Amethystwelt Maissau, Gemstone attraction in Maissau, Austria.
Amethystwelt Maissau is a mining site where a 40-meter-wide vein of purple quartz is exposed below the surface. A visitor building displays various minerals and explains how these stones form and are extracted.
The first amethyst veins were discovered here around 150 years ago, revealing one of Europe's major deposits. Mining and stone processing shaped how the area developed.
The name comes from the purple gemstone that occurs here in abundance and has shaped the area's identity. Visitors experience the role of these minerals in the region through displays and the surrounding landscape.
The site is best visited on warm, dry days since the underground areas are cool and damp. Wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore the different exhibition areas.
Visitors can dig for amethysts in a designated field and take home stones they find. A craftsperson works on-site cutting and polishing crystals, showing how raw stones become shiny gems.
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