Gemtree- NT
Airing Date: Aug 4th, 2007
Gemtree, a caravan park in the
Harts Range is best known as a destination for eager fossickers who come in search of semi-precious gems abundant in the area.
The
Harts Ranges were the scene of a gem and mineral rush in the 19th Century. Early settlers mistook the garnets for rubies, hence the name of nearby
Ruby Gap Carmel and Cameron Chalmers are local to the area and are supposed to be enjoying their retirement. They took over the park before the last season and have been busy in their "retirement" ever since.
This Family run caravan park offers the only gem-fossicking tours in the area.
Gemtree boasts two gem fields, one of garnets and one of zircons.
Garnet, the birthstone for January is a group of minerals that have been used since the Bronze Age (3500BC - 1200BC) as gemstones and abrasives.
Zircon, not to be confused with man-made cubic zirconia, is more valued than garnets. The traditional birthstone for December, it's colours range from colorless, yellow-golden, to red, brown, and green.
FURTHER INFORMATION:
Gemtree Caravan Park- Caravan site: from $24 a night; Cabins from $70 a night; Tours from $70 a couple; Jewellery from $160. For more information call:
08 8956 9855 bookings essential. Prices correct at 5.7.07 Prices include taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply.
