Gemstones of the Silk Road
Gemstones of the Silk Road
For general information about gems, refer to: https://www.gia.edu/gem-encyclopedia
Mineral Commodity Summary 2017 by USGS: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/2017/mcs2017.pdf
Mineral Commodity Summary 2017 by USGS: https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/2017/mcs2017.pdf
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Afghanistan
Ministry of Mines, Kabul Afghanistan (Information rich downloadable pdf): http://mom.gov.af/Content/files/Gemstones%20of%20Afghanistan%281%29.pdf Afghan gems are principally aquamarines, emeralds, kunzite, lapis lazuli, rubies, spinels (balas rubies), and tourmaline. Emerald cities “One of the most intriguing examples of this huge unexploited wealth is Afghanistan's emerald industry. There are extraordinarily rich veins of this precious green gemstone running through the Panjshir Valley and the mountains of the Hindu Kush that lie around 150 miles northeast of the capital - stones of a quality to rival the very best available from Colombia and Zambia from where most of the world’s supply currently emanates. The Afghan emerald is renowned as the best in terms of quality…one of the most crystalline, one of the purest.” http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/peopleandpower/2014/05/afghanistan-hidden-gems-20145211098919141.html “As regards discovery, these minerals are easily identifiable in stream sediment samples and can be used to identify the location of new deposits by tracking the minerals back to their source. But gemstones occur in specific rock types that are identifiable from satellites. The very latest advances in satellite imaging mean that it is now possible to locate rocks where new deposits should be present, in areas that have not previously been explored or are difficult to reach…” http://www.gems-afghan.com/NGO8thdraft.pdf http://www.gems-afghan.com/sitemap.html “Treasured by ancient civilizations, Afghanistan is one of the oldest gem mining areas in the world; its famous lapis lazuli mines are known to have produced the stone for more than 6,000 years. Gem trading along the Silk Road came to a near halt between the 14th and 19th centuries when sea-based trade became the standard. Since the rise of globalization, the region has gained momentum once again in the international markets.” https://www.gia.edu/gia-news-press/gemstone-gathering-afghan-gem-mine Pardieu Shares Tales of Afghan Gem Exploration https://www.gia.edu/article/pardieu-shares-tales-of-afghan-gem-exploration A dark greenish-brown Andradite (a kind of garnet) comes from Marki Khel, Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan. http://www.minerals.net/mineral/andradite.aspx A beginners guide to buying gemstones in Afghanistan: https://www.gemsociety.org/article/just-ask-jeff-buying-gemstones-in-afghanistan/ Training in Jewelry and Gem Cutting in Afghanistan, The Turquoise Mountain Trust (TMT): https://jobs.ooyta.com/page/view/40599.htm |
Below is a price list for some of Afghanistan's precious gemstones sent to me by a friend in Kabul.
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Armenia
In terms of value, cut diamond is or was the country’s leading mineral export. Armenia is also rich in gold and iron.
In Armenia one may also find amethyst, obsidian, quartz, carnelian, garnet, beryl, turquoise, aquamarine, and lapis lazuli. http://www.tacentral.com/nature/natural_story.asp?story_no=5
Armenian Jewelers Foundation http://www.ajf.foundation/en/
Republic of Armenia is rich in iron, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc, gold, silver, antimony, aluminium, as well as in scarce and scattered metals enclosed therein. Among metal minerals there are 7 copper-molybdenum mines, 4 copper mines, 14 gold and gold-polymetallic mines, 2 polymetallic mine, 2 iron ore mines and 1 aluminum mine. http://www.minenergy.am/en/page/472
In terms of value, cut diamond is or was the country’s leading mineral export. Armenia is also rich in gold and iron.
