Emerald of the Alpes

Emeralds of the Alpes

Habachtal is a beautiful valley, in summer and winter. It is a national park though fossicking is permitted. Most collectors venture to the 1800 m above sea level located emerald mine which is still in operation during the hot summer months by the Steiner family. Some fossickers have found magnificent pieces over the years, especially from the Leckbachrinne and the tailings below the mine. Even if you don't find anything you can still enjoy the beauty of the mountains and the very clean air.

There is some interesting reading below:

www.realgems.org/list_of_gemstones/emerald_info.html

www.mindat.org/loc-8282.html

www.strahlen.org/

www.mineralien-steiner.at/start.htm

www.lapis.de/shop/de/Lapis/extraLapis-English