Arkansas is home to the quartz crystal capital of the world, Mt. Ida, near Hot Springs. Our first dig was at the Coleman Mine. We went without knowing what to expect and we had a really good time. They dig big buckets of quartz laden earth out of the mine and bring it up to the area where you can dig. They call it the "tailings". You can set your chair up next to a pile and dig or you can walk around. But, you cannot go down into the actual mine area. It is way too dangerous. I climbed up to the top of a large mound and felt the urge to dig in one particular spot. I kept digging until I had a hole about 8 inches deep and something just kept telling me to dig. All of a sudden something sliced my finger and there was a lot of blood but I just kept on digging another inch and pulled out MY quartz. I think it was calling to "me". 
It is very special and I pick it up and hold it when I am feeling stressed or just need a pick-me-up. It has many unique features and I would never part with it. 
You can go to http://www.mtidachamber.com/ and click on "dig your own crystals" to see the different mines and the specimens they get out. Some are truly amazing! My husband found a large chunk that he is quite proud of. 
You can go to http://www.mtidachamber.com/ and click on "dig your own crystals" to see the different mines and the specimens they get out. Some are truly amazing! My husband found a large chunk that he is quite proud of. 
When you find one it gives you a special feeling that you could get addicted to, just knowing that you are the first person EVER to see it.
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I want to go on a dig or gem sifting too. Looks like a lot of fun.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like so much fun. I'm so glad you followed your instincts. What a nice piece.
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