Best Gem Mining Spots in Spruce Pine, NC

September 22nd, 2023 by

If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity for the whole family, you should consider gem mining in Spruce Pine, NC. Spruce Pine is known as the “Gem Capital of the World” because of its rich deposits of minerals and gems. You can find a variety of gemstones, such as emeralds, sapphires, rubies, aquamarines, garnets, and more. You can also learn about the history and geology of the area and see how gem mining is done. Here are some of the best places for gem mining in Spruce Pine, NC, for you to visit.

Emerald Village

Emerald Village is one of the most popular and comprehensive gem mining attractions in Spruce Pine, NC. You can choose from several options to experience gem mining, such as:

  • The Gemstone Mine: You can purchase a bucket of ore and sift through it at the flume line. You can keep all the gems you find and identify them with the help of a chart.
  • The Crabtree Emerald Mine: You can dig for your own emeralds at the site of the world’s largest emerald crystal. You can use your own tools or rent them from the shop. You can keep all the emeralds and other minerals you find.
  • The Black Light Mine Tour: You can take a guided tour of the Bon Ami Mine and see the amazing fluorescent minerals that glow under black light. You can also see old mining equipment and displays.

Emerald Village is located at 331 McKinney Mine Rd, Spruce Pine, NC 287771. They are open from April 1st to October 31st, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends. The prices vary depending on the activity and the bucket size.

Gem Mountain

Gem Mountain is another great place for gem mining in Spruce Pine, NC. You can also choose from different options to enjoy gem mining, such as:

  • The Flume Line: You can buy a bucket of ore and wash it at the flume line. You can keep all the gems you find and have them identified by the staff.
  • The Mine Trip: You can take a four-hour trip to one of the local mines and dig for your own gems. You can use your own tools or borrow them from the shop. You can keep all the gems you find and have them cut and set into jewelry at the shop.
  • Gem Cutting: You can have your gems cut and polished by professional gem cutters at the shop. You can also design your own jewelry and have it made by skilled jewelers.

Gem Mountain is located at 13780 Highway 226 S, Spruce Pine, NC 287772. They are open from March 1st to December 31st, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.. The prices vary depending on the activity and the bucket size.

Rio Doce Gem Mine

Rio Doce Gem Mine is a friendly and cozy place that offers gem mining in Spruce Pine, NC. You can buy a bucket of ore and sift through it at the flume line. You can find a variety of gems, such as quartz, amethyst, citrine, topaz, tourmaline, and more. You can keep all the gems you find and have them appraised by the staff. You can also browse through their gift shop and see their collection of jewelry and crystals.

Rio Doce Gem Mine is located at 12364 US-226 S, Spruce Pine, NC 28777. They are open from Monday to Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.. The prices range from $15 to $100 depending on the bucket size.

Little Switzerland Gem Shop

Little Switzerland Gem Shop is a charming and quaint place that offers gem mining in Spruce Pine, NC. You can buy a bucket of ore and wash it at the flume line. You can find gems such as sapphires, garnets, amethysts, peridots, and more. You can keep all the gems you find and have them identified by the staff. You can also shop for jewelry, gifts, books, and souvenirs at their store.

Little Switzerland Gem Shop is located at 86 High Ridge Rd., Little Switzerland, NC 28749. They are open from April to November, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends. The prices range from $15 to $75, depending on the bucket size.

Grassy Creek Mineral & Gem Show

Grassy Creek Mineral & Gem Show is a unique and exciting event that offers gem mining in Spruce Pine, NC. You can visit the show and see hundreds of vendors selling minerals, gems, jewelry, fossils, and more. You can also buy a bucket of ore and sift through it at the flume line. You can find gems like emeralds, rubies, sapphires, quartz, and more. You can keep all the gems you find and have them evaluated by the experts.

Grassy Creek Mineral & Gem Show is located at 136 Majestic View, Spruce Pine, NC 28777. They are open from July 29th to August 6th, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.. Admission is free, and the prices for the buckets are $10, $20, and $40.

These are some of the best places for gem mining in Spruce Pine, NC, you should check out. You’ll have a fun and educational experience that you and your family will remember for a long time. You’ll also get to keep some beautiful and valuable gems you can treasure or turn into jewelry.

If you’re looking for a great car dealership in Spruce Pine, NC, you should visit Spruce Pine Chevrolet. We have a wide selection of new and used cars, trucks, and SUVs that will fit your needs and budget. We also have a friendly and professional staff to help you with financing, service, and parts. Spruce Pine Chevrolet is your one-stop shop for all your automotive needs. Visit us today at 36 Chevrolet Blvd., Spruce Pine, NC 28777 or call us at (828) 765-1200.

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