|
Showing 1 - 2 of
2 matches in All Departments
Emerald-green hiddenite, a gem so valuable that it is said "a June
bug can carry away $1,000 worth," is only found in one area of
North America: Alexander County, North Carolina. Now known as the
village of Hiddenite, the area has continuously produced gems of
great beauty since 1875, including the largest natural emerald and
the largest faceted emerald in North America. The beauty of the
area's free-standing minerals of emerald green beryl and spodumene,
as well as amethyst, smoky quartz, calcite, and rutile have
attracted collectors, adventurers, and miners since their
discovery. The search for emeralds and other gemstones over more
than 100 years has generated true drama: controversies about
mineral names, who discovered what, tragic fatal accidents, and
physical strife between individuals. This book reveals the whole
story. Alongside the fascinating history of the area, it includes
detailed information about the geology of the region, and will be
of interest to the historian, mineral enthusiast, and the curious
reader alike.
What are the Brown Mountain Lights? Geologist Ed Speer investigates
North Carolina's most famous ghost story-the 120-year-old legend of
mysterious nighttime lights reportedly seen on or near Brown
Mountain in Burke County. Speer's three-year study involved the
help of dozens of individuals, comprehensive literature review, two
remotely-controlled cameras operating all night long, multiple
carefully-staged light tests, telephoto- and telescope-assisted
photography, and countless hours of personal observation and ground
search for the elusive lights. Both manmade and natural lights were
identified, including some highly unexpected ones; however,
history, science, and human nature were each found to play major
roles in the understanding and interpretation of the lights people
see. Researchers, investigators, historians, story tellers, local
residents, believers in the legend, and those observers seeking
more information about the lights they have seen will find this
book useful. As will those who just enjoy a good mystery story.
Visit either of the two most-popular observation sites (identified
in the book and readily accessible on public land) and maybe you
too will catch a glimpse of a mystery light!
|
|