Gem Mining In Franklin NC!

In 1870, companies began mining corundum in Macon County. Second only to diamonds in hardness, corundum is used as an industrial abrasive. Commercial mining stopped when synthetic corundum became a cheaper solution for industrial needs. The mines were forgotten until locals and tourists became interested in them for another reason—finding their own rubies and sapphires.

Sapphires and rubies are both variations of corundum. We tend to think of sapphires as blue, but they can be green, pink, yellow, and many other colors depending on the presence of different impurities.
All colors of corundum are called sapphire except one: red corundum is always a ruby.

I'm just running around and checking out all of the gem mines and gathering up some information. Bob, the owner of the Franklin RV park wants me to try a gem mine just 10 minutes from here. I will be going soon to do my own gem mining. (can't wait to get my ruby) I need to know about all of the attractions in the area so I can answer questions that the customers might ask (tough job, but someone has to do it! ).