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.

Western North Carolina is a great place to strike your fortunes. The ridges here might not be the boldest or tallest in the country, but these woods are home to some of America's oldest mountain ...

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Western North Carolina is known for its hills full of hidden treasures. From rubies and sapphires to emeralds and gold, the region ...