Right down the road, Franklin, NC holds the title of the Gem Mining Capital of the World. Sapphire and ruby mining in Franklin became a commercial venture in approximately 1870, and now, visitors can come and play in the dirt to find beautiful gems to take home and remember your trip by, or you can even have a beautiful piece of jewelry created from the treasure you mine. Gem mining is a wonderful way to get outside and experience the mountains by doing something deeply rooted in the history and culture.
Located in the North Carolina Mountains Near Cashiers
Sheffield Mine
385 Sheffield Farms Rd, Franklin, NC
828-369-8383
Rose Creek Mine
115 Terrace Ridge Dr, Franklin, NC
828-349-3774 www.rosecreekmine.com
Mason Mountain Mine
5315 Bryson City Rd, Franklin, NC
828-524-4570 www.masonmtnmine.org
Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine
6771 Sylva Rd, Franklin, NC
828-369-5271
Gold City Gem Mine
Hwy 441 between Franklin & Dillsboro
800-713-7767 www.goldcityamusement.com
Jackson Hole Trading Post & Gem Mine
Hwy 64 between Highlands & Franklin
828-524-5850