small business spotlight
Diana Urieta of Raleigh, left, and her daughter Lizzie, 5, sift through sand and dirt, searching for treasures. Chrystal Holder, right, of Garner, admires what her daughter Zariah, 6, has found.
Blue Diamond Gemstone Panning GENERATIONS OF CHILDREN have discovered buried treasure at Blue Diamond Gemstone Panning in Cary, and the business continues to attract pretend pirates and wannabe archaeologists. Founded more than 30 years ago by the current owner’s grandfather, the business was originally called Panner’s Creek. The name might be differ-
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ent, but the vision of the business hasn’t changed in all that time. Kyle and Melissa Hathcock took over the operation four years ago, and it remains an educational, fun and safe way to explore the earth and the treasures it holds. Currently open only on Saturday and Sundays, the business is a popular spot for birthday parties. But Melissa Hathcock says it’s not just kids who come out looking for fossils, gems and gold nuggets.
EDITED BY AMBER KEISTER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN
“I’d say the average age for kids parties here would be 5 to7,” she said, “but honestly we almost get more young adults and teens out here for panning.” The business has built a reputation for customer service and for teaching curious youngsters about geology. Former owner Phil Hathcock, owner of Natural Stone Sculptures and father of Kyle Hathcock, shows up at Blue Diamond most weekends, eager to pass on his knowledge of fossils, gemstones, and ancient stone artifacts.
