The Gem Capital of the World

09-27-2025

Franklin shines with natural treasures.

My wife and I have made various road trips over the years seeking out adventure. One of the places we visited was Franklin, North Carolina. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Franklin, North Carolina, proudly calls itself the Gem Capital of the World. Located 125 miles north of Atlanta and 65 miles west of Asheville, Franklin has a rich history of corundum mining dating back to 1870. This legacy continues to attract gem enthusiasts, collectors, and adventurers seeking treasures hidden beneath the soil.

Corundum brought fame and opportunity.

Corundum, prized for its hardness and durability, has both practical and decorative value. Beyond rubies and sapphires, the mineral resists most acids and ranks second only to diamonds in hardness. In the late 1800s, even Tiffany & Co. showed interest in Franklin’s deposits, though no prominent ruby veins were discovered. Today, this history leaves modern gem hunters with the chance to uncover what others overlooked.

Mining experiences await visitors.

Most mines near Franklin offer gem dirt by the bucket or bag, ready to be sifted in flumes of running water. Visitors should wear older clothes, bring towels for seating, and pack Ziploc bags for storing treasures. Wooden benches and troughs are standard, and operators guide beginners in identifying stones. The thrill comes when the mud washes away and flashes of color appear.

Essentials for a gem-hunting trip.

Admission fees vary by mine, but the Franklin Chamber of Commerce gem map makes planning easy. With this guide, you can navigate popular mines and gem shops throughout the region. Don’t forget a camera to capture the excitement when your screen reveals rubies, sapphires, or garnets. Every visit is an adventure, whether you are a novice or seasoned collector.

Top attractions enhance the journey.

A visit should include the Jackson Hole Gem Mine, known for its clean flumes and scenic location near waterfalls. Ruby City Gems showcases an impressive mineral collection and provides mining supplies. Finally, the Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum, housed in the Old Jail, highlights local history with fascinating exhibits. Admission is free, making it a must-see stop.

Learn the art of gem mining.

The “three C’s” of gem mining—Color, Clarity, and Crystals—help identify stones. Rubies shine silky red, sapphires appear in many colors, and quartz often sparkles in crystal form. Mines like Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire, Cowee Mountain, and Gold City each offer unique finds. With guidance, even beginners can recognize valuable stones and take home gems worth cutting and setting.

Franklin remains a gem hunter’s paradise.

From corundum’s industrial past to today’s vibrant gem tourism, Franklin earns its title as the Gem Capital of the World. Whether sifting through buckets, exploring gem shops, or touring the Old Jail museum, visitors uncover both history and beauty. For those who love adventure, Franklin offers treasures waiting to be discovered in every screen of dirt.

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