In Armenia one may also find amethyst, obsidian, quartz, carnelian, garnet, beryl, turquoise, aquamarine, and lapis lazuli. http://www.tacentral.com/nature/natural_story.asp?story_no=5
Armenian Jewelers Foundation http://www.ajf.foundation/en/
Republic of Armenia is rich in iron, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc, gold, silver, antimony, aluminium, as well as in scarce and scattered metals enclosed therein. Among metal minerals there are 7 copper-molybdenum mines, 4 copper mines, 14 gold and gold-polymetallic mines, 2 polymetallic mine, 2 iron ore mines and 1 aluminum mine. http://www.minenergy.am/en/page/472
Demantoid
Garnet Crystal
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Azerbaijan
Gemstones include: garnet, amethyst, Hajicand agate deposits group is considered to be of commercial value which reserves have estimated as much as 286,8 tons. Of them 65.8 tons are referred to as jewelry gems. http://www.azerbaijan.az/portal/Nature/Geostructure/geostructure_02_e.html (Comprehensive mineral report on Azerbaijan) A valuable gem form of Andradite is the rare Demantoid, which is a transparent green variety .... and excellent dark lustrous crystals from Dashkesan, Azerbaijan. Andradite is a member of the Garnet group, and although not as well-known as other Garnets such as Almandine or Pyrope, it is still fairly abundant and can produce fine Garnet gemstones. A valuable gem form of Andradite is the rare Demantoid, which is a transparent green variety that is highly lustrous with an adamantine luster. Andradite is named in honor of José Bonifácio de Andrada e Silva (1763-1838), a Brazilian mineralogist, statesman, professor, and poet, famous for his discovery of Andradite as well as several other important minerals such as Spodumene. http://www.minerals.net/mineral/andradite.aspx |
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China
Amethyst, Aquamarine, Citrine, Diamond, Emerald, Garnet, Jade, Opal, Pearl, Peridot, Ruby, Sapphire, and Topaz. List of 135 gemstones with English and Chinese names: http://polarjade.ca/gemstone-list.html China Ministry of Land and Resources Gem Testing/Certification and Education in China National Gemstone Testing Center is the state-level and authority organization of gems & jewelry testing and inspecting, authorized by the government. It has passed the various accreditations and certifications from the state-level organizations for the quality supervision, inspection and quarantine. It is the China’s foremost authority in testing and inspection of gems and jewelry. It is also an authorized state-level organization for identifying achievements of science and technology, a testing laboratory for import and export goods, and the appointed laboratory of China Consumer’s Association. National Gemstone Testing Center (NGTC) was established and approved by China State Commission Office for Public Sector Reform in 1992, based on Mineralogy and Gemology Research Department of Geological Museum of China which was found in the middle of 1980’s. The main sub-organizations include National Gemological Training Center; Gems & Jewelry Institute; Gems and jewelry related committee, offices, and professional magazines. http://www.ngtc.com.cn/index.php?m=Page&a=index&id=69&l=en BG Gemological institute (BGGI) Founded by the former Ministry of Foreign Trade & Economic Cooperation, BG Gemological institute (BGGI) is the earliest gems research and identification laboratory in China. Early in the year 1995, BGGI had been recognized by the State Bureau of Quality and Technique Supervision, China National Accreditation Board for Laboratories, the State Bureau for Import & Export Commodity Inspection. It is also recognized by the International Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO), and is the only CIBJO Recognized Laboratory (CRL) in china. Their services include: Gems and jewelry identification and certificates, valuation, consulting, professional courses training, market information, etc. http://www.cnacgc.com/T_second_en/index.aspx?nodeid=172&page=ContentPage&contentid=795 http://www.bggi.org/ (Official Site - In Chinese only) China University of Geosciences in Beijing traces its roots to Beijing College of Geology, founded in 1952 as a result of the merger of the geological departments from Peking University, Tsinghua University, Tianjin University, and Tangshan Railway College. They have a school of gem studies. Site in Chinese and English http://www.cugb.edu.cn/index.action Asian Gemmological Institute and Laboratory Limited Asian Gemological Institute and Laboratory Limited (AGIL), is the eldest established gemmological laboratory in Hong Kong since 1983 (hereinafter called AGIL). AGIL functioning as an individual professional gemmological laboratory adhered to ''Integrity'' as its mission and persists in the jewelry trade. AGIL provides advanced gem testing