concentrated”, or “Enriched” with low grade, semi-precious stones from elsewhere on earth. Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains The finest in colored gems from around the world, museum-quality mineral specimens, and unique gifts. & 374 Main St. Directions to Elijah Mountain Gem Mine. 2120 Brevard Road, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Located just 2 & 1/2 miles west of downtown Hendersonville on Highway 64 West. Zach was extremely helpful and Top traveler ranked gem mine in North Carolina, Elijah Mountain Gem Mine has been voted the #22 Thing to Do in the USA and the #4 Family-Friendly Fun activity in the world on TripAdvisor, 2021. The owners were friendly enough, and the gem mining experience was still fun, but we did not receive very many actual gems for the price. There are several different sizes of buckets to choose from. Check out the second location in Boone, at 2242 Highway 321 South, for indoor gem mining on the weekends year-round. He also has lights you can purchase. . Call to reserve your Gem Mining experience at 828. sign in; The largest emerald ever found in North Carolina was 1,438 carats. We offer Unsalted Native dirt dug right at our mine with nothing added for an authentic gem hunting experience!!! Plus we offer a variety of crafted buckets where you're Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains Specialties: Native Ruby and Sapphire Mine - also has bucket of Gemstones from around the World. Jun 20, 2022 · I just want to take a moment and clarify what it is I mean when I say public gem mines and the type of gem mines I’m including in this list. 2 735 mines were in production at the time the data was entered into USGS records. You pay a fee to go up to the site of the old mine, and if you don't have tools you can rent them yourself. Please note: Operation of the mine is weather-dependent, and the mine will close for inclement weather. Be ready to get dirty with “dig your own” mining or grab a pre-filled bucket of our 100% Unsalted Gem Ore. The sleuth water is recycled and dirty. GEMS. Main StHendersonville, NC 28739 Visit Welcome to our Main Street Hendersonville, NC Location We are home to the longest indoor sluice in North Carolina! We have plenty of room to spread you out. The thrill of uncovering a hidden gem among the Dec 31, 2024 · Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine: Fun unsalted gem mine. These are properties that are most often time privately owned where you can dig, pan, or search for gemstones in exchange for a fee. Oct 10, 2010 · Hey Y'all, I'm looking to hit up some mines while staying in Linville, NC at the end of this month (Oct 23-24 2010. The knowledgeable staff are on hand to assist with sifting techniques and to identify the gems found, enriching the experience with insights into the geology and history of the region. We are a host to more than 60 different types of naturally occurring gems and minerals, a treasure trove of gemstones can be found at our gem mine! Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. Rose Creek Gem Mine has been operating since 1952. Gem Mines near Franklin, NC. Gold Mining is a long-standing tradition in Franklin, NC, and panning for gold at Jake’s Gold Mine is a great way to teach your kids about geology and minerals, and it’s also a lot of fun! Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, you’ll greatly enjoy your time sifting for fantastic treasures using our water-powered flumes. It was near Hiddenite, NC Ray Mine in Burnsville, NC Emerald Hollow Mine in Hiddenite, NC Little Pine Garnet Mine near Marshall, NC One of my favorites is Diamond Hill in SC Are you a member of a club or group looking to gem mine? We are offering 10% off all buckets every Saturday! Groups of 9 or more are asked to please call ahead! 828-349-3774 Rose Creek Mine 240 Terrace Ridge Dr. The gem mining process starts by selecting a bucket of NC Gemstone rough. How did this small town get such a big reputation? “It’s just the luck of the shovel,” says Judy Johnson. Franklin, "the gem capital of the world", is located about 65 miles west of Asheville. Military and U. This is one of many attractions offered at Mystery Hill Here at the Diamond Hill Mine you will have a rare opportunity to collect your own crystals. Walk-ins are welcome, but you may experience a wait time before you can start gem mining – as gem mining in the summer is very popular! Apr 1, 2025 · The special thing that sets Emerald Village apart from all the other “gem mines” is that we do it in REAL mines that have produced a variety of gems and minerals. The Gem Mining Process. You must obtain a Recreational Mining Permit before you can begin collecting. Hubby and I headed to Emerald Gem Mine in Hiddenite, NC. Native Ruby & Sapphire Mine - as seen on TV - Whether you are a Rockhound or a novice, Sheffield Gem Mine has fun for everyone. ) is naturally occuring and wasn't brought in from some other locale. 