Many emerald hunters bring their own shovels and sacks.

After filling the bags with as much earth as they can carry, they haul the bags down to a nearby stream and filter through the findings to see if any emeralds are hidden inside.

Several guaquero associations have been authorized by Esmeraldas Mining Services to help coordinate logistics.

The enclosure remains open for about four hours at a time and by the end, many return home empty-handed more often than not.

"The mining causes a very delicate problem," said Ximena Castaneda, the mayor of Muzo.

"And it's that folks come with the expectation they will be millionaires one day.

"Some arrive and make money, while others never do," she continued.

Those who can eke out a living get by on the luck of the draw.

"I have been in the mines here for 30 years and emeralds have come out … but every day it's getting more difficult," said Gilberto Cifuentes, 54.