In the hills and valleys of western North Carolina, there are plenty of hidden gems. Not just fun or little know spots, but literally gems hidden in the rocks and soil. The area around Spruce Pine is ...

Western North Carolina offers several locations for gem mining and exploration. Emerald Village, near Spruce Pine, allows visitors to dig for gems and go underground. Other popular spots in and around ...

Uncover precious gems and lots of fun at Sugar Creek Gem Mine in Banner Elk. Uncover precious gems and lots of fun at Sugar Creek Gem Mine in Banner Elk.

If you're going on a road trip, I hope you're staying open-minded and flexible. After all, there's nothing better than spying on a weird roadside attraction, then peeling off at the next exit to get a ...

Western North Carolina is known for its hills full of hidden treasures. From rubies and sapphires to emeralds and gold, the region is stocked with gems, stones and minerals still waiting to be ...