Gem Prospecting

“In the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in western North Carolina, modern-day “prospectors” try their luck at the many ruby and sapphire mines of Macon County. The town of Franklin is home to mines, shops and museums and according to the Franklin Chamber of Commerce, “...the area offers a unique change of pace, a never-ending supply of things to do.“

‘Mining for ruby and sapphire began in Macon County in 1870. Called corundum, the minerals were mined commercially for abrasives, and were hauled to the railroad by horse and wagon and shipped out of Macon County in large quantities. Tiffany’s showed an interest in the area in the 1890’s but two other companies, American Prospecting & Mining Co. and US Ruby Mining Co., began work hoping to find the source of the rubies found in the corundum mines. Both companies ended the search in the early part of the 20th century leaving the area open to rockhounds and gem enthusiasts. The source hasn’t been found - yet.”

The process involves washing the dirt off the stones at a flume line (a shallow trough with running water). The mines mostly offer “enriched” dirt which contains soil with uncut gems added. Enriched dirt is a sure thing, and you’ll always find a variety of stones. Native dirt, on the other hand, is available at only a few mines, and is more of a chance encounter. You may find a nice gemstone, or you might not. While you probably won’t strike it rich at the flume line, some pretty impressive rubies and sapphires have been discovered there over the years.

Either way, your gem mining adventure will likely provide lasting memories, and perhaps a few nice gemstones as well, and whatever route you take to get there, you’ll see some of the most beautiful scenery in the East.

When you’re RVing in the area, you’ll find a great place to stay in at Black Forest Family Camping Resort in Cedar Mountain, North Carolina. One of our Free Camping Program participants, the campground is located 12 miles south of Brevard, NC, and is featured in an article on the following page. For more information about our Free Camping Program which includes a Three-Park membership to Thousand Trails, please go to Page 8 or contact us at (800) 880-0335.

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