The "Gem Capital of the World" as it is known, Franklin is located in the beautiful mountains of Western N.C.. A good overview of rockhounding in the area can be found on their Chamber of Commerce page.

There are popular public collecting sites, such as Chunky Gal Mountain. A number of gem mines are also to be found in the area. Most are salted, but a few native ones remain, such as Cherokee Ruby Mine and Mason's Ruby and Sapphire Mine, which are both great places with absolutely wonderful staff. This is an excellent destination for a rockhound's vacation, especially with all the other great activities and things to do in the region, and would also be ideal for a family vacation, as the mines provide an easy and educational introduction to rockhounding for kids.