Gem Mining

Gem mining is a fun adventure for the whole family. Gem mining has been an activity for years in our area. This area is referred to as the “Gem capitol of the world” for good reason.

Just minutes away from Settlers Mountain are some of the most productive mines in the country. Rockhounds and gem enthusiasts frequent this area in search for rubies, sapphires and other minerals. Mining for rubies and sapphires started in Macon County back in 1870.

   Most mines sell gem dirt in a bucket or bag (few allow digging) and you may have to pay an admission fee for the day. You are provided with a screen for washing and there is a flume - a trough of running water - with a bench along its length. The dirt goes in the screen, the screen goes in the water and the mud is washed away. Well, it's not quite that easy but it is completely safe and mine operators are on hand to help with technique and identification.   The"3 C's" of gem mining are color, clarity and crystals. Gemstones come in every color from white to black. Garnets are glassy red, pink or reddish brown. Rubies are silky red, sapphires are every other color, and both have a crystal formation with 6 sides. Moonstones are pearly white to gray and peach to chocolate brown with a flat box-like shape. Quartz comes in many forms, sometimes clear colors like Amethyst and Citrine, sometimes opaque colors with mica flecks like Aventurine and, of course, clear with sides - quartz crystals. These are just a handful of the many gemstones found at our local mines.   Tips †      What to wear: o       Hat and sun block o       Old clothes and shoes o       Rubber gloves to preserve manicured nails †      What to bring: o       Zip-loc bags or a plastic dish to take stones home o       Cushion or towel to sit on o       Picnic lunch o       Camera o       Change of shoes and clothes for when you leave (you will more than likely get muddy!)   Some mines are “salted or “enriched” with stones to make it seem like you are really finding something worthwhile and some mines offer only native North Carolina gemstones. You may find fewer gems in the native mines but the gems you find will tend to be of much more value. Some mines offer covered or even heated flumes for your comfort.   Let a Settlers Mountain associate help you in selecting the right mine for you. Who knows? You may get lucky and be the next one to find that big honker of a gem!