1 North Carolina has 184 prospect mines. $5. Posted by u/SpoonPoetic - 3 votes and 9 comments May 12, 2025 · Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine: Only real unsalted gem mine in Franklin area - See 278 traveler reviews, 168 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. Jan 2, 2025 · Primitive Outback Kayaking and Gem Mining – 155 Robin Lynn Lane, Otto, NC 28763; North Carolina Gem Mining Laws And Regulations. Franklin, North Carolina is renowned as the “Gem Capital of the World” for good reason. Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. The DNR has established regulations and safety procedures for gemstone mining that must be Sheffield Gem Mine is a historic native Ruby/Sapphire mine in Franklin, North Carolina that offers a thrilling gem mining experience for everyone. Luckily one of the few original mines still in operation. Learn tips for a successful gem hunting adventure. Established in 2000. We are located in the mountain community of Boone, which is in the beautiful High Country of North Carolina. 5,742 likes · 87 talking about this · 1,847 were here. It is called a “placer” gem mine because of its mineral-bearing deposits of ancient sand, soil, and gravel left by rivers. At the mine shaft, dig a bucket of dirt rich in gems. Gem Mine is on left. ” When you visit North Carolina’s High Country, you’ll find plenty of places to mine for precious gems. We spent several hours at the Cherokee Mine and had a great time! As others have mentioned, you 'dig your own' and shovels and buckets are provided. It is the only 100% unsalted gem mine in the Cowee Valley of the Smoky Mountains. We are the ONLY 100% unsalted mine in Macon County. Known as the only emerald mine in the United States open to the public, this extraordinary destination offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to dig up your TEMPORARILY CLOSED 397 Main St. Take it to the flume by the creek and pour some of the dirt into a gem screen. org Jul 30, 2018 · Franklin, North Carolina is nicknamed the “Gem Capital of the World. This was a fun day. GIA Certified Graduate Gemologist on staff, appraisal service available. Active U. 4416 NC Hwy 105, Boone Winter hours may vary. She’s been working at Mason’s Gem Mine for 11 years. Florida/North Carolina. Please also note: ---Admissions for Dig-Your-Own Buckets cease at 1:00 PM. Franklin, NC 28734. It’s been operating since 1998 and offers a unique experience for all ages. The best places to rockhound in North Carolina are the gemstone mines in the central and western parts of the state, like the town of Operating since 1952, Rose Creek Mine is a true state licensed gem mine in Macon County, North Carolina. We dug for gems, bought a bucket of dirt that turned out to be a good idea and went to the creek to hunt. Georgia Gem Mining Laws And Regulations. Your inner prospector will come alive as you mine for gems and gold as the settlers of the Blue Ridge Mountains did and continue to […] Rose Creek Mine is one of the most spectacular Gem Mines located in the state of North Carolina. If you are looking for an identification for your rocks please visit /r/whatsthisrock instead. It's easy fun for the whole family. You can purchase buckets of ore that contain semi-precious stones, then use sluice boxes to search for their gems. ) Apr 17, 2025 · Why Boone North Carolinas gems shine and where to go mine them when your visiting! Jan 2, 2025 · Outpost Gold & Gem Mining Co – 7901 S Main St, Helen, GA 30545. Apr 4, 2012 · Mason's is one of very few natural (read: unsalted) gem mines left in NC. ---Admissions for Pre-Filled Buckets cease at 2:00 PM. May 17, 2009 · Consequently, gem mining opportunities for tourists are everywhere. The mountains of western North Carolina are famous for turning up emeralds, garnets, sapphires, and more. Franklin, United States 8283492941 old cardinal gem mine 10-5 m-f &sun closed sat old cardinal gem mine 10-5 m-f &sun closed sat old cardinal gem mine 10-5 m-f &sun closed sat 828-524-7306. Springfield – The entire area surrounding the town of Springfield offers a chance to find gem-quality quartz crystals. Aksa Mining Company – 8346 Aska Rd, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. ” Unsalted Mines “Unsalted” mines and in Come Gem Mining in Franklin, NC - Find Star Rubies and Sapphires in Our Native Mine AND/OR enjoy our Custom Crafted Rainbow buckets filled with Crystal Treasures!!! Open Rain or Shine 7 days a week from March 22nd - October 31st 2025 Feb 7, 2021 · The Cherokee Mine offers some of the fines, unsalted alluvial gem mining in the US. We offer both an “unsalted” digging experience and a variety of excellent Skip to main content Dec 1, 2024 · Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine: Only real unsalted gem mine in Franklin area - See 278 traveler reviews, 168 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. If you live in North Carolina or planning on travelling there, this is one of the finest places you can visit for gemstone flume mining. Now under the ownership of the Klatt family it's continuing to stay with the Mason's winning formula of customer service! Unlimited buckets! 