Gem Hunting in Canada

Gem hunters are often rewarded with beautiful treasures.

Rock hounds seek treasures around the world in the form of gems and minerals. Some go to rock shops, metaphysical stores or annual shows that features collections from sellers. While anyone could probably dig around in remote areas of Canada and hope for good outcomes, better chances are found at the various mines that let visitors come and dig.

Mining Basics

Fluorite can be found in many colors.

Most public mines are open from May to October; be sure to check specific sites for their schedules. Admissions vary, as do costs for what you might harvest and want to keep. Fees typically vary by weight. Some mines provide equipment and digging tools. Others expect you to bring your own pickaxe, shovel, buckets and so forth. Safety equipment is always recommended, especially good eye protection, gloves, proper shoes and clothing, as well as sunscreen, a hat and flashlights.

Gems

Quartz crystals are often found in mines known more for other stones.

Canada is known for opals and amethyst, but a number of other crystals and gemstones can be found, too. These can include barite, calcite, quartz, geodes, galena, fluorite, stromatolite, pyrite, tourmaline and more. Fossils can be found in certain areas, so be sure to ask the various mine operators about them. The raw forms of these can be dug up and taken home for polishing, cutting or faceting. Contact the many different lapidary societies for further information.

Opals and Beryl Mines

Amethyst can be found in several Canadian mines.

North of Kelown and east of Kamloops in British Columbia, you can find Canada's first precious opal mine, which is operated by Opal Resources Canada, Inc. Day trips for opal digging are available through the Opal Miners Shop in Vernon. The Beryl Pit is located in Quadeville, Ontario, which is also home to a rose quartz mine.

Amethyst and More

Geodes are fun to discover when hunting for gems and minerals.

Two amethyst mines, Boulder Creek Amethyst Mines and Amethyst Mine Panorama, are not too far east of Thunder Bay in Ontario; The latter mine is considered Canada's "largest working amethyst mine."

The Rock Candy Mine in Grand Forks, British Columbia, welcomes visitors who want to dig for the many stones that can be found in the area. The mountain setting is an additional seasonal draw.

Clubs and Shows

More sites exist, and a great way to learn about rock and gem hunting is through gem and mineral shows, where dealers share their wares and expertise. Annual events are usually held in Calgary (Alberta), Richmond (British Columbia), Scarborough (Toronto) and Ancaster (Ontario). Smaller shows may occur in other areas; inquire at local shops or have your name added to e-lists for rock hounds.

References

• Global Info Mine: Diavik Diamond Mine
• Yukon Exploration, Mining and Tourism
• Association for Mineral Exploration British Columbia
• Rock Candy Mine
• Mindat: Beryl Pit, Where the Beryls Hide in Ontario

Resources

• The Vug: Mineral and Lapidary Clubs in the U.S. and Canada
• Amethyst Mine Panorama
• Okanagan Opal: Dig Your Own Opals
• Bob's Rock Shop: British Columbia Collecting Sites
• Gem & Mineral Club of Scarborough