Learn about Ontario’s official gem stone, the beautifully purple amethyst when you visit this site. The Amethyst Mine Panorama is the largest amethyst deposit in Canada. But did you know that amethyst can be brown, purple and red, all a result of iron that leached from mudstone as the semi-precious stones formed millions of years ago?

This mine was discovered in 1950 as a result of a road being built to the forest fire lookout tower) this is visible from the mine sight). Amethyst production started in 1960 and the mine has produced continuously since then.

The mine produces 40% useable amethyst by volume. A large digging area, open to the public, contains 20% useable amethyst and is the main source of "pick your own" amethysts. Your family will love the challenge of finding that perfect amethyst stone in the “pick your own” area.

With pails, digging tools and running water provided to you, and amethyst readily available, digging is safe and easy. Amethyst from the digging area is priced at $3 per pound. Garden stone and larger pieces are priced individually. Hammers are not allowed. It costs $3 per person to enter the mine, making it a very affordable entertainment – and learning – option for families.

The Amethyst Mine is located 35 miles northeast of the city, off Highway 11/17 on East Loon Road. If you don’t want to travel outside of Thunder Bay, go to the Amethyst Centre at 400 Victoria Avenue East. Here you’ll find a full lapidary shop and gem-cutting operating. The retail shop has a variety of unique gifts and jewelry made from amethyst. Tours are available here too.