Rio Dòce Gem Mine — Local services in Spruce Pine

This place is awesome! Robert and his wife are super nice people! We've been to almost all of the gem mines/shops in the area including those in McDowell County. The Rio D'oce is hands down the best! We got a $35.00 bucket to go. At first I thought that was a little steep compared to other mines for the same amount if material... boy was I wrong! Every other mine we've bought buckets from were all about the same as far as the amount of gemstones found inside. The Rio Doce bucket had at least double the gemstones and there were so many more varieties! Most if the other mines acted as if we were an inconvenience to them, not Robert. He welcome us to his place and came from behind the counter to greet us. We told him what we wanted and he showed us what he had to offer, as I said we got a $35.00 bucket to go. When we got home neither of us could believe the stones inside! Colors of all kinds & shapes & sizes. "Blown away" would best describe our reaction to everything we got in that bucket! Thanks Robert! We will...

This is a truly amazing and powerful store run by a very nice family with the support of some equally nice and knowledgable employees. They have a very diverse and powerful selection of beautiful minerals all priced at a point I felt was very reasonable. Many, many types of minerals displayed in seemingly endless ways. My first trip there i spent easily over 15 minutes taking it all in and wasn’t pressured by any sales person. If you are into crystals, amethyst, citrine, etc. this place is for you. I now stop each time I’m in the area and always leave not only feeling much better because of the stores energy but also a bit more knowledgable and always pleased because of the positive experience. If you’re in the area do yourself a favor and stop. If not there’s always the internet or call the store. They are always happy to answer questions from a place of knowledge and to track down that special piece you have in mind. It’s a great store with...

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A gem of a place—literally and figuratively!

Rio Dolce Gem Mine is a fantastic destination for families and rock lovers alike. The location is beautiful and peaceful, perfect for a day out. The gem buckets were full of colorful, beautiful stones—my kids were thrilled with their finds! There’s also a great gift shop filled with unique rocks, gems, and treasures.

What really sets this place apart are the owners, Bob and Elaine. They are some of the kindest people you’ll meet—genuinely passionate about what they do. You can tell they run this place out of love, not for profit. Elaine even took the time to show my children how to identify different rocks and gems, which made the experience extra special.Bob made my day with an unexpected beautiful mystery rock!

The site is well kept, with clean restrooms and picnic tables to relax at. They even offer gem cutting and lapidary classes! Highly recommend for anyone visiting...