The discovery of gold in the Ivalojoki River in 1868 started the first gold fever in Lapland. Ivalojoki belongs to one of the best-preserved historical gold sites from the early part of the 20th century. Even though the recorded gold history of Finland does not compete with other parts of the world, the gold found in Lapland had a significant local impact. Nowadays gold mining is an economically industrial activity, and gold tourism is gaining increasing popularity, thanks to some persistent and knowledgeable pioneers.

   The methods used for hundreds of years are still used side by side with modern technology, and the legends live on. This you can experience yourself, for instance on the Laanila Gold trail which gives you a taste of how gold was prospected in the old days. 

But the traditions still go strong. Don’t be surprised at the number of real enthusiasts in search of gold at their claims. You might want to ask for some tips about where and how to find your own nuggets – just don’t expect to get very elaborate answers. 

Those who want to get more insight into the world of gold should pay a visit to the Tankavaara Gold Village. Unique even by international standards, the Museum of the village depicts the colourful history of gold panning and prospecting. Here you have a chance to learn the skill of finding some golden flakes among the gravel on your gold pan. Just remember that all that glitters is not gold.

   If you are looking for a real challenge, take part in the Goldpanning Finnish Open which has been held in Tankavaara ever since 1974. The goal of the competition is to find the tiny golden chips hidden in the sand bucket by using the washing pan as fast as possible. Every lost chip adds a penalty of five minutes to the final time. The next step is of course the World Championships…
Amethyst opens your senses

If you fail to pan gold, there’s another precious stone which you will find with a 100 percent guarantee.

Amethysts can be easily found on the surface of the Lampivaara fell. They started to crystallize deep inside the earth as early as 2,000 million years ago. Due to enormous differences in temperatures and several glacial periods, the bright-coloured amethysts with shades ranging from light purple to dark violet finally reached the surface after the last ice age about 10,000 years ago.

However, it was not until in 1985 when the valuable mine was discovered by a passerby. Today the mine, located in the middle of the Pyhä-Luosto national park, is the only one of its kind in operation in Europe, and maybe the only gem mine in the whole world which welcomes visitors. The highlight of the mine visit is of course to dig out your own lucky stone.

Several stories and myths are associated with the amethyst. The word ‘amethyst’ derives from Greek meaning “not drunken”. According to a Greek mythology, the amethyst helps to get rid of dependencies. Carrying an amethyst is believed to make you more relaxed and self-confident. It also reduces headache and helps you to get better sleep. A perfect relief to our stressful lives!
What’s more, the amethyst is the stone of love and friendship. The positive influence of the stone is said to enhance true friendships and even fertility. 

And no matter how your treasure hunt turns out, at least you’ll be enriched by the mythical Lappish atmosphere.

Further info:
www.tankavaara.fi
www.kultamuseo.fi
www.amethystmine.fi