Another of Pauma’s buried treasures can be found in the hills here. Literally. If you don’t believe it, just ask Jeff Swanger, who began as a gem prospector in these parts in the mid-1980s and now runs the only remaining legal gem-mining business in the famous Pala Gem District.
“I’d read a lot about history of the mines, and I’m an adventurous guy. I just decided that was for me,” explains Swanger, owner and CEO of Oceanview Mine LLC. “I went out and did my own prospecting, talked to the old-timers in the area, learned the trade, and purchased the mines.”
The world-famous mines on these local mountains actually began operating more than a century ago, and at one time there were more than 70.
Oceanview Mine, located on Chief Mountain in Pala Valley, which is just adjacent to Pauma Valley, is frequented by gem experts from across the globe. And San Diegans are catching on.
The company actually includes the Oceanview Mine itself as well as the Elizabeth R and Pala Chief mines, all on Chief Mountain. Swanger has 12 employees digging for and finding rare gems.
The mine is also a safe and fun place to visit for gem enthusiasts and anyone who wants to see a working gem mine and try their hand. You can search for gems, and you might find tourmalines, morganites, kunzites, and more. Plus, you get to keep everything you find.
Swanger, who welcomes visitors, clearly loves his work. “It’s a beautiful mountaintop,” he says. “When I’m working I feel like I’m on top of the world. I have a view all the way to the ocean on a clear day.”
Pauma Valley’s Other Hidden Gem
Jeff Swanger
