Unsalted gem mines in nc You may view the exhibits, visit the gift shop, or mine you own gem stones. Jan 2, 2025 · Primitive Outback Kayaking and Gem Mining – 155 Robin Lynn Lane, Otto, NC 28763; North Carolina Gem Mining Laws And Regulations. The gem mining process starts by selecting a bucket of NC Gemstone rough. 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. We found a few things, but nothing like what we have found at the family run gem mines towards Franklin North Carolina. GEMS. 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. North Carolina also was the site of the first documented gold discovery in the United States. (828) 765-6130. 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. The Sheffield Mine was best mine out of the 6 we went to. 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. Franklin, NC 28734 We are located in the mountain community of Boone, which is in the beautiful High Country of North Carolina. They also offer jewelry settings in 14-karat gold and sterling silver, finished jewelry, gifts, and mineral specimens. 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. 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. A gem of a mine May 9, 2014 · Gem Mining in Franklin, North Carolina. 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, the entire family can have a hand in discovering what will be one of their most memorable finds and prized possessions. This is a great place to bring the entire family, and the kids will love sifting through the dirt to find gems. 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. Operating since 1952, Rose Creek Mine is a true state licensed gem mine in Macon County, North Carolina. Explore top gem mining spots in North Carolina and uncover beautiful gems like emeralds, rubies, and more. Take it to the flume by the creek and pour some of the dirt into a gem screen. Franklin, North Carolina is renowned as the “Gem Capital of the World” for good reason. 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. With Sugar Creek Gem Mine you can expect the highest quality service, experienced gemologists on staff and first class mining equipment. 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. Spanish Conquistador Hernando de Sota ventured through the area in the 16th century, searching for gold and other treasures. ---Admissions for Pre-Filled Buckets cease at 2:00 PM. Luckily one of the few original mines still in operation. 4416 NC Hwy 105, Boone Winter hours may vary. . He gave a demo and he lets you use his lights which help identify gems. Most of the other NC mines offer "enriched" (salted) gem dirt and are basically tourist traps, perfect for the Myrtle Beach/Gatlinburg crowd. Franklin, "the gem capital of the world", is located about 65 miles west of Asheville. 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. How did this small town get such a big reputation? “It’s just the luck of the shovel,” says Judy Johnson. Georgia Gem Mining Laws And Regulations. Elijah Gem Mining Elijah Mountain 2120 Brevard Road Hendersonville, NC 828. This year, however, Rose Creek was closed for restocking during our trip so we decided to try Old Cardinal. But we now offer enriched buckets for those who lack the time or the ability to do the full mining experience. Join us at the Randall Glen gem mine in the wildflower meadow for gem mining around Asheville NC. 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. Whether you're a seasoned rockhound or just curious about the area's rich mining heritage, these spots will captivate your imagination. We dug for gems, bought a bucket of dirt that turned out to be a good idea and went to the creek to hunt. 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. Military and U. 00 per additional bucket of our 100% Unsalted Gem Ore. 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. Mine for real gems in the region known for underground treasure. 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. NOTE: Cherokee Mine is OPEN 2. Rockhounds love it here as we offer true Native dirt/rubies that are unsalted (nothing added). Still producing - some Rubies are over 100cts though most are anywhere from tiny chips to about 50cts. We offer the cleanes t mine around with a covered flume to search for your treasures rain or shine. He was knowledgeable and very nice. ” The small town hosts gem shows, rock shops and gem mining. The mine is known for its unsalted gem ore, meaning all gems found are naturally occurring. com. In Georgia, gemstone mining is regulated by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). We guarantee a gem find every time. Apr 4, 2025 · The Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine stands out as a prime location for sapphire hunting. 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. Visit us on Facebook at Apr 11, 2024 · Boone’s Top-Rated Attraction is Foggy Mountain Gem Mine. He also has lights you can purchase. Here's a map showing the gem mines in the Franklin area. Apr 4, 2012 · Mason's is one of very few natural (read: unsalted) gem mines left in NC. - See 278 traveler reviews, 168 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. We do not “salt” the piles. 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 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. info@gemmountain. 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 Mine is on left. 6,603 likes · 98 talking about this · 10,735 were here. Everyday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 Gem Mines. From Asheville- Take I-26 East to Exit 49 B, go 5 miles on Hwy 64 West. 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. 5,742 likes · 87 talking about this · 1,847 were here. This means that everything you find (rubies, sapphires, etc. 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. 2120 Brevard Rd, Hendersonville. 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. 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. North Carolina’s expansive history includes centuries of gem mining. 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. Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, the Nantahala Mines offer a treasure trove of hidden gems and fascinating history. 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. She’s been working at Mason’s Gem Mine for 11 years. The Cherokee Mine offers some of the fines, unsalted alluvial gem mining in the US. Definitely disappointed compared to our experiences that other gem mines. 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. There are several different sizes of buckets to choose from. 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. Please note: Operation of the mine is weather-dependent, and the mine will close for inclement weather. You'll Brevard's #1 Family Attraction! Gem Mining Downtown Brevard, North Carolina. 