services to the trade and general public. In-house advanced instruments includes: DTC DiamondSureTM; Cathodoluminescence; FTIR Infrared Spectrometer; Raman spectrometer;Sarin DiaMension; UV-Vis Spectrometer and X-ray Fluorescence Analysis. http://www.agil.com.hk/en/aboutus.php China University of Geosciences (Wuhan – Education program, must speak Chinese HSK Level 4) http://school.cucas.edu.cn/China-University-of-Geosciences--Wuhan--258/program/Gemology-31615.html http://www.palagems.com/gemology/ International Gemological Institute has schools in Shanghai and Hong Kong (Europe, the U.S. & Numerous South Asian Locations) http://www.igiworldwide.com/contact_us.html Gemological Institute of America (GIA) - Established in 1931, GIA is the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls. A public benefit, nonprofit institute, GIA is the leading source of knowledge, standards, and education in gems and jewelry. Has Hong Kong and Taipei Offices: https://www.gia.edu/ American Society of Appraisers (ASA) and Shanghai BETTER Institute of Gemology - Gems & Jewelry Appraisal Training in China http://www.appraisers.org/Disciplines/Gems-Jewelry/gj-news-and-events/2016/05/06/asa-and-shanghai-better-institute-of-gemology-to-offer-gems-jewelry-appraisal-training-in-china European Gemological Association – Asia (Located in Hong Kong): http://www.eglasia.com.hk/aboutUs.html China’s Gem market http://china-trade-research.hktdc.com/business-news/article/China-Consumer-Market/China-s-Jewellery-Market/ccm/en/1/1X000000/1X002MMK.htm “China's consumption of gemstones, both for export and the domestic market, has led to supply shortages and intense competition at mining sources and markets.” Detailed reports of China’s diamond and colored stone industries… “Dealers at the 2013 Tucson shows reported that Chinese buyers were interested in a wider variety of colored stones than in years past. Red is traditionally a popular color in China, and ruby and rubellite tourmaline (figure 32) have been popular there for many years. In fact, many trade members have attributed skyrocketing prices for those two gems to the Chinese market. When Christie’s held its first jewelry auction in mainland China in Shanghai on September 26, 2013, a ruby and diamond necklace commanded the highest bid, at $3.4 million (“Ruby necklace tops Christie’s first China auction,” 2013). Based on the authors’ observations and feedback from the industry, other red and pink gemstones such as spinel, garnet, rose quartz, and red jasper also appear to be gaining a following in China. “Gemstones in other colors are also in demand. Multicolored tourmaline jewelry is becoming more popular in response to the rising price of rubellite (“Tourmaline grips Chinese collectors,” 2013). Both blue and green tourmaline, alongside other blue gems like sapphire, aquamarine, blue topaz, and even lesser- known gems like cat’s-eye siliminate, are gaining a foothold in the Chinese market (“Blue and green gems on the rise…,” 2012). Blue to violet tanzanite has become especially popular. Recently, the large retailer Chow Tai Seng, with 2,200 stores domestically, was named a “retail polished sightholder” with TanzaniteOne (Max, 2013), which demonstrates the Chinese market’s openness to nontraditional colored stones. China’s consumers have become aware of all the gemstone choices, and more of these choices at many price points are now available to them. https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/spring-2014-lucas-chinese-gem-industry#item-2 http://china-trade-research.hktdc.com/business-news/article/China-Consumer-Market/China-s-Jewellery-Market/ccm/en/1/1X000000/1X002MMK.htm http://www.sztalent.org/content/2014-08/05/content_9942439.htm https://www.gia.edu/gia-news-research/shenzhen-china-gem-jewelry-industry Tashmarine, the Yellowish Green Diopside - The name 'Tashmarine' was trademarked by C. Gem House, a US based company, which also owns the mining rights for the only known commercial mining source located in Xinjiang, China. https://www.gemselect.com/other-info/tashmarine-diopside-gemstone.php |
Jade
Aquamarine
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Georgia (Republic of)
Gemstones in Georgia include: tuff, quips, agate, onyx, obsidian, gagat, jasper. http://www.cg.itnovations.ge/?35/Mineral%20Resources
Gemstones in Georgia include: tuff, quips, agate, onyx, obsidian, gagat, jasper. http://www.cg.itnovations.ge/?35/Mineral%20Resources
India
Gemological Institute of India http://giionline.com/
Indian Diamond and Colored Stone Association: http://idcany.org/
The Karur-Kangayam and Hole-Narsipur belts, in the southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, respectively, are famous throughout the subcontinent for their gemstones, including sapphire, moonstone, iolite, aquamarine, garnet, sunstone and corundum. The city of Karur itself is well known for rubies.
