Locals of the region are well aware that quartz is an abundant part of the geological footprint. In particular the community of Pearl is known internationally as an incredible place for lush, rich deposits of Amethyst.
“There has always been a huge interest in the amethyst mine and people visit from all over the world. Collecting and seeing what you can find on your own is what most guests like to do.”
Carol (Noyes) Fayle has grown up with the first hand experience of working, owning and operating the mine;
“My grandfather Gunnard Noyes founded Diamond Willow Amethyst Mine. He lived right in the community of Pearl where it is located. The name Diamond Willow was given because it is a tree that is abundant in the area of the mine.”
The family has operated the mine since the late 1960s, and it continues to flourish through the generations. “I grew up washing rocks working for my dad Doug Noyes and my grandfather Gunnard Noyes, it still consumes many of my days. We have hired help for the shops and cleaning rocks and all store duties but we continue to all the work in the pit ourselves. Brandon Leroux (co-owner) does all the drilling and blasting and operates the heavy equipment and we both dig. Once in a while our oldest son Tyler helps with the digging as well. It is always great when he has time to come out. He was always very successful when he’s digging.”
First-timers learn the ropes quickly and regulars know; a plain looking clay covered stone could be a gleaming piece of Amethyst or other colourful quartz. A quick rinse and scrub at a nearby washing station could uncover incredible treasure.
“We laugh when some decline a picking pail and run back to shop for one later saying I have a whole pile down there it’s addicting. Sometimes people who are flying love to fill a bucket just for the fun of the experience and will choose their favourites to take home.”
When at the mine site, the prices depend on how much you choose to take home. Upon arrival: head to the Rock Shop and pick up a pail. Guests then make their way through the picking areas fill the bucket as much as they like. If they only fill a portion of the pail it will be prorated. A full pail is $30 and tonnes of fun for everyone.
Diamond Willow offers an inviting space with picnic area and free visitor parking. Enjoy their newly expanded gift shop full of gorgeous cleaned pieces, directly from the family mine.
“Others just want a small souvenir from the shop. The amethyst trees and inukshuks are very popular and many just want a beautiful display piece or garden rock. We have a huge selection in the shop for those who don’t want to go searching on their own.”
The popularity of the mine has grown and the expansions have continued. Not only have they expanded the gift shop on site, but they will also be opening a second retail store.
“This year we are opening a second store at 1096 Hwy 587. This is on the way to sleeping giant provincial park. It will be open evenings - 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. for those who don’t make it to the mine by 5, or want to avoid the dirt roads. This way visitors can still buy directly from the mine without going there if they don’t have time. We are calling it Amethyst Country Rock and Gift Shop by Diamond Willow Mine. We are also bringing in some other minerals and related crafts to our shops as well.”
Diamond Willow Mine will be open by mid-May. Located in on Road 5 in Pearl.
Check out their excellent website for more information and updates: www.diamondwillowamethyst.com
