The next time you are panning for gold or simply rock hounding in the Lillooet area, and you don’t find any colour in your pan, look for glitter or small red stones. Those shiny little pebbles just might be rubies or un-cut diamonds.

Since 1875, diamonds and rubies have been found in the creeks and in the old gold tailings in the Lillooet area. Although rubies have been found throughout British Columbia, this area is the only area in the province where diamonds can be found. Diamonds as large as three carats have been found, but unfortunately, they are only of industrial quality.

It is possible where poor quality stones exist, there lies the possibility of gem quality stones. All the Lillooet diamonds thus far found have occurred free in the gravels of present day and ancient stream beds. There source has yet to be found. Perhaps some lucky prospector will stumble across the actual source or mother lode.