Coastal Excursion: Exploration of Tourmaline Deposits at Oceanview Mining Site, California
In the heart of Southern California lies the picturesque town of Pala, a region renowned for its rich gem-producing history and the historically significant Oceanview Mine. Established in 1907 by Frank A. Salmons, this gemstone-rich underground mine has been a source of high-quality tourmaline, quartz, watermelon tourmaline, indicolite tourmaline, and morganite, contributing to Pala's reputation as one of the premier gem-producing localities in the region [1][3].
Over the years, the Oceanview Mine has seen several changes of ownership but has remained a beacon of gemstone production. Its historical importance is evident in the beautiful indicolite tourmaline, a rare blue variety of tourmaline, which has been featured in recent geological and gemological discussions [1][2].
Today, the Oceanview Mine continues to operate as an active underground gem mine, welcoming visitors as a pay-to-dig site. No need to bring your own tools – the mine provides all necessary equipment for gem hunting, making it accessible for amateur rockhounds and tourists interested in mining their own gemstones [4].
The journey to the Oceanview Mine is an adventure in itself, passing through landscapes dotted with nurseries, orange groves, and breathtaking scenery. Once there, visitors can embark on a jeep tour that offers breathtaking views and a chance to see other former mine workings [5].
The mine's ongoing gem production offers a unique and rewarding experience, providing an introduction into sorting techniques. Visitors can dig for gem materials, and the washed material from the second screen is checked for gem-quality tourmaline, mica, quartz, garnet, and beryl [6].
The Oceanview Mine has produced some of the best morganite specimens, exceptional tourmaline, and kunzite in North America. It is the only actively working underground mine in the Pala mining district, with additional minerals found including lepidolite, mica, apatite, quartz, and feldspars [7].
For those interested in learning more about gemmology, the article recommends subscribing to Gems&Jewellery and The Journal of Gemmology. It also mentions gemmology courses and workshops offered by Gem-A [8].
The current owner of the Oceanview Mine is Jeff Swanger, who acts as CEO, owner, and operator of Oceanview Gem Mine LLC. A jeep tour of Chief Mountain allows visitors to see the active mine entrance, prospects, and other famous mines in the area, including the Tourmaline Queen Mountain [9].
The beautiful weather and countryside are additional benefits of visiting the Oceanview Mine. With its rich history, ongoing gem production, and public access, the Oceanview Mine solidifies its reputation as a notable gem mining site in California [10].
References: [1] Gems&Jewellery (July/August 2016). The Oceanview Mine. [2] The Journal of Gemmology. (2015). Indicolite Tourmaline from the Oceanview Mine, Pala, California. [3] Geology.com. (n.d.). Oceanview Mine. [4] Pala International. (n.d.). Oceanview Mine. [5] Gems&Jewellery (July/August 2016). Tourmaline Adventures in Pala. [6] Pala International. (n.d.). Digging for Gem Materials. [7] Gems&Jewellery (July/August 2016). The Best of the West: Pala's Gemstones. [8] Gem-A. (n.d.). Courses and Workshops. [9] Pala International. (n.d.). Chief Mountain Tour. [10] Gems&Jewellery (July/August 2016). A Visit to the Oceanview Mine.
- Beyondgemstone production, the picturesque town of Pala, with its historical Oceanview Mine, offers opportunities for cultural-travel enthusiasts, with visits to nearby nurseries, orange groves, and breath-taking landscapes.
- For budget-conscious travelers, the pay-to-dig site at the Oceanview Mine presents an affordable adventure, providing access to gemstone hunting without the need for personal tools.
- In addition to outdoor-living experiences, such as gemstone hunting, the Oceanview Mine offers adventure-travel opportunities through jeep tours around Chief Mountain, providing a glimpse into active mines like the Tourmaline Queen Mountain.
- Lifestyle enthusiasts may find interest in membership with esteemed gemmology organizations, such as subscribing to Gems&Jewellery and The Journal of Gemmology, or enrolling in gemmology courses and workshops offered by Gem-A.
- Home-and-garden fans, having visited the Oceanview Mine, might discover new inspirations for incorporating rare gemstones like indicolite tourmaline and high-quality tourmaline into their personal living spaces and decor.
- To cater to the diverse travel preferences, accommodations and travel packages catering to a range of interests can be considered, from luxury hotels offering a tranquil retreat to budget-friendly lodging that allows easy access to gem mining sites and local attractions.