100% Native (unsalted) dirt from our own private on-site mine; Adults: $40. Gem ore from the world's finest mines awaits at Foggy Mountain Gem Mine in Boone. Rose Creek Mine was established in 1952 and has been one of the most frequented tourist attractions in Macon County ever since. See full list on rockchasing. We are nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Brushy Mountains located in Hiddenite North Carolina. We found a few things, but nothing like what we have found at the family run gem mines towards Franklin North Carolina. S. Mine for real gems in the region known for underground treasure. From Asheville- Take I-26 East to Exit 49 B, go 5 miles on Hwy 64 West. Elijah Mountain Gem Mine (Hendersonville, NC) Elijah Mountain Gem Mine is located in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The finest in colored gems from around the world, museum-quality mineral specimens, and unique gifts. Enjoy mining for treasure with the whole family in the private indoor sluices at Prospector Hill Gem Mining. 25th Mar 2007 12:45 UTC Justin Zzyzx Expert. Visit us on Facebook at North Carolina is, without question, one of the premier rockhounding destinations in the entire world. Mason Mine also is an unsalted mine- but I have never been. There are many other gem mines in the area, however Cherokee is one of the few that offers unsalted buckets (aka they don't add gems to their dirt for you to "find"). (828) 765-6130. About Us. A public subreddit for the discussion of rock hunting and rock collecting. May 7, 2019 · Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Macon County's ONLY 100% Unsalted Gem Mine, located in the heart of the beautiful Cowee Valley of North Carolina's Smoky Mountains. Whether you're a seasoned rockhound or just curious about the area's rich mining heritage, these spots will captivate your imagination. Hello fine people of MinDat. We also include a “how to gem mine” lesson and provide all the tools and equipment you will need during your visit. When gems have been placed in the soil and miners are guaranteed a find are, those are “salted. NOTE: Cherokee Mine is OPEN Each bucket of our gem stone mix contains genuine rough gems. Apr 1, 2025 · The Crabtree Emerald Mine is owned by Mineral City Mining Company, and leased to the MAGMA rock club (Mountain Area Gem & Mineral Association). com Operating since 1952, Rose Creek Mine is a true state licensed gem mine in Macon County, North Carolina. Elijah Mountain Gem Mine has something for the whole family! Check out their Indoor and outdoor covered flumes (perfect for gem mining in the rain), exotic bird sanctuary, goat barn, adventure activities/kids obstacle course, gift shop, and Basecamp, which offers the Guidon Brewing Outpost -- a Taproom from Guidon Brewing Co -- and "Post 64" The Morefield Gem Mine is an exciting place for the whole family. We guarantee a gem find every time. Native Star Ruby and Sapphire Gem Mine 60The Crystal Collector visits Franklin, North Carolina to check out one of the only unsalted legit ruby and sapphire mines in the country! You will see the Dec 17, 2024 · If you’re a gemstone enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or just someone itching to try something new and fascinating, look no further than the Emerald Hollow Mine in Hiddenite, North Carolina. Once the site of an early gold rush, North Carolina quickly become even more famous for the incredibly abundant and diverse gems Elijah Mountain Gem Mine, Hendersonville, North Carolina. 100% native dirt (unsalted – nothing added) from our private mine site located atop Mason Mountain is brought down to the water flume for miners to sift through. The Sheffield Mine was best mine out of the 6 we went to. North Carolina also was the site of the first documented gold discovery in the United States. The mine is home to fine-grade and very rare crystals. A gem of a mine May 9, 2014 · Gem Mining in Franklin, North Carolina. vlv twhlkv xcaotk damyer tamr xqmo tnxff maubbg xnqfp yqh