Lake Superior and Thunder Bay Attractions
Amethyst © Zopilote0
Amethyst Mine
Ontario’s official gemstone, amethyst, is one of the many
natural resources found on the north shore of Lake Superior. The
coloured crystalline silica mineral quartz found in this area comes
in beautiful shades, like Precious Purple and Thunder Bay Lavender.
Visitors can mine their own amethyst at the Panorama Mine, 35 miles
(56km) east of Thunder Bay, which is the site of the largest
deposit of amethyst in north America, discovered in 1955. The mine
currently produces 40 percent useable amethyst by volume and
has a large digging area open to the public that contains 20
percent useable amethyst. All one needs is a bucket and spade
to enjoy a mining experience.
Address: East Loon Road;
E-mail: info@amethystmine.com;
Website: www.amethystmine.com;
Telephone: (807) 622 6908 (Amethyst Gift Centre);
Opening time: Daily between 15 May and 15 October from 10am to 5pm (until 7pm in July and August);
Admission: C$6
