126 pgs. b&w photos, maps. 2003. Upper elementary, middle school, high school.

Known for prized rubies, sapphires, and other gems, North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains hold rich treasure for rockhounds. This guide covers 30 rock and mineral collecting sites in 17 western counties. Visit the mine where the 1,445-carat “Star of the Carolinas” star sapphire was discovered; explore creeks and streams to screen for almandine garnet; and experience the glow of Chalk Mountain hyalite opal, said to be the most highly fluorescent opal in the world.

Geologist Michael Streeter includes everything you need for your rockhounding adventure: clear, concise directions to each site, a list of rocks and miinerals to be found there, recommended tools, color photographs of mineral specimens, and a glossary of geological terms. Guidelines for safe and responsible collecting, along with information on the region's colorful mining history, make this a very useful and educational guide.

Curriculum Applications: 4th & 8th Grade Social Studies; 4th Grade Science; All Grades Language Arts - Reference

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