Jacobs Ruby Mine
269 DeForest Lane, Franklin, NC 28734
Cowee Valley is one of only two place in the world where sandy gravel will yield blood red rubies; the other is the
Mogok Valley in Burma. Open May through October, Monday through Saturday, from 9 am until 5 pm. Call for rates. s 828-524-7022.
Gold City Gem Mine
9410 Sylva Road, Franklin, NC 28734
Gold City is more a miniature theme park than it is a mine. "There's something here for the whole family." There's a chairlift rising more than 5,000 feet to an observation platform high on the mountain; a gem store where, if digging for gems is not for you, you can buy that little something special; a gift shop where you can buy hand-crafted goods, such as quilts and the like; and there a place where you buy lunch, or a snack. Call to get current information. s 800-713-7767.
The Old Cardinal Gem Mine
71 Rockhaven Drive Franklin, NC 28734
Hey, they even have "dirt to go." A great place for beginners to try their hand at gem mining. The Old Cardinal offers group rates, expert help, a picnic area, snack and cold drinks, and all the equipment you need to strike it rich. What can you find? Rhodolite, rubies, sapphires, and moonstones. Call for current rates. s 828-369-7534 and ask for Jim or Edna.
Mason Mountain Rhodolite & Ruby Mine
5315 Bryson City Road, Franklin, NC 28734
Owners Brown and Martha Johnson have been in the business more years than they can remember, and they are, so they say, ready and willing to help you get started. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children under 12. Mining cost is extra: you pay by the bucket or bag. A bucket full of dirt, including the equipment needed to search it, costs $1 or $2, depending upon the size of the bucket. A "special bag" full of dirt costs $10, and a "super bucket" costs $25. Look for rhodolites, kyanite, garnets, moonstones, rubies, sapphires, crystal quartz and smoky quartz. The mine is open seven days a week, but call first to make sure. s 828-524-4570.
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