Allowed
Emerald Hollow Mine
North Carolina, Alexander·Rockhounding
Emerald Hollow Mine is a private, pay-to-dig operation — no government permit exists or is needed — but it is not the site of North Carolina's record-setting emerald finds; those came from two private mines next door that don't admit the public.
- Emerald Hollow Mine is private property — you pay the operator's own day permit ($30/adult ages 15+, $10/child ages 4–14 as of this writing), not a government permit; confirm current pricing before visiting since posted rates change with seasonal promotions
- Everyone on the property needs a permit, whether digging, sluicing, or just watching