The gem mining activity is sold separately. It features an interactive waterfall and a sluice perfect for kids of all ages. The Anakeesta Gem Mine is located at 576 Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg.

The Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine in Franklin, about 90 minutes southwest of Asheville, offers another “dig-your-own” experience in an area with a rich mining heritage dating back to the 1870s.

Store owner Sheila Bass, left, and lapidary artist Maggie Landsrud put mining rough through a sluice to collect gemstones Feb. 24 at West Central RockHounds in the Uptown Willmar mall.

Explore the Howard City Gem Mine this spring break, where you can sift through raw material to uncover gems. The sluice lets you wash sand like in the Gold Rush, and the gift store offers a ...

LA GRANGE, Ky. — A new gem mining experience in Oldham Co. is giving kids a sense of wonder. Little Big Gem Mine and Rock Shop is located on Highway 524 in La Grange.

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 ...