Minerals and Native Gemstones (Gems) Found in Western NC

• Precious stones, or gems, such as ruby, sapphire, aquamarine, and emerald can be found in North Carolina. North Carolina also has the great honor of producing the largest and highest quality emeralds in North America. In fact, the emerald is our state stone. The largest star sapphire in the world was also found right here in Western NC at the Old Pressley Mine. Our fine state has many streams and locations that can be panned for gold as well.
• A short list of native gemstones found in Western NC: Agate, amazonite, amethyst, aquamarine, beryl, diamond (rare), garnet, jasper, moonstone, opal, peridot, ruby, sapphire, smoky quartz, topaz, tourmaline, and quartz.