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Our specimens are mined using a method known as "placer mining" in most respects. We primarily mine stream placer and bench deposits for minerals, gemstones, fossils, petrified woods and just about anything that strikes our interest! When a mineral deposit is located in a stream, it can often be traced to its source by digging a series of test holes. This can lead to finding notable mineral occurences that can be extracted in various ways. Depending on the occurence, several different mining methods can be used. Open-pit mining is a surface mining method of digging a pit  to extract minerals. Another method is underground hard rock mining. This method follows veins of mineral deposits within hard rock to extract ores and gemstones. 

 

We have made numerous gemstone discoveries in the North Carolina,Tennessee & Virginia areas. Our specimens are some of the finest quality gemstones you can find in the Appalachians. 

Being a two-man mining operation gives us a chance to hand-pick our gems. We want to share the wonderful world of Appalachian gemstones with everyone. The Appalachian Mountains offer some of the largest varieties of minerals and gemstones in the world. We're on the hunt for the best they have to offer! 

 

Specializing in untreated Emeralds, Rubies & Sapphires

 

Our personal areas of study are:

 

Placer Geology

Mineralogy

Surface-Water Hydrology

Sedimentology

Gemology

 

Some of our collection of specimens include:

 

Corundum

 

(Ruby & Sapphire)

 

 

Rutilated Corundum

 

(Star Ruby & Star Sapphire)

 

 

Beryl

 

(Emerald, Aquamarine, Heliodor, Goshenite)

 

Opals

 

Petrified Wood

 

Spodumene

 

Tourmaline

 

Peridot

 

Garnet

 

Topaz

 

Imperial Topaz

 

Rutile

 

Rutilated Quartz

 

Blue Quartz

 

Citrine

 

Amethyst

 

Smoky Quartz

 

Feldspars

 

Agate

 

Carnelian

 

Chalcedony

 

Unakite

 

Calcite

 

Muscovite

 

...and many more!

 

 

 

 

 

"The soil of our heart will render countless tillings..."

                                                         - W.J. Osborne

Focusing on mining rights, organizations & educating the people.

3-1-2015

We are joining forces with numerous organizations that support the independent miners, their communities and rights. Help make a difference with us by supporting and sharing organizations like A.M.R.A. (American Mining Rights Association), P.L.P. (Public Lands for the People), W.M.A. (Western Mining Alliance) and educational organizations like My Land Matters (www.MyLandMatters.org).

Mining & Technology

1-18-2015

We are utilizing advanced geological research tools & mapping to prospect for minerals. By combining old research documents with modern technology; we have taken a whole new direction in mining!

Looking to connect!

12-21-2014


We are looking to connect with lapidary artists, custom jewelry designers, silver & goldsmiths, collectors and other prospectors. Please use our contact page to send us a message!

Featuring Ethiopian "Welo" Opal!

11-11-2014

Although we specialize in Appalachian minerals & gemstones; we have a passion for Opal from around the world. We are featuring opals from Ethiopia and Mexico & we are working on getting rough from Australia & Brazil.

Life in a reverie:

10-18-2014

Some consider prospecting to be a prodigal idea or fanciful reverie falling somewhere in line with "The Goonies" seeking hidden treasures. In reality, we spend numerous hours studying, planning & prospecting. Our passion has become a reality through determination.

Prospecting:

9-28-2014

We have several prospecting trips planned for October including some new areas in Virginia. We are hoping to spot some Aquamarine! Look for new finds and new cut gemstones all through the month of October!

We specialize in minerals and gemstones from the Appalachian Mountains:

9-1-2014

There is nothing more beautiful than a genuine gemstone! Our specimens are untreated, natural gems mined directly from the Appalachian Mountains. Find out more by subscribing to our newsletter!

We are placer gemstone & gold prospectors:

8-6-2014

Finding gold and gemstones as well as precious minerals; is an exciting hobby & a lot of work!

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