Sapphire Gems, QUEENSLAND
Airing Date: Jul 17th, 2006
Emerald, Rubyvale, Sapphire - the names say it all. Queensland's Capricorn Region is home to some of the most amazing gemfields in the Southern Hemisphere.
The gem fields have been mined since 1875 when a railway surveyor found red zircons at Retreat Creek and thought they were rubies, which is how Rubyvale got its name.
Their current popularity, however, began with an influx of people in the late 1960's who were seeking an alternative lifestyle. Many of them found it, and remained to redevelop the town.
The lure of great riches, just there for the taking, draws many thousands of people to the gem fields every year. It is still possible for anyone to find a gem worth tens of thousands of dollars, but even if you leave empty handed, the sheer fun of trying makes the whole trip worthwhile!
At Miners Heritage you can explore the world of sapphires, gem-cutting and fossicking. A 30 minute tour of the mine allows visitors to observe the manufacturing process.
The mine is located one and a half kilometres from Rubyvale, west of Emerald and is Australia's largest walk-in tourist mine. Miners Heritage has an underground jewellery showroom and gem-cutting exhibition.
Renovated from one of the town's original houses built circa 1914, the Rubyvale Gem Gallery is now home to one of the most spectacular collections of Australian sapphires. The showroom displays sapphires mined and cut by Peter, who is also recognised as one of the best gem cutters on the gem fields today.
Since finding his first sapphire 25 years ago, mining, gem-cutting, and jewellery making have become part of Peters life long passion. The New Royal Hotel, Rubyvale Tavern at the gem fields is a sight for sore eyes.
As well as the compulsory cold beer they offer superb meals and takeaways, drive thru bottle shop, wines and spirits. Stop off on your way home from an exciting day on the gem fields and show off your find or purchase that special item.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Tourism QLD - www.tq.com.au
For Further Information on Queensland - Lonely Planet Guides: www.lonelyplanet.com.au
