These "diamonds" crystallized in a configuration of a double-terminated clear crystal. They are extremely difficult to mine as the matrix (mother stone) is very difficult to get through.

My husband Jeff has mined these himself. The only picture to come to mind is the old pictures of the chain gangs, with sledge hammers, busting up rock. You look for a vein in the mother stone, start working on this with a pick and a hammer and if you're fortunate when you break it open they'll be a Herkimer sitting inside for you.

There are other stones being called Herkimer Diamonds from other countries. The Amethyst Herkimer is found in Mexico, and Tanzania. There are Herkimer's from Mexico and Spain that are rutilated. To the best of my knowledge the only clear Herkimer's are coming from upstate New York. Once or twice a year we take the ride to go mining.

These stones are very difficult to set, because of the shape. But once set they are magnificent