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Discover the Black Hills Gold Factory Tour in South Dakota

The Black Hills Gold Factory Tour in Rapid City, SD, gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at one of the region’s most iconic crafts: hand-made Black Hills Gold jewelry. Known for its distinctive tri-color designs of green, pink, and yellow gold leaves and grape clusters, Black Hills Gold has been a South Dakota tradition for more than a century.

On the guided tour, you’ll walk through the workshop where skilled artisans create each piece by hand. Watch demonstrations of gold casting, soldering, and polishing, and see how delicate leaf and vine patterns are shaped and applied. Visitors can also explore the showroom and purchase exclusive designs direct from the factory.

Why it’s special:
Unlike machine-driven mass production, every Black Hills Gold piece is handcrafted using techniques passed down through generations. Touring the factory is both an educational experience and a chance to witness artistry in action, combining jewelry design with regional history.

History/Story of Black Hills Gold

Black Hills Gold jewelry dates back to the mid-1870s, when a French goldsmith, Henri LeBeau, settled in the Black Hills during the Gold Rush. Inspired by the natural beauty of the region, he created a signature style featuring pink, green, and yellow gold leaves.

The tradition has been carried forward by South Dakota artisans ever since. Today, the Rapid City factory preserves these handcrafting techniques while adapting to modern styles, making each piece a blend of history, artistry, and regional identity.

What You’ll See & Do on the Black Hills Gold Factory Tour

Watch artisans pour molten gold into molds for casting.
See skilled jewelers shape, solder, and polish gold pieces.
Learn how pink and green gold alloys are created.
Observe artisans applying delicate grape leaf and vine motifs.
Explore the factory showroom with hundreds of exclusive designs.

Hands-On Elements: Up-close viewing of artisans at work, opportunities to ask questions, and hands-on examination of unfinished pieces (with guidance).

Photo/Video Policy: Photography permitted in showroom and visitor areas; may be restricted in active workshop zones.

Souvenirs & Extras:

Factory showroom with exclusive jewelry, watches, and custom designs
Gift shop with South Dakota keepsakes and Black Hills Gold collectibles

Pricing of Black Hills Gold Factory Tour

Admission: Free
Tours offered daily

Practical Info for Visiting Black Hills Gold Factory

Duration: ~30–45 minutes
Format: Guided walking tour through the jewelry workshop + showroom visit
Schedule & Seasonality: Open year-round; tours daily (Mon–Sat 9 AM–5 PM; limited Sunday hours)
Audience: Families, school groups, jewelry lovers, tourists in the Black Hills region
Accessibility: Visitor areas wheelchair accessible; workshop walkways narrow in places
Safety & Restrictions:

Visitors must stay in designated areas
Children welcome but must be supervised

Languages: English; printed guides may be available in other languages
Group & School Visits: Group tours available with advance notice

What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable walking shoes, interest in jewelry and craftsmanship
Facilities: Showroom, restrooms, free parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed on major holidays

Location & Booking

Getting There: Located in Rapid City along Mt. Rushmore Road; free parking onsite
Booking: No booking required for standard tours; group reservations recommended
Cancellation & Refunds: Not applicable (free admission)
On-Site Extras: Showroom, gift shop, custom jewelry services