Indian Ruby mining: https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/spring-2014-gemnews-indian-ruby-mining
Gem Testing/Certification in India:
Linklist: https://www.gempundit.com/buying-guide/gem-lab-certification
GIA India: http://www.giaindia.in/
Indian Gemological Institute - Gem Testing Laboratory (IGI-GTL) https://gjepc.org/igi_delhi.php
Gemological Laboratory of India (also offers courses): http://gliindia.co.in/
IGI has international Certification laboratory in New Delhi: http://www.igiworldwide.com/
Gemological Institute of India http://giionline.com/
Indian Diamond and Colored Stone Association: http://idcany.org/
The Karur-Kangayam and Hole-Narsipur belts, in the southern Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, respectively, are famous throughout the subcontinent for their gemstones, including sapphire, moonstone, iolite, aquamarine, garnet, sunstone and corundum. The city of Karur itself is well known for rubies.
Indian Ruby mining: https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/spring-2014-gemnews-indian-ruby-mining
Gem Testing/Certification in India:
Linklist: https://www.gempundit.com/buying-guide/gem-lab-certification
GIA India: http://www.giaindia.in/
Indian Gemological Institute - Gem Testing Laboratory (IGI-GTL) https://gjepc.org/igi_delhi.php
Gemological Laboratory of India (also offers courses): http://gliindia.co.in/
IGI has international Certification laboratory in New Delhi: http://www.igiworldwide.com/
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Iran
Gem cutting has a long history in Iran: Gemcutting (ḥakkākī). The first-known reference in Persian to gem cutting is found in an anonymous treatise on jewelry, Jowhar-nāma-ye neẓāmī, written in 592/1195-96 under the last Ḵᵛārazmšāh. http://www.iranicaonline.org/articles/gem-cutting- According to the report, deposits of such stones have been found in more than 30 locations in Iran and their number is rising, the newspaper said, noting that at present, sapphire, agate, turquoise, topaz and jasper are among Iran’s main precious and semi-precious stones –https://www.albawaba.com/news/iranian-precious-stones-sector-expands Iran (Persia) is famous for the very high quality of its turquoise. (Neyshabur Mine, Khorasan Province https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/country/2010/myb3-2010-ir.pdf ) Semiprecious: Multi-color Agate Ardabil-Iran http://www.stonecontact.com/suppliers-111305/javidan-kherad-e-zarrin & Pink Onyx from Naghade- Iran http://www.stonecontact.com/iran-precious-stones Amazonite, high quality and great quantity, green and blue green (turquoise) from Zahedan – Iran https://www.go4worldbusiness.com/buyers/iran/precious-stones.html Agate in ancient Persia Iran has long had a reputation in ancient world as a source of good quality agates, and owes this renown principally to several extensive volcanic provinces, which extended vast districts of this country. Archeological researches on ancient founds in early human settle sites and ancient tombs, in prehistoric age, shows this fact that agate, chalcedony and jasper used not only for making stony blades and instruments like arrowhead, but also used as semiprecious stone for making beads and pendants. Some of these founds age go back to 6th millennium BC in age. http://iranian-agates.freeservers.com/ (The man who loves agats: Maziar Nazari - http://iranian-agates.freeservers.com/about.html http://www.mining.com/iran-mining-bigger-opportunity-than-oil/ Iran Geoscience Laboratories http://www.ngdir.ir/Geolab/GeoLabList.asp Iran mineral industry 2010 https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/country/2010/myb3-2010-ir.pdf Tehran Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture http://www.tccim.ir/english/ 2,200-year-old gemstones found in Iran http://www.payvand.com/news/08/apr/1278.html Precious and Semi-Precious Stones Lapis Lazuli, Carnelian, Rock Crystal, Agate, Turquoise, & Imitations http://www.arth501-2016.com/precious--semi-precious-stones.html |
Sapphire
Agate
Turquoise
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Iraq
Jordan
I couldn't really find much on the Internet yet... I'll keep looking.
