Posted in North Carolina Attractions April 14, 2021 by Robin Jarvis

Dig For Rare Gems At Emerald Hollow In North Carolina

Rock hounding just doesn’t get any better than it is at this one, little-known gem mine in North Carolina. That’s because, at Emerald Hollow Mine in Hiddenite, digging for gems means you could turn up any of about 60 different gems and minerals that are native to the dirt in which you’re digging. And many of the gems found here are rare, like emerald, sapphire, aquamarine, topaz, garnet, citrine, amethyst, tourmaline, and rutile. In fact, Emerald Hollow Mine bills itself as the only emerald mine in the world that’s open to the public.

So throw on some old clothes and get started!

The gem mine has three ways in which to mine.

You can dig for gems, sluice, or pan in the creek.

Whether you're an experienced rock hound or new to the game, you're sure to love Emerald Hollow.

Over at the sluices, visitors can purchase buckets that are filled with native dirt that hasn't been added to, in terms of adding gemstones.

Visitors can also purchase buckets that have been embellished with a wealth of gemstones. Buckets range from $5 to $1000 each.

While you're hear, you might as well try your luck at creek panning. Who knows what you'll find panning!

Spend a day in the foothills of the Brushy Mountains... mining for rare gem stones at Emerald Hollow Mine.

Emerald Hollow Mine is open rain or shine seven days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. If planning to arrive after 4 p.m., please call the mine at (828)632-3394 to confirm. Learn more about the process of mining and about Emerald Hollow Mine from the mine’s official website right here.

Ever been gem mining? What’d you find? Join the discussion in the comments!

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Address: Emerald Hollow Mine Dr, Hiddenite, NC 28636, USA