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. We have 6+ acres of dirt that is loaded with quartz crystals to surface collect or to dig through. You might have seen Sheffield Mine on the Travel ChanneL. 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. This is recognized as one of the most unique and interesting geological locations in North America. Please also note: ---Admissions for Dig-Your-Own Buckets cease at 1:00 PM. ) 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. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Enjoy mining for treasure with the whole family in the private indoor sluices at Prospector Hill Gem Mining. 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"). 898. Jul 5, 2023 · Macon County, North Carolina is home to numerous gem mines that are open to the public. GIA Certified Graduate Gemologist on staff, appraisal service available. We also include a “how to gem mine” lesson and provide all the tools and equipment you will need during your visit. 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. 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. The Elijah Mountain Gem Mine is one of the highest-rated spots for gem mining in NC. The thrill of uncovering a hidden gem among the Dec 31, 2024 · Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine: Fun unsalted gem mine. 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. 00 per person Children ages 6-12: $20. This was a fun day. 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. Emerald Village is the local representative. We offer both an “unsalted” digging experience and a variety of excellent May 30, 2021 · This is a real deal unsalted mine. 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. Feb 7, 2021 · The Cherokee Mine offers some of the fines, unsalted alluvial gem mining in the US. 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. Visit us on Facebook at North Carolina is, without question, one of the premier rockhounding destinations in the entire world. 70 45 Crabtree Mine in Little Switzerland, NC Sharpes Emerald Prospect has closed for good. Tiffany’s was the first to mine this location. 1 North Carolina has 184 prospect mines. ” 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. Wash away the dirt while you look out at our Randall Glen mountain, then sort through the gravel that's left. Directions to Elijah Mountain Gem Mine. Jan 2, 2025 · Pigeon Forge Gem Mine is a family-owned gemstone mining attraction in Pigeon Forge. 2 735 mines were in production at the time the data was entered into USGS records. 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. 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. Greater Foscoe Mining Company, located on highway 105, Gem Mining Boone NC, indoor and outdoor flume NC Gem mining, buckets can also be shipped. You must obtain a Recreational Mining Permit before you can begin collecting. While… Read More »Main Street Hendersonville Location Nov 4, 2019 · What a fun day. This Please call 423-323-5680 for scheduling events, parties, or other fun filled activities at Cooper's Gem Mine. In short, what I’m referring to are pay-to-dig sites. 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. 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. View stones being cut and enjoy indoor winter gem mining. 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. Check out the second location in Boone, at 2242 Highway 321 South, for indoor gem mining on the weekends year-round. 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). sign in; The largest emerald ever found in North Carolina was 1,438 carats. 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. 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. It’s been operating since 1998 and offers a unique experience for all ages. 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. It was found at Hiddenite near Statesville, SC. Florida/North Carolina. org Jul 30, 2018 · Franklin, North Carolina is nicknamed the “Gem Capital of the World. Hubby and I headed to Emerald Gem Mine in Hiddenite, NC. 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. Thoroughly enjoyed! ♦️💎 Mar 25, 2007 · Gems and GemologyOpen discussion area. 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. 00 Admission Discount (Military ID Card is Required Upon Admission) One discount per customer. NOTE: Cherokee Mine is OPEN Each bucket of our gem stone mix contains genuine rough gems. Franklin, NC 28734. Elijah Mountain Gem Mine (Hendersonville, NC) Elijah Mountain Gem Mine is located in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The mine provides all the necessary equipment and guidance for a successful gem mining adventure, making it accessible to beginners and seasoned prospectors alike. 6560 The gem mine on Elijah Mountain is Western North Carolina’s go-to for a day of mining and family fun. Nov 29, 2017 · Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine: Unsalted mine - See 278 traveler reviews, 168 candid photos, and great deals for Franklin, NC, at Tripadvisor. This is an Authentic Ruby/Sapphire Mine that has been operating since the 1950’s. & 374 Main St. S. Definitely a very commercialized place. The mine is home to fine-grade and very rare crystals. There are many gem mines to choose from - especially the Cowee Valley. Gem Mines near Franklin, NC. Be ready to get dirty with “dig your own” mining or grab a pre-filled bucket of our 100% Unsalted Gem Ore. 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. 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. A public subreddit for the discussion of rock hunting and rock collecting. 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. WORLD-CLASS GEM MINING FOR 60 YEARS! Our native dirt pile is where your gem mining experience begins. The Morefield offers something for both the amateur or advanced rock hunter alike. Fakes & Frauds Salted Mines of North Carolina. All of our gemstone ore is 100% from our on-site excavation. The finest in colored gems from around the world, museum-quality mineral specimens, and unique gifts. 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. Rose Creek Mine was established in 1952 and has been one of the most frequented tourist attractions in Macon County ever since. Jan 12, 2025 · Secrets of North Carolina's Nantahala Mines. 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. Due to the large equipment used while digging veins, many pieces are lost or missed. Active U. Offering both unsalted and enhanced options as well as mining tours, Rose Creek Mine truly has something for everyone. In fact, western North Carolina is known as “the gem capital of the world. 