Go "Diamond" Mining in Herkimer, NY
Everyone daydreams about mining for gold in the Old West. You don't need to travel across the country (or back in time) to have a cool mining experience.
To find the world-renowned Herkimer diamond fields, hop on I-87 North, and then head West on I-90. Total drive time is about 3 hours and 45 minutes from NYC.
Herkimer "Diamonds" Are True Gems, but Not Diamonds
Back in the day, jewelers and scientists didn't understand the makeup of gemstones. So any super-sparkly, clear stone was called a diamond.
Herkimer Diamonds are double-terminated quartz crystals, meaning they have a point on each end.
Geologists say these phenomenal gemstones are close to five hundred million years old.
Unlike other gems, they come out of the earth naturally faceted — many can be set into jewelry immediately.
Genuine diamonds must be painstakingly cut to create smooth faces and a geometrical shape.
Herkimer "Diamond" Quartz is a tough stone, ranking 7.5 on Moh's hardness scale, making them suitable for any jewelry — even an engagement ring!
How to Mine Herkimer "Diamond" Quartz
Spend the day outdoors at Herkimer's above-ground surface mines. Collection methods vary, but most people break open rocks with hammers and picks. You can keep every gem you find! After you find your diamonds, visit Herkimer's "Build and Wear, Build to Share" activity center to craft a custom piece of jewelry for yourself or someone you love.
Jewelry-making prices vary based on the final product and the metals used. Naturally, a 14k gold necklace is going to cost more to craft than a sterling silver ring.
"Diamond" mining in Herkimer, New York, is a fun and affordable outdoor adventure. Admission is free for children under age 4, $12.00 for kids age 5 – 12, and $14.00 for anyone ages 13 and up, per the HerkimerDiamond.com website. Your admission includes a rock pick, but safety glasses / goggles are recommended and can be purchased there or brought from home.
You can also try your hand at sluice mining indoors. Buy bags of rocks and dirt, and spend a few hours seeking the hidden gems within. Then, enjoy a local dining experience.
Great Eats in Herkimer, NY
Whether you'd prefer the casual experience at Canteen Cafe in the Miners Village, or a wood-fired pizza and wings at Miners' Table, there's plenty of great food in Herkimer!
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