Emerald Village, Spruce Pine

Most Popular Attraction/Offering: Gem mining and mine tours

Reservations/Appointments: Not offered

Established: 1980

Staff Size: 15 people

Average Duration of Services: 2–4 hours

Parking: Parking lot

Handicap Accessible: No

Recommended Age Group: All Ages

Pro Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and allow plenty of time to see all our attractions, activities, and shops.

Q&A with Alan Schabilion, Owner

What is one fun, unusual fact about your business?

We are the only recreational gemstone mine in the area that also has a real underground mine tour on premise.

As the old adage says, "Stuff happens." What training do you and your staff have to stay ahead of the unexpected?

All of our staff have been with us for years and are highly experienced in handling any unforeseen situations. Experience is the best teacher, but our management team is always available for backup support.

What’s your favorite part of your job?

This is not a job, it's a passion. Preserving and sharing mining history is important in our mineral-rich area. Particularly enjoyable is the chance to conduct guided mine tours for many school and church groups.

Is there anything else you want to add that we didn't cover?

Did we mention REAL mines? We have a list of 58 things to do at Emerald Village. The activities include mine tours, gemstone mining, mineral collecting, gold panning, the free Company store museum, free educational exhibits, and unique shopping. See why we've recently been featured on the National Geographic Channel, Travel Channel, and UNC Public TV.