Gem Mining

A good way for families to spend time together...

The High Country is one of the most geologically diverse areas in the world, especially for finding gemstones.

Rubies, emeralds, topaz and quartz are all stones that can be found by visiting any gem mine in the High Country. In an area that is overflowing with minerals and that started the Gold Rush, mines find success from both tourists and locals. Finding gems in actual mines is difficult work that requires a lot of patience. But by visiting one of the gem mines in the High Country, the hard part is already done. No tools are necessary, and even small children can find beautiful gems. Gem mining shaped much of the High Country’s history, and both children and adults can learn about that history while having fun. It can be a short activity that only takes about an hour, or diligent miners can spend the whole day meticulously going through their buckets. Most importantly, it’s a good way for families to spend time together and create memories.

Read About the Gem Mining Operations Here

DOC’S ROCKS GEM MINE AND FOSSIL MUSEUM

BLOWING ROCK. An educational gem mine run by geologists. Trained specialists will teach you about you gemstones. Our goal is to educate the general public on the historical geology of the Appalachian Mountains, how they were formed and what can be found here. We promise to give you the best educational experience that your money can buy. We strive to make memories that will last a lifetime. Wheelchair accessible. Optional gemstone cutting and jewelry available. Appalachian Fossil Museum located on site. Private party room. Doc’s Rocks Gem Mine is located at Tanger Outlets in Blowing Rock. ⃣ 828-295-2034.

docsrocks.net. See ad on page 34 FOGGY MOUNTAIN GEM MINE

BOONE. At Foggy Mountain Gem Mine, the friendly staff does all the hard work for you. Simply purchase a bucket filled with gemstone ore from local and non-local mines and sift the material in their covered flume area. More than 40 different minerals may be found at Foggy Mountain mine, and gemstone quality ore is guaranteed in every bucket. And jewelers are onsite to turn your finds into all kinds of jewery. The Gem Mine has been family owned and operated for generations And now with a second ocation at 2422 Hwy 321 South just outside of Boone. SEE ad for 10% OFF buckets. ⃣ 828-963-4367.

foggymountaingems.com.

A good way for families to spend time together

FOSCOE MINING COMPANY

FOSCOE. Located about 8 miles from Boone on N.C. 105, the Greater Foscoe Mining Company is open from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. daily. Sifting through rock and dirt, you’ll find precious and semiprecious gems, such as emeralds, sapphires, rubies, topaz, amethyst, aquamarine, citrine, green tourmaline and more. The Greater Foscoe Mining Company also offers gem cutting right on the premises. ⃣ 828-9635928. facetsofffoscoe.com. See ad on page 33

SUGAR CREEK GEM MINE

BANNER ELK. Do you want to experience the thrill of prospecting for your very own North Carolina authentic gemstones? Then join the fun at Sugar Creek Gem Mine, where we guarantee you will find precious and semi-precious gemstones in every bucket. With Sugar Creek Gem Mine you can expect the highest quality service, experienced gemologists on staff and first class mining equipment. Call to reserve your Gem Mining experience at 828.898. GEMS. 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! The covered gem mine is open year-round in Banner Elk. The expert staff at Sugar Creek Gem Mine will work with you to pick out the gemstones that are best suited for cutting. Sugar Creek has state of the art lapidary equipment and faceting supplies to ensure that every cut gemstone is flawless. ⃣ 828-898-GEMS.

SugarCreekGemMine.com See ad on page 3