A Historic California Gem Mine
The Little Three Mine, located in Ramona, California, has a history stretching back to 1902. According to local legend, three men searching for a lost cow discovered gemstones scattered across the ground, eventually purchasing the land and giving the mine its name.
Over the decades, the Little Three Mine became known for producing exceptional blue topaz, orange spessartine garnet, tourmaline, quartz, and other notable minerals. Specimens from the mine have earned recognition beyond Southern California, including representation at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
A New Chapter
In 2022, the Gregory Family acquired the Little Three Mine from the Spaulding family with the goal of honoring its legacy while thoughtfully bringing new life to the property.
Today, the mine is once again active, with a focus on artisanal mining practices, ethically sourced material, and responsible stewardship of the land and its mineral history.
From Mine to Jewelry
Select gemstones from Little Three are transformed into timeless jewelry designed to celebrate their natural origin.
Rather than separating the finished piece from the stone’s history, we believe provenance is part of what makes jewelry meaningful. Our collections bring together natural beauty, thoughtful craftsmanship, and the rare opportunity to wear a gemstone connected directly to a historic California mine.
Preserving the Past, Unearthing the Future
Every specimen recovered from Little Three carries a connection to more than a century of mining history.
Our work is centered on preserving that story through the careful recovery of newly mined material and historic-quality specimens. From remarkable collector pieces to naturally formed crystals, each discovery adds another chapter to the mine’s ongoing legacy.
We approach every find with the belief that these materials should be respected, documented, and preserved for future generations.
Experience the Mine
Little Three is more than a source of gemstones. It is a place to experience the excitement of discovery firsthand.
Through mining experiences, ore bags, mineral exploration, and hands-on learning, visitors can engage with the geology, history, and process behind the specimens themselves.
Whether someone is an experienced collector, a lifelong rockhound, a student, or discovering minerals for the first time, our goal is to make the world beneath the surface feel tangible, memorable, and exciting.
Education & Stewardship
Education is an important part of preserving the future of Little Three.
By sharing the mine’s history, geology, mineral formations, and active mining process, we hope to encourage a deeper understanding of the natural world and the craftsmanship involved in bringing responsibly sourced gemstones from the earth to collection.
Our mission is to continue ethically sourcing remarkable minerals through artisanal mining, preserving historic specimens, creating enduring jewelry, welcoming visitors into the mining experience, and inspiring greater appreciation for earth science and mineral heritage.
More than a mine, Little Three is a living piece of California history—still being discovered.
