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!
Google Maps/Adrienne Rojo
The gem mine has three ways in which to mine.
TripAdvisor/RamblingRoses
You can dig for gems, sluice, or pan in the creek.
Google Maps/Sherry Kay Gieseking
Pay for just one method, two, or all three. You have the power to pick and choose which route to go.
Whether you're an experienced rock hound or new to the game, you're sure to love Emerald Hollow.
Google Maps/Susan Perry
In addition to mining, the mine also has its own lapidary, where the stones you find can be polished and then used to create one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry right on the spot.

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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.
TripAdvisor/Kimique
Visitors can also purchase buckets that have been embellished with a wealth of gemstones. Buckets range from $5 to $1000 each.
TripAdvisor/JBVO
While you're hear, you might as well try your luck at creek panning. Who knows what you'll find panning!
TripAdvisor/Kimique
Spend a day in the foothills of the Brushy Mountains... mining for rare gem stones at Emerald Hollow Mine.
Google Maps/Derek Morris

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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Featured Addresses
Emerald Hollow Mine Dr, Hiddenite, NC 28636, USA