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Franklin - Ruby Mines of the Cowee Valley

Macon County is known for the ruby mines of the Cowee Valley. Mining history in this area deates back to the last half of the 19th Century. Today visitors can try their luck at gem mining near Franklin. Sift through dirt looking for gems using and leave with whatever you find. Most facilities charge a day fee and provide guests with the necessary equipment required, along with instructions on how to search and what to look for.

Must-see attractions nearby:

Related Attractions

Cherokee Rubies and Sapphires Mine
Feeling lucky? If so, be sure to visit the Cherokee Rubies and Sapphires Mine when in Franklin and get your training on how to become a rock hound. It was at this mine that the 686 carat Cherokee Princess and the 1070 carat Cherokee Chief rubies were found. Garnets are the other precious stones found at the Cherokee Rubies and Sapphires Mine.
Hours
April 1 to October 31
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
Open9:009:009:009:009:009:0012:00
Close16:0016:0016:0016:0016:0016:0017:00
Cost
Adult$ 15.00
Child 11 & under$ 10.00
Child 5 & underFREE
All values are in United States Dollars
Old Cardinal Gem Mine
The Old Cardinal Gem Mine is one of the old mines in Franklin where today visitors can go to try their own luck at panning for gems. Some of the gems visitors can hope to find include rubies, sapphires, rhodolite, and moonstone. The Old Cardinal Gem Mine provides visitors with all the equipment they need to complete the task. There are also on site picnic tables and a nice outdoor area.
Address
Old Cardinal Gem Mine
71 Rockhaven Drive
Franklin, NC 28734-8691
United States
Phone 1 (828) 369-7534
Fax 1 (828) 369-6677
Rose Creek Mine
The Rose Creek Mine in Franklin is one of the sites where visitors can mine for their own gems. Visitors are invited to sift through the soil and take home whatever the find. Instruction is provided as is education on the history of mining here in general. The Rose Creek Mine is a great outing to learn about mining while participating. This is always a favorite outing with families.
Hours
April 1 to October 31
MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
Open9:009:009:009:009:009:00Closed
Close17:0017:0017:0017:0017:0017:00
Cost
Adult$ 6.00
Child 8 & under$ 4.00
All values are in United States Dollars
Facilities
Gift shop
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