Crystal Mining is unique fun for the whole family
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Last updated 7/23/2013 at Noon
Sylvia Dickey Smith, formerly of Orange and Beverly LeBlanc of Orangefield clean crystals they found in Arkansas at the Coleman’s Miller Mountain Mine near Hot Springs. RECORD PHOTO: Penny LeLeux
Quartz crystals can be found in everything from watches to radios as the mineral can be used to store information, conduct electricity and makes a great transmitter. In the metaphysical world they are used for healing, transformation and a myriad of purposes.
Crystals of all sizes valued from pennies to thousands of dollars, depending on the size, properties and quality of individual pieces can be found everywhere in Arkansas, the crystal capitol of the world.
A fun and inexpensive activity for families on vacation is to dig for your own crystals. There are mines throughout Arkansas. A recommended mine just north of Hot Springs is Coleman’s Miller Mountain Mine owned by Jimmy Coleman. You can dig all day for $10 a person. Children under 10 are free with a paying adult.
A local authority recommends this mine, rather than Jimmy’s brother, Ron Coleman’s location for the quality of dirt and frequency it is replenished. They guarantee you will find crystals and you keep all you find.
The mine is open seven days a week year around from sunrise to sunset, rain or shine. In fact, they say the best time to dig is after a recent rain because it exposes more crystals.
Be prepared with gloves, digging tools and sensible shoes as the terrain is rocky. Don’t forget to bring a container or bag to put your finds in. It gets really hot in the summer, so be prepared with water and maybe a hat. If you forget, they do have small garden tools, bags and water for sale at the location.
They have restrooms and camping on site. Primitive spaces for tents are $4. Spaces with electricity and water are $10. There are shower rooms on site for $2 per shower.
The folks at the mine are very helpful showing you what to look for and telling you how to clean the crystals.
For more information or to reserve camping space call 501-984-5752.
To reach the mine from Hot Springs take Highway 7 North through Hot Springs Village. Turn on Hwy 298 by Mandy’s. Go nine miles west on Hwy 298 from the intersection, turn left and follow the signs.
Sylvia Dickey Smith, formerly of Orange and Beverly LeBlanc of Orangefield clean crystals they found in Arkansas at the Coleman’s Miller
Mountain Mine near Hot Springs. RECORD PHOTO: Penny LeLeux
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