5cm in diameter. 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. Surrounded by nature in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, North Carolina is, without question, one of the premier rockhounding destinations in the entire world. Gem mining has been a favorite activity for visitors to the Franklin area for years. Rose Creek Gem Mine has been operating since 1952. Hello fine people of MinDat. When gems have been placed in the soil and miners are guaranteed a find are, those are “salted. Sugar Creek Gem Mine makes prospecting for North Carolina gemstones fun and enjoyable for guests of all ages and experience levels. Military Veterans: $5. Those interested in trying their hand at gem mining can choose between “salted” and “unsalted” mines. We made the trip from AL to give it a go.   Foggy Mountain Gem Mine's indoor mine is open Sheffield Gem Mine, Franklin, North Carolina. We visit Rose Creek Mine each year for gem mining. Few mines offer ore of high enough quality to catch the interest of locals if they didn’t salt it. 25th Mar 2007 12:45 UTC Justin Zzyzx Expert. We went searching for rubies and sapphires in the great smoky mo Pisgah Forest Gem Mine and Gifts 507 N. 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. It is a t We had an adventure at the Rose Creek Mine and found some great gems and rocks. 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. Phone: (828)-625-5524 or (828) 625-9885 [email protected] Found a few small gems. 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. Chimney Rock, NC 28720. 692. ) is naturally occuring and wasn't brought in from some other locale. 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. Native Ruby & Sapphire Mine - as seen on TV - Whether you are a Rockhound or a novice, Sheffield Gem Mine has fun for everyone. 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. Customers love finding amazonite, topaz and garnets especially Specialties: Foggy Mountain Gem Mine has been family owned and operated for generations. It is the only 100% unsalted gem mine in the Cowee Valley of the Smoky Mountains. The sleuth water is recycled and dirty. Mason Mine also is an unsalted mine- but I have never been. 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. Buckets are already dug onsite filled for you. Brevard's #1 Family Attraction! Gem Mining Downtown Brevard, North Carolina. Shefield Mine was purchased by us in 2000, but it has been open to the public for about 50 years before that. You can purchase buckets of ore that contain semi-precious stones, then use sluice boxes to search for their gems. The rocks, minerals, and gemstones produced here are virtually unrivaled by anywhere else in the United States. We are located in the mountain community of Boone, which is in the beautiful High Country of North Carolina. We are the ONLY 100% unsalted mine in Macon County. The Gem Mining Process. 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. The pricing of the buckets are very affordable and are filled with loads of gems. 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. At the mine shaft, dig a bucket of dirt rich in gems. Come spend a great day of mining with us out of the heat. These are properties that are most often time privately owned where you can dig, pan, or search for gemstones in exchange for a fee. About Us. 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. 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. You are out in the mud (if it's raining) or hot sun and there is no guarantee that you will find something. Call to reserve your Gem Mining experience at 828. Aksa Mining Company – 8346 Aska Rd, Blue Ridge, GA 30513. Check out their Elijah Mountain Gem Mine, Hendersonville, North Carolina. 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. Gem ore from the world's finest mines awaits at Foggy Mountain Gem Mine in Boone. Learn tips for a successful gem hunting adventure. 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. Discover the best locations for gem mining in North Carolina, including Gem Mountain, Crabtree Emerald Mine, and Rose Creek Mine. com Operating since 1952, Rose Creek Mine is a true state licensed gem mine in Macon County, North Carolina. 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. ” When you visit North Carolina’s High Country, you’ll find plenty of places to mine for precious gems. Zach was there the day I went. Visitors often discover sapphires in the mine’s rich alluvial deposits, which contain minerals washed down from the surrounding mountains over millions of years. 5 miles off I-26 at Exit 49 B. See full list on rockchasing. May 17, 2009 · Consequently, gem mining opportunities for tourists are everywhere. Discounts cannot be combined, conjoined, transferred, conferred, or multiplied. 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. We have been operating with the same owners for almost 25 years and Gold City is actually shown on most road maps. For more than 80 years the mine has produced many varieties of mineral specimens and is open to the public. 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. If you are looking for an identification for your rocks please visit /r/whatsthisrock instead. Springfield – The entire area surrounding the town of Springfield offers a chance to find gem-quality quartz crystals. 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. 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. 2120 Brevard Road, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Located just 2 & 1/2 miles west of downtown Hendersonville on Highway 64 West. $5. Our experienced staff will explain the various sizes of buckets available and show you how to search for gems using sifters and water flumes. It's easy fun for the whole family. At a few of the spots, customers are given the opportunity to pan in creek beds or dig at the actual mines. Established in 2000. Book one of our Asheville area mountain cabins today. 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. Updated By Chris Murphy. We offer both an “unsalted” digging experience and a variety of excellent “enhanced” gem mining options. We are nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Brushy Mountains located in Hiddenite North Carolina. In North Carolina, recreational gem hunting is regulated by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). 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 is called a “placer” gem mine because of its mineral-bearing deposits of ancient sand, soil, and gravel left by rivers. Its “unsalted”, meaning everything you will find came from this actual mine. whog mgwh fcupndl dmwsog wbvqz zsbasmz rrlj lsfazm var tcob