Short story about mining and eggs?

[Jack]

I recall a short story I read in a children's magazine in the mid-late 90's. From what I remember it was science fiction (accompanied by brightly colored illustrations) and had something to do with the society mining from a cave with lots of gems, but they were actually eggs that only hatched at certain times.

[Kate]

Jack, you can bump this thread every month or so to keep it near the top of the Unsolved folder. That way more people will see it and possibly recognize your book!

What age was the magazine intended for?

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

Jack, are you still looking for this or did you find it?

[SamSpayedPI]

There was a photo novel of the Star Trek episode The Devil in the Dark, which has a similar plot.