Best Gem Mining

Not just gem mining, an experience!

We do it differently.

We look forward to having you and your family gem mining at the Lilly Pad Village.

In the past, we used pre-filled buckets like everyone else. The quantity and assortment of gemstones in these buckets varied considerably, leaving some guests with more and some with less treasure to take with them. Our improved method guarantees that all our visitors leave with the most generous and motley finds.

When gem mining at the Lilly Pad, you will receive two empty cups at the beginning of your adventure. The one with the scoop is the dirt cup; the other is the measuring (weight) cup. The dirt cups are filled with dirt (and gemstones) from the treasure boxes – you dug and mined. This mix is ‘washed’ in our wood flumes, thus separating the gemstones from the dirt. The measuring cups are then filled with the gemstones you find, and the content is put in plastic bags for you to take home when full.

An experience unique to the Lilly Pad Village. This system not only guarantees an exceptional treasure trove but is also more authentic as you are the one mining your pay dirt. Every dig is singular; the gemstones are large and colorful and may contain various beautiful and exciting gemstones such as Emerald, Sapphire, Ruby, Garnet, Amethyst, Quartz, Tiger Eye, and Moonstone.

Our knowledgeable staff is always there to explain what you discover and offer information on the gemstones and recommendations for hiking, dining, and other Blue Ridge activities.

No one leaves without a vast stock of treasure, a smile, or the wish to be back soon. We get hundreds of repeat visitors, great reviews, and lots of kids (and adults) showing up three / four times during their vacation. Repeat miners always get a discount!

We guarantee that your gem mining adventure will be the best, and we do not use the word ‘best’ lightly.

We are located off Aska Road, on a beautiful property away from traffic and noise. We offer a shaded area with seating and fans to cool the air and chase bugs away. Rain is not an obstacle – our gem mining is covered.

Buying tickets online will always SAVE you money. Discount for groups of ten or more. Gift certificates are available.

Many tried to imitate but could never duplicate Lilly Pad Gem Mining. You must experience the Lilly Pad magic!

Gem Mining Pricing

	Our one-pound gem-cup is a great size experience for one person. It indicates the approximate quantity of gemstones you will find in your bucket.	$20..00
	Our two-pounds gem-cup is a great size experience for up to two guests. It indicates the approximate quantity of gemstones you will find in your bucket. You save $4.00.	$36.00
	Our four-pounds gem-cup is a great size experience for up to four guests. It indicates the approximate quantity of gemstones you will find in your bucket. You save $12.00.	$68.00
	Our five-pounds gem-cup is a great size experience for up to five guests. It indicates the approximate quantity of gemstones you will find in your bucket. You save $20.00.	$80.00
	Our seven-pounds gem-cup is an excellent size experience for up to seven guests. It indicates the approximate quantity of gemstones you will find in your bucket. It comes with an additional bag of polished gems and a gem id card. You save $35.	$105
	13 Lbs of gemstones in our famous Mega Bucket. It comes with two additional bags of gemstones and two gem id cards. This is the best value per pound. * You save $6.00 per pound, $78.00 total.	$182.00
	Gem ID Card	$3.00

Download our Gem Mining ID Card.

You do not need to bring this card with you. We do have them laminated at the gem mining flumes. This is simply for your personla use.