Summary:

North Carolina is home to the only 2 commercial emerald mines not just in the United States, but in North America. The Crabtree Emerald mine was operated commercially in various stints from the late 1800s to 1990s. Today, it can still be accessed by the public for $25/day through the M.A.G.M.A. rock club.

You’ll be looking for Emerald in-matrix here, meaning it will still be encased in the surrounding rock. The vein in which the emerald was initially found has been dug out and the mine has flooded. To find emerald, you’ll be digging in the tailings. Aim for areas that appear undisturbed!

To dig at Crabtree, I visited the Emerald Village shop to sign a waiver and get directions to the mine. I have the coordinates on this page leading to the mine itself, rather than the shop. Do not go directly to the mine without paying and receiving permission.

Emerald Village webpage with additional information: https://www.emeraldvillage.com/mines-activities/crabtree-emerald-mine/

Address to Emerald Village: 331 McKinney Mine Road
Spruce Pine, NC 28777