Amethyst mines
Loads of open-cast ‘amethyst mines’ have been found in this region; from 55 Km to 75 Km on the north-eastern side of Thunder Bay. Dealers which operate on the local level have certain best quality stones (for sale). Those interested in geology are bound to gain a lot of knowledge at this place. They can also carry some of them home by the way of buying them.
I visited the area once back in high school (in 1982).
Beautiful Area, especially driving the long shore of Lake Superior on the way back.
I’ll have to try to find some old photos of that trip.
Amethysts are beautiful. Found some classic Thunder Bat pieces with deep purple color and topped with opaque red hematite. Very nice well worth the trip. The deposits of Amethyst is huge and I hear collecting is still quite good. I need to plan a trip maybe next summer.
Some of the mines in the area:
Boulder Creek Amethyst Mines
Unique Dig-your-own Amethyst Mine.This is a safe family oriented mine, full of fun and adventure. Located minutes by car from Trans Canada Hwy 11/17. Great scenery and specimens.Open May till Oct
36 Trillium Crt | Thunder Bay, ON | P7B 2M1 [ Map ]
Amethyst Mine Panorama
Discovered in 1955, this is North America’s largest amethyst deposit. The mine has been in production since 1960. It is possible to take a walking tour of the mine operation, and to dig for your own amethysts.
East Loon Road | Thunder Bay, ON
Thunder Bay Agate Mine
Visit the only agate mine in Canada that hosts the world’s largest agate. Thunder Bay Agate Mine is one of three places in the world where the agate is found in vein formation.
RR17 Hwy 527 | Thunder Bay, ON | P7B 6B3
1 807 683-3595
| Ontarion Gem Mining Company |
Visitors can collect their own mineral samples and beautiful gemstones at the Gem Mining Company. Find amethyst glistening in its natural state at this open surface mine. Take a walking tour to learn more about the mining process. A gift shop featuring refined gems is also on site. Open mid-May to mid-October.
PO Box 10310 | Thunder Bay, ON | P7B 6TB
1 807 626-6332
Rockhound Amethyst & Minerals
| Address: | 4742 HIghway 17 Kakabeka Falls, Ontario Canada P0T 1W0 |
Purple Haze Amethyst
The Purple Haze Amethyst have been in operation since 1981, and offer a wide variety of specimens, amethyst giftware, and jewelry from their Mine. Their home-based shop is located on Knight Street and is open daily.
| Address: | 22 knight Street Thunder Bay, Ontario Canada P7A 5M2 |
| Tel: | (807) 345-6444 |
| Hours: | 10:00am to 6:00pm Daily or by appointment |