Foggy Mountain Gem Mine was founded by Dana Morace. A native of High Point, North Carolina, Dana moved to Watauga County in 1976.
Dana discovered the art of lapidary (turning stones into gems) and thus found her true calling. Her love for lapidary inspired Dana to build a gem mining business offering an interesting, fun, and positive family adventure. Over the past 35 years, she has built a successful business by sharing her passion and providing a great experience to people who come from all over the world. The business has become generational as her son Nik Vames and his wife , now oversee the operation, and continues to grow the business by providing the same professional and personal service started by his mother. Today the family and staff continue to provide the finest colored gemstones from around the world. Emeralds, rubies, sapphires, tourmalines, garnets, amethyst, citrine and much more are guaranteed in each bucket of ore they sell. Once you find your rough, precious stones, they can cut them for you, making gems and jewelry for you that can be priceless heirlooms for your family to cherish for generations.