- Agate. Agate, along with carnelian, chrysoprase, jasper, and flint, is a variety of chalcedony, a type of quartz made up of tiny crystalline fibers. ...
- Amethyst. ...
- Aquamarine. ...
- Chrysoberyl. ...
- Diamond. ...
- Emerald. ...
- Garnet. ...
- Jade
- Lapis Lazuli
Jordan
I couldn't really find much on the Internet yet... I'll keep looking.
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Kazakhstan
Mining Week in Kazakhstan 2017: http://www.infomine.com/events/Mining.Week.Kazakhstan.2017.13th.Anniversary--IM42411.aspx Kazakhstan has a rather large number of minerals, for descriptions and photos, see: http://www.johnbetts-fineminerals.com/jhbnyc/mineralmuseum/gallery2.php?init=&loc=Kazakhstan Bertrandite, Gorgeyite, Hydrozincite, Innderborite, Magesioriebektie, Priceite, Rodingite, many more… |
Bertrandite photo by
Rob Lavinsky, iRocks.com – CC-BY-SA-3.0
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Kyrgyzstan
http://www.geoportal-kg.org/index.php/geology/mineral-resources/raw-materials Aragonite from Khaidarkan, Osh Oblast, Kyrgyzstan Barite and Stibnite from Kadamzhay Mine, Osh Oblast, Kyrgyzstan Barite on Stibnite from Kadamzhay Mine, Osh Oblast, south of Fergana, Kyrgyzstan Calcite on Stibnite from Kadamzhay, Osh Oblast', Kyrgyzstan Cinnabar, Stibnite, Quartz from near Hydercahn, Fergana Basin, Kyrgyzstan Getchellite with Orpiment from Khaidarkan, Osh Oblast, Kyrgyzstan Stibnite from Kadamzhay, Osh Oblast', Kyrgyzstan Stibnite with Barite from Kadamzhay, Osh Oblast', Kyrgyzstan Stibnite with Calcite from Kadamzhay, Osh Oblast, Kyrgyzstan Stibnite with Quartz from Kadamzhay, Osh Oblast', Kyrgyzstan Tangeite from Tange Gorge, Tyuya Muyun, Kyrgyzstan (Type Locality for Tangeite) http://www.johnbetts-fineminerals.com/jhbnyc/mineralmuseum/gallery2.php?init=&loc=Kyrgyzstan The potential of raw gemstones in Kyrgyzstan is considerable as well. In addition to the explored deposits of amethyst (Kok-Mainok II and Kokpak Verkhnyi), irised feldspar (Ottuk), garnet (Makbal), onyx marble (Ulutoo and Khojigor), a large group of perspective occurrences of gem stones and ornamental stones was found in different regions of Kyrgyzstan. Special attention should be paid to ruby occurrences at Ormizan, Kokbeles, Akterek in the Sokh river basin. The northern slope of the Turkestan ridge is perspective regarding detection of commercial deposits of oriental blue sapphire. http://www.geoportal-kg.org/index.php/geology/mineral-resources/raw-materials |
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Lebanon
“Pearls and precious and semiprecious gemstones were exported and accounted for 26% of the country’s total exports…” http://www.azomining.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=226
Lebanon has a significant on-going diamond trade business involving the countries of the EU, DR Congo, UAE, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania. Rough diamonds worth $117.2 million were exported in 2010. http://www.azomining.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=226
… Robert Mouawad, the famous Lebanese gem and jewelry dealer and diamond connoisseur and collector, who is the head of the international jewelry empire, Mouawad Jewelers, with a history of 117 years. http://www.internetstones.com/mouawad-magic-diamond-famous-jewelry.html
https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/country/2010/myb3-2010-le.pdf
“Pearls and precious and semiprecious gemstones were exported and accounted for 26% of the country’s total exports…” http://www.azomining.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=226
Lebanon has a significant on-going diamond trade business involving the countries of the EU, DR Congo, UAE, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania. Rough diamonds worth $117.2 million were exported in 2010. http://www.azomining.com/Article.aspx?ArticleID=226
… Robert Mouawad, the famous Lebanese gem and jewelry dealer and diamond connoisseur and collector, who is the head of the international jewelry empire, Mouawad Jewelers, with a history of 117 years. http://www.internetstones.com/mouawad-magic-diamond-famous-jewelry.html
https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/country/2010/myb3-2010-le.pdf
