Natural Bridge Mining Company February 19, 2011

A sluice is a series of troughs leading from a water-filled wooden tower. As the water runs through the troughs, bags of mining "rough" are emptied and sifted through screen trays. The water washes away the dirt, revealing sparkling gems and minerals or even fossils and arrowheads. It's like panning for gold, plus you get to pocket whatever you find! After discovering your gems and minerals, use the identification charts to accurately identify exactly what you have found.