Journey Into the Heart of Tasmanian Gemstones

As dawn unveils its first light over Tasmania's weld River in the northeast of Tasmania,the world seems to stand still beneath a pristine, frost-covered canopy. The melody of birdsong welcomes the day, setting the stage for a soul-stirring adventure into the heart of Tasmanian gemstones.

Igniting a small campfire, the morning air dances with the wisdom passed down by my grandfather, urging me to leave no footprint, to preserve this sacred place untouched. His words echo like a gentle breeze, “The bigger the fire, the bigger the fool” reminding me of the delicate balance between exploration and reverence.

A sip of morning coffee warms my hands as I pack a knapsack with sieves, shovels, and a pick. Clad in waterproof waders, I embark on a journey along the ancient Chinese tin miners' tracks, etched into the landscape since the 1880s. Walking in their footsteps, I traverse the untamed beauty of the bush meets rainforest, a privilege that resonates with the scenic allure of the untouched wilderness.

Navigating the river, I seek bends and obstacles beneath its crystal-clear surface, where the heavier gemstones rest. The water, frigid as ice, envelopes me, stealing my breath until I adjust to its cold embrace. Boulders beneath waterfalls hide treasures – black spinel, or blackjack, as we fondly call it, along with royal blue sapphires and vibrant Zircons untouched by human hands.

The day unfolds with pauses for contemplative tea breaks, allowing the beauty of nature to seep into my soul. Even when gemstones elude discovery, the tranquility of the river clears the mind, revealing a peaceful sanctuary within.

In the remotest corners, fellow fossickers emerge, kindred spirits in pursuit of the perfect gemstone. Tasmanians, bound by a deep love for the outdoors, share secrets of favored spots, forming bonds that transcend the quest for precious gemstones. Friendships bloom, and new horizons open through mutual respect and a shared passion for these geological treasures.

My 65-year-old mother and 89-year-old grandfather join in this shared passion. Together, we celebrate moments, big or small, crafting memories on the river that transcend the mere value of the gemstones found.

As the day wanes, we gather around the campfire, unveiling the day's discoveries. A guessing game ensues, attempting to fathom the weight of each gemstone. These moments, priceless and irreplaceable, weave into the fabric of cherished memories.

Examining the riverbed treasures, we appreciate their cutting potential before embarking on the art of faceting. Each gemstone, transformed into a masterpiece, carries the essence of its natural surroundings. These treasures become a bridge between the past, formed within the Earth, the present, as they grace private collections worldwide, and the future, passed down as heirlooms, echoing the days gone by.

This is not just a day on the river; it's a journey into the heart of Tasmanian gemstones. May it bring you closer to the treasures you acquire from us at Splendid Specimens, where every gemstone tells a tale, weaving a beautiful history and origin that resonates through time.