How Gemstone Mining Works...

Our gem mining sluice is a system of troughs allowing water cascade continuously in a recirculating pattern. Visitors may purchase a bag of mining rough enriched with gems and fossils. Our gem mixes contain stones from all over the world, including India, Madagascar, Brazil, Mexico, Uruguay, and many more, ​All bags contain a variety of gems, but each color bag represents a different concentration of gems. For instance, the green bag includes emeralds, rubies, and quartz. All bags include a gem identification booklet, and come in a reusable zip-locked bag for storage of gems after mining is complete.

Each "miner" will gradually sift the contents of their mining rough in the water using mining pans or baskets. The water washes the sand away and what is left is all the pretty gems and fossils that they get to keep. Each “miner” also receives a bag for the items that they collect and an identification card to take home.

This family-friendly activity is fun for people of all ages. Gem mining engages the imagination with both a sense of discovery & adventure, while also providing educational opportunities. Miners love identifying what they find and discovering their inner geologist. The best part is that each miner gets to keep everything they find. Each bag is unique, so miners get to experience the joy of mystery and discovery every time they visit "The Mine at Grasshopper Farms."

Gemstone Mining at Grasshopper Farms is convenient to Raleigh, NC as well as the entire Triangle area as we are just off I-87 in Knightdale, NC.

Fun For Everyone!