Abstract:
"In and around Franklin and other parts of western North Carolina, gem mines draw tourists and serious rock hounds alike for the chance of spotting a deep purple sapphire or rich red ruby sparkling in sifting trays full of mud." North Carolina has an unusual distinctions as being home to four major gemstones: rubies, emeralds, diamonds and sapphires. In 2003, the North American Emerald Mine in Hiddenite produced a 1,869-carat emerald. Featured in this article is Mason's Sapphire Mine.