LITTLE FALLS, NY — Tucked into the rugged hills of Little Falls, the Russell Family Mine has emerged as a sparkling destination for rockhounds, families, and adventurers seeking the thrill of unearthing “Herkimer diamonds” and other rare crystals.
What began as a personal passion for owners Bob and Wendy Russell has blossomed into a shared experience, drawing visitors from across the country to this unique mountainside operation.
Reminder: “Herkimer Diamond” is actually doubly terminated Rock Crystal Quartz, found in and around Herkimer, New York.
From the Daily Post
from The Daily Post
Celebrating their 20th year in the community, the Russells have opened their property to the public, offering a chance to dig for treasures while forging connections with the land and each other.
“It all started on this mountainside,” Wendy Russell recalled, her voice warm with nostalgia. “Bob and I met digging crystals on the ledge. He’s from Buffalo, I was living up north, and 24 years ago, we ended up here. Little Falls felt special from the beginning—the grass was greener, the sky bluer.
Bob proposed to me on the crystal ledge, and it’s been our home ever since.”
The Russells’ journey to opening the mine to the public was as much about love for the land as it was about sharing their passion for crystals.
After settling in Little Falls, they purchased their property through a serendipitous connection—friends of Wendy’s regulars at the restaurant where she worked. Over the years, they raised two children, Bobby and Rosalie, and became active members of the community, contributing through work and school. But the mountain always called.
“This place is special,” Wendy said. “We wanted to share it. It’s not just about the crystals—it’s about slowing down, connecting, and working for the reward. You have to hike to get up here, and that effort makes it meaningful.”
To make the mine accessible, the Russells spent the past year transforming a narrow deer path into a safer, wider trail. “It was a big step,” Wendy noted. “Before, it was a tough climb. Now, guests can get to the mountaintop more easily, but it’s still enough of a hike that you feel you’ve earned it.”
The mine, which officially opened to the public three weeks ago, has already attracted a diverse crowd, from seasoned rockhounds to curious newcomers.
Tap here to read the full feature… a very heartwarming story of the Russells
and their ‘Diamond Mine’ in the Little Falls Daily Post!
Little Falls, New York—once home to the famed Chickering’s Restaurant, now home to Russell’s ‘diamond mine.’
Cooperstown, New York—home of Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame.
Albany, New York—capital of New York State.
