Graves Mountain New Year M.A.G.M.A. Dig Event

Thanks to Clarence Norman Jr., Richard Jacquot, and the Mountain Area Gem and Mineral Association, the mountain was open for those willing to brave the cold in January for the chance to collect the many types of minerals found at Graves mountain. The unique terrain and the amazing views only adds to the marvel of the mountain! We spent most of our time chasing the "rainbow" (iridescent Hematite). Of course we made sure to bring home a few of our other favorites too...lazulite, kyanite, pyrophyllite,
pyrite, and a few quartz crystals too!



https://www.facebook.com/groups/33427...

(Copied from the Graves Mountain Facebook page)...
HOW TO COLLECT AT GRAVES MOUNTAIN
1. If you want to schedule a private dig or a club dig, contact Clarence Norman Jr. to see if the date(s) you want to collect are available. 706-401-3173
2. He will inform you of the rules and procedures you need to follow. These change occasionally, but the general rules remain the same and are listed below.
A minimum of two adults is required to schedule a private dig. Any children must be at least 13 years old or older, and under adult supervision at all times, no exceptions. If you want to bring young children to dig at Graves, you will need to attend one of the two open public digs, the first full weekend in October, and the last full weekend in April yearly. These dates are always the same unless otherwise posted, and the next public event is always listed in the featured section on this site.
No power tools are allowed. Hand tools only; pick, shovel, hammer, sifting screen, etc. Nothing gas, electric, or battery operated.
No bicycles, e-bikes, segways, or any other wheeled vehicles are allowed. You walk in, and you walk out. If you prefer to ride in and out with a motorized cart, you will need to attend one of the two public digs listed above.
Hand pulled hand trucks and wagons are allowed.
Park your vehicle in the designated area at the end of the paved access road.
All pets must be kept under control and on a leash.
The caretaker, Clarence Norman Jr. has final and absolute say as to where you may safely work.
STAY AWAY FROM ALL HIGH WALLS!
NO RAPPELLING OFF OF ANYTHING!
No one is allowed to drive their vehicle on any part of Graves Mountain beyond the parking area!
Do not go beyond any areas in the mine area that are fenced/roped off and marked ‘Stay Out’, ‘Danger’, etc. There are cameras in various areas of the mine. If you violate the rules, you not only will be banned from the mine, but you also jeopardize others' chances of future collecting.
Please protect our ability to field collect at Graves Mountain!
Report violations to:
Junior Norman
Norman C E Wrecking Co
3333 C E Norman Rd
Lincolnton, GA 30817-3110
706-401-3173
All reported violations will be held in strict confidence.
3. Collecting fee/release form(s): There is no fee to collect at Graves Mountain, it is by donation. You make a donation based on what you feel it is worth to have access to a world-class collecting site. The caretaker is taking the time to give you access to the site for a private dig. How much fun and memories you and your family will have.
Each person will need to fill out a release form upon arrival.
4. Time to arrive and when to leave: Clarence Norman Jr. will inform you when to arrive at the gate and when you need to be off the mountain.
5. Camping/Hotels: No camping is allowed on the mountain. Below is a list of local accommodations available in Lincolnton:
Cullars Inn, Lincolnton, Georgia, 706-359-6161
Soap Creek Marina, Cabins and Camping. 706-359-4100. 3000 Soap Creek Lodge Road.
Elijah Clark State Park, 706-359-3458 / 800-864-7275
6. Directions: From Washington Georgia, drive east 11 miles on SR-378, look for mine entrance on right. From the Hardees in Lincolnton, Georgia, drive approximately 5-1/2 miles west on SR-378. Look for the sign at the entrance to Graves Mountain on the left side of the road. GPS 33°44'40.8"N 82°31'52.5"W

#minerals #georgia #crystals