Everything You Need to Know: DIG DAY
We’re so excited you’re joining us for a truly unique rockhounding adventure at The Pleiades Mine! Owned and operated by Vince & Michelle Dyer and Michael ODonnell, this family-run experience lets you dig for rare opalized fluorite found almost nowhere else on Earth. Below is everything you need to know to have a safe, fun, and rewarding day.
DAY-OF MORNING MEETING SPOT:
Guests will be met by one of the partners (usually Vince) in the parking lot of Champ's Gas Station located at 16 Main Street, in Austin, Nevada. This is is full service gas station and a great time to pick up drinks and/or snacks, fill up your gas tank (and use the bathroom!).
SCHEDULE:
Arrival: 7:00–8:00 AM (feel free to arrive anytime in this window)
Departure for the mine: 8:00 AM sharp (we head out together)
Drive time: About 30 minutes to the dig site
Digging starts: Around 9:00 AM
Typical end time: About 2:00 PM
FUEL TIP: Make sure your vehicle has enough gas for the ~1-hour round-trip drive from Austin to the mine and back.
Walk-ins welcome? Yes! If space is available, you're welcome to show up the morning of the dig—just check with us ahead of time by calling/texting Michelle at (970) 497-6539 or email her at ThePleiadesMine@gmail.com.
Traveling to the Mine: Vehicle & Road Info
Our mine sits in a beautiful, remote mountain area north of Austin at about 7,000 feet elevation — think fresh air, big views, and true high-desert adventure!
Recommended vehicles: All-wheel drive (AWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) is strongly recommended for the rough dirt roads.
Low-clearance vehicles: They won't make it up the mountain. If that's your only option, no worries — park in the valley and we'll happily arrange a ride up for you (just contact us in advance so we can plan!).
Road access: All roads to the mine entrance are public access roads on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, which is open to the public. You're responsible for your vehicle and everyone traveling with you on these roads.
WHAT TO WEAR FOR YOUR DIG DAY
We're digging in a sunny, high-elevation desert environment at ~7,000 feet — think bright sun and possible quick weather changes!
Clothing & Sun Protection:
Dress in layers — mornings can be cool, but it warms up fast under full sun.
Wear long sleeves/pants if you prefer extra protection from sun and brush.
Closed-toe shoes are mandatory — sturdy boots or hiking shoes perfect for climbing on rock piles and uneven ground.
Don't forget sunscreen (high SPF), sunglasses, and a hat for shade!
WHAT TO BRING
ESSENTIALS:
Plenty of drinks – hydration is very important at this elevation and in the sun (no drinks provided).
Food/snacks/lunch – whatever you like (no food provided).
Your 5-gallon bucket(s) – for collecting your finds (we’ll tag them on-site).
Good gloves – to protect your hands.
Spray bottle or water – for gently cleaning specimens to reveal their colors.
Hand tools (only hand tools allowed – no power tools): rock hammer, 3-pronged garden cultivator or rake, small spade or shovel, other small digging tools (chisels, brushes, etc.)
CASH – recommended for purchasing additional buckets on-site (internet/cell service may be limited).
SAFETY & MINE RULES
A safety briefing will be held at the mine before digging begins, following MSHA safety guidelines. Guests must dig only in designated digging areas as provided by the mine. If heavy equipment (such as the excavator) is operating, all participants must move away from the area immediately.
Families & Minors: No age limit – kids of all ages are welcome! Parents or guardians must sign liability waivers for minors. Minors must be supervised at all times. If supervision becomes a safety concern, participants may be asked to leave.
Dogs: Friendly, well-behaved dogs are welcome. Keep them under control at all times.
Owners are fully responsible for their pets (clean up after them and ensure they don’t interfere with digging).
SITE RULES
No alcohol or drugs are allowed. Respect the mine property, equipment, and fellow diggers. Pack out all trash and personal belongings – leave no trace!
PRICING REMINDER
- $200 per 5-gallon bucket
- Each bucket can be shared by two adults or a family
- Additional buckets available on-site for $200 each
- All specimens must fit inside your purchased bucket(s)
- Very large or exceptional pieces that won’t fit may be priced on-site
WEATHER-RELATED CANCELLATIONS:
Tours may occasionally be canceled/postponed due to unsafe weather or road conditions. If a tour is canceled/postponed due to weather, guests may reschedule or request a refund. If you cannot attend your scheduled dig after payment, we allow rescheduling within one year of the original booking.
LIABILITY:
Mining and rockhounding involve inherent risks including uneven terrain, loose rocks, and remote mountain conditions. All participants must sign a Full Release of Liability and media release form before participating in the dig with MVM Artistic Stone Designs.
With these details covered, you’re all set for an unforgettable day digging up stunning purple, cream, and green opalized fluorite treasures!
Questions? Call or text Michelle at (970) 497-6539 or email ThePleiadesMine@gmail.com.
We look forward to digging with you!
Vince, Michelle, and Michael