The location is best seen with binoculars and is between the two southern-most peaks.
We can identify the site because of the extensive mining activity that took place there in the last 50 years. The location of the amethyst mine is at one of the most remote and rugged parts of the Mazatals. Gold and silver were the only objectives of most prospectors in those days so the site was merely noted and left untouched. Instead he found the canyon floor littered with purple crystals. He was following a quartz “float,” usually a good precursor to gold. It is known that a prospector named Jim McDaniels did rediscover the deposit in about 1900. They therefore named this beautiful purple quartz with a combination of the Greek words for “not” and “to intoxicate.” In addition to these legendary powers, it is also the birthstone for February and is associated with the astrological sign of Aquarius. The ancient Greeks believed that if they drank wine from a cup carved from amethyst they would not become intoxicated. Spanish history reportedly shows the discovery of a Four Peaks Iode in the 18th century and significant shipments of these gems to the homeland where they found their way into crown jewels of five countries. Purple was the emblem of rank or authority and the color most often associated with European monarchs. It also has supplied us, and the world, with tangible purple treasures - high quality amethyst crystals.įor centuries, amethyst has been considered the royal gem because of its color. Now, after many years of inactivity, the mine is being worked and we will again see these flights.įour Peaks provides us with wondrous sunset displays of lilac, violet, and purple hues. Only a few knew that they were servicing one of the most unique gem mines in the world.
#4peaks star meaning professional#
Read on and discover his in-depth analysis of this site, and consider yourself a professional in local lore and knowledge of the Four Peaks!ĭuring the early days of Fountain Hills’ development, local residents often saw helicopters heading to Four Peaks. Digging even deeper, he visited the mine himself, interviewing past and present mine owners and people involved with the extraction of this local treasure. From legends that Natives in the area told to explain the unusual landmark, to histories from colonial days, he has collected information about this special site. In addition to this extended article, Mason has authored multiple books on local history. No stranger to adventure, Mason is a Vietnam veteran who used his personal experiences to relate to the historical tales around him. The only way to legally reach the summit is by foot, or by air.īob Mason, an author based in Arizona, took it upon himself to dig deep into the history of these mountains. If you see a helicopter flying to the Four Peaks, it is likely headed to the mine! Surrounded by dangerous and un-disturbed terrain, the mine sits within protected Four Peaks Wilderness, meaning no motor vehicles or power equipment is allowed within its confines. If you’re up for a challenge, it is possible to hike up the mine and peek at this small operation, but generally only expert hikers can make the trek with ease. Black bears, coyotes, and countless other kinds of wildlife call the Four Peaks their home, making each visit an exciting and unpredictable peek at the untouched land of Arizona.Ī lesser known fact, though, is that the Four Peaks is also home to some of the highest quality Amethyst in the world! That’s right, a mere 50 miles outside of metro Phoenix lies the only commercially-run amethyst mine in the entire United States. Brown’s Peak, the highest peak of the four, is even considered one of the most challenging hikes in Maricopa County. From the legendary hiking to amazing scenic views, it’s no wonder that so many people are drawn to this natural attraction.
Part of the Mazatzal Mountains, the Four Peaks are a popular destination in the Tonto National Forest. The four summits seem to appear from nowhere in an otherwise fairly flat range of mountains.
Whether you’ve grown up here or are just visiting, it’s easy to dream up fantastic events and reasonings behind the creation of this unusual landmark. When you look to the Eastern skyline of the valley, the Four Peaks are the most distinctive and prominent landmark.
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