Treasure Quest Mining

The idea for Treasure Quest Mining sprung out of our passion for spending time with our son and embarking on a true treasure hunt together. When we're not working, you'll often find us metal detecting, searching for fossils along the coast, or digging for gems in the mountains. We cherish those times spent on family vacations gem-hunting in the North Carolina mountains or searching for shells and sharks' teeth at the beach. So much so, that we decided to bring that experience closer to home for kids and their families to enjoy.

In 2016, we opened Treasure Quest Mining as a mobile gem mining experience. Shortly after launching the gem mining aspect of our business, we expanded to include a prehistoric gift shop. And in June of 2018, we opened a brick-and-mortar location in Apex, North Carolina. We are a family-run, mom-and-pop, business in the truest sense. Whether it be traveling across the country to source our rocks and fossils, hand-preparing the mining rough mixtures, or running the busy storefront, the three of us are in this together. And we love it! We've definitely made this a family affair and even our two dogs, Sophie and Ruby, join in on the adventure.

We are often asked, "how did you get into this?" And our simple answer always is "we are the parents of a really cool kid." Sharing time together treasure hunting has sparked a passion in us all. We take great care and have deep pride in curating an incredible collection of authentic gems, minerals, crystals, and fossils. We are passionate about sharing our knowledge and expertise with our customers, as we want to inspire the same excitement and curiosity in them that we have for the earth's treasures.

Our Treasure Quest: Gem Mining Experience

Visit the area's only all-indoor gem mining experience. Available in 3 mixes, each hand-assembled bucket provides you with the highest quality experience available. Explore our bucket sizing and prices to plan your visit. We do not require or offer reservations, simply stop in to play. Open 5 days a week, Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm.

Our state-of-the-art, custom-engineered trailer takes gem mining to the next level! Perfect for large-scale events and group gatherings. Book us for your next: In-house School Field Trip, Summer Camp, or Track-out Camp, School or Non-profit Fundraiser Event. Note: The mobile mining experience is not available for birthday parties.

Crystals, Fossils & Gifts: Shop

Explore the area's largest selection of authentic crystals, gems, minerals, gemstone jewelry, fossil specimens, metaphysical supplies, dinosaur-themed toys & unique home decor treasures. Visit our Gift Shop in person or shop online via Etsy.

We invite you to experience the youthful joy of a Treasure Quest. You will dig it!