Adventure and your own diamond: what can be found in the New York Gem Mine

There are many vibrant landmarks in New York, but only Herkimer Diamond Mines will allow you to find your own gem. Only In Your State... Their above ground mines are seasonally open to the public, and there is even a campground on site if you want to stay for a few days.

In total, the territory is over 100 hectares. There are three mines available for public mining. You will be given a special hammer and information on how to find the best crystals.

You can bring your own equipment such as goggles, gloves and shovels. They can also be purchased from the shop on the mine's grounds.

Herkimer diamonds are quartz crystals that are 500 million years old! You can find them by breaking open rocks in mines. You can take home any crystals you find.

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In some respects, they are better than real diamonds. Real diamonds are stones that need to be polished and cut into the traditional and well-known diamond shape. Herkimer diamonds originally have 18 natural facets.

For the less adventurous of us, the mine also offers sluice mining. This is a simpler form of mining in which you are given a bag and sieve and you flush out the waste to find gems and fossils inside.

If you are interested in geology or just love being outdoors, this is a great way to pass the time. Where else can you break rocks with hammers?

Be sure to use sunscreen, as you can definitely get sunburned outdoors for several hours.

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The gift shop sells a variety of interesting jewelry and precious stones. There is even a craft center where you can turn newly discovered gems into jewelry.

For more information on the Herkimer Diamond Mines or KOA Resort on their site, visit them Web site.

Address: Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort, 4601 NY-28, Herkimer, NY 13350.