Colorado VIP Field Trip for Amazonite and Topaz, with the Dorris family

Item Description

Since the late 1870s, the Crystal Peak District in Colorado has produced the world’s finest amazonite and smoky quartz specimens. Recent mining has seen some remarkable new finds from the district that many had deemed nearly exhausted. The Dorris family's efforts since the early 90s to use mechanized equipment and new techniques to mine the deeper pegmatite structures which had never been tapped have opened new ground for treasure hunters here (this is the same locality, and the Dorrises, as seen on Prospectors TV show!). This excursion includes a full day of collecting for you and your family (up to 4 people) with the Dorris Family at their famous mining claim, during their summer or fall digs. These are the famous localities you've seen over many seasons on the Prospectors TV show! This experience will take you to either/both localities for Amazonite, Smoky Quartz, and Topaz, based on current mining conditions where they think you’ll have the most action! The Dorris family has arguably produced the finest amazonites in history, and are the world experts in mining and preparing specimens of this material. NOBODY goes home disappointed. (As a guide, at our past live online auction charity events, this trip has fetched $5000-8500 and reliably made for happy bidders. You WILL have fun and you WILL find crystals in this famous mine!).

Keep up to $2500 (retail value) in found specimens, with the opportunity to purchase additional found specimens at fair prices. Note: Pockets often have to be reassembled, so some pieces might be unavailable to take home. Travel costs are not included. This trip is good for 2 to 4 people, during 2024-25. Trip value $5000. Donated by Pinnacle 5 Minerals/The Dorris Family. Winners responsible for their own travel costs, although it is very easy to get to Colorado Springs via flight or car.

This trip is part of the 2024 Dallas Mineral Collecting Symposium benefit auction, with proceeds benefiting Mineralogical Record, Rocks & Minerals, Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, and mindat.org. Thanks to all of our participants!

Billing for this auction will occur on Monday, August 19th, for payment using PayPal or a credit card.