Three years ago my wife and I started "Gem Mining" or "Gem Hunting". The first and best place to explore is called Gem Mountain. They are very knowledgeable and offered many varieties of buckets for "sloothing" or "panning". At different times of the year, they also offer "digs" in an actual Aquamarine Mine locate not far from their shop. After finding the stones, crystals and gems, You can have them cut, or the cut can come free with a paid for bucket of minerals. When I spoke to the Shops manager, He claim, "We Are The Best Gem Shop On The East Coast" and after our visit, I believe him.
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