Record #:

43935

Author(s):

Edwards, Gavin

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.

Source:

Our State (NoCar F 251 S77), Vol. 91 Issue 6, November 2023, p204-210, il

Subject(s):

Gemstones; Mines and mining; Sapphires--Macon County; Franklin--Description and travel; Emerald miners--Hiddenite