Mica – North Carolina’s Unbelievable Magical Mineral

A mineral found in North Carolina that is essential to making specialized glass will be the topic of a free program hosted by the Western Office of the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Mica, which has been mined in western North Carolina for centuries, was used to make windows for early coal- and wood-burning stoves, along with more modern uses including radio vacuum tubes.

Learn about the characteristics and formation of this unique mineral during a free program led by featured speaker Alexander (Alex) S. Glover Jr., PG, CPG, a professional geologist, and the recognized authority on the Spruce Pine Mining District. The program will occur on Tuesday, Sept. 5 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Western Office of the N. C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, 176 Riceville Rd., Asheville.

The presentation also will discuss Native American mica mining and early mines, especially those found in the Mitchell County, N.C. area. Attendees will learn how mica’s unique mineral morphology is still used today to make many everyday consumer goods. Mineral samples and mica-incorporated items will be available to inspect.

To reserve a spot, contact Jeff Futch at (828) 250-3105 or email jeff.futch@ncdcr.gov. Learn more at https://www.ncdcr.gov/about/history/western-office.

The exhibit “Waking Rip Van Winkle: Gold, Mineral & Gem Mining in Western North Carolina” will be open and on display before and after the program.

About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.

The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the North Carolina Zoo, the North Carolina Symphony, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. For more information, please visit www.ncdcr.gov.