Buried Treasures

The Lucky Strike Gold & gemstone mine on Second Broad River, open year round. Buckets of ore start at $5.00, all day creek panning is $5.00. Polly Spout Road, south of Marion off US 221, Email them.

Heather Grove Mine Newest of area's gold and gem panning facilities. Sluicing, dredging, and high banking. Polly Spout Road, south of Marion off US 221.

Linville Mountain Gem Shop Professional stone cutters shape and set native gem stones into fine, hand made jewelry. Lapidary machines and lessons. Gold smithing and repair. Gem panning available on-site. Open year round. Located on NC 221 in North Cove, one mile south of Linville Caverns.

Thermal City Gold Mine Home of annual Miner's Meet. Prospecting equipment available for sale. Located on US 221, south of Marion on McDowell/Rutherford County line. Email Them

Emerald Village Outdoor gemstone mine and indoor heated flume. Mine tours, displays of authentic mining equipment, and heritage exhibits. On-site gem cutting, polishing, and jewelry making services. Indoor and outdoor picnic facilities. McKinney Mine Road, Little Switzerland. Open year round, weather permitting. Email

Gem Mountain Prospect for gems rain or shine under covered flumes. Have stones inspected and identified, cut and set by experienced gem cutters. Restaurant and picnic facilities, gift and souvenir shop. Free admission to the Sands of Time museum. Hwy. 226, Spruce Pine. Open daily, March - December.