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Mongolia
“History of gemstones and precious metals exploration have had, in the case of Mongolia, very long history. Many placers of gold have been excavated for more than 2000 years. The main role Among gemstones plays in this region mainly turquoises, agates and jasper, but there are also indications regarding the exploration of nephrite, jadeite, rock crystals and aquamarines... Most of these deposits are still rich in optical rough – mainly quartz and fluorite but in the association with gem beryl, topaz, etc. Recent finds of gem aquamarine, goshenite and light heliodor at Hutag uul ord area in Mongolia prompted the authors to suggest visiting one and only mine of gem beryles in Mongolia. Previous investigations in beryl pegmatite mines demonstrated the difficulties of finding gem pockets, (Kynický and Jaroš, 2003). Not all gem pegmatites are amenable to find higher contents…. Beryl crystals are generally found imbedded in quartz and in smaller cavites; they tend to range from white, slightle yellow, pale green to blue in color. Blue to bluish-green beryl is found in cavities of the largest dyke; some of this beryl is the best gem-quality aquamarine and is accompanied by flourite. The beryl crystals reportedly range up to 18 cm in length, but typical size is near 1*1*20mm to 4*4*40mm. Most of them are slightly to strongly included. Strongly included crystals of white to bluish colour are maximallly 5*6*8 cm. Less often are found absolutely clear strongly elongeited crystals (10*10*90 mm, max 20*25*180 mm) intergrowth with crystals of citrine or morion and pink fluorite… From: Gem Beryl from the Hutag uul ord Deposit in Mongolia http://csga.wz.cz/ang/ahutag.html Mongolia is a mineral-rich country…. Government evaluated about 500 deposits of 40 minerals and revealed that for about 30 minerals, including asbestos, clays, coal, copper, diamond, fluorspar, gold, gemstones, graphite, gypsum, iron, lead, limestone, magnesium, molybdenum, nickel, petroleum, phosphate, platinum, rare earths, salt, sand and gravel, silica, silver, tin, tungsten, uranium, zeolite, and zinc, there were possibilities for the discovery and development of economic resources in Mongolia. Mongolia’s identified mineral resources of coal, copper, and fluorspar are very large. https://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/country/1997/9319097.pdf This natural Yellow Green Turquoise originates from Mongolia and its weight is about 3.5 carats... https://www.gemselect.com/turquoise/turquoise-347610.php (Editor:) There was apparently a hoax regarding an andesine mine in Mongolia (and Tibet) which apparently has been debunked, I think. http://www.tibetandesine.com/Inner_Mongolian_Andesine.html Large cluster of green andradite garnet crystals to 15mm on a thick base of massive garnet https://lunarisgemstones.com.au/products/andradite-garnet-chifeng-inner-mongolia-a-r-china-40x50x70mm-m223 |
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Nepal
Nepal Geological Society: http://ngs.org.np/page/51/47 Ruby, sapphire and emerald, tourmaline, aquamarine/ beryl, garnet, kyanite and quartz crystals http://ngs.org.np/geodetail/4 “Among the well-known precious stones from Nepal Himalaya are ruby, sapphire and topaz. Similarly among the semiprecious stones constitute various coloured tourmaline, aquamarine, amazonite, gahnite, danburite, kyanite, garnet, epidote, amethyst, citrine, smoky quartz, agate, jasper and colourless transparent rock crystals (Kaphle, 2011). Some of the mines of these stones are closed, few are operational and others are in development stage. Among the precious stones gem quality small crystals of light red to red ruby and light to dark blue sapphire exist in Chumar and Ruyil villages in the northern remote part of Dhadhing district and in Shelghar, Songlahas, Pola and Sublay in Rasuwa district. They occur in highly tectonized intensely folded en-chelon lenses of saccharoidal dolomite within the high grade metamorphic rocks in MCT zone (Smith et. al., 1997, Basset, 1987). Some corundum, sapphire, and green and straw yellow topaz are also known from Ilam, Taplejung and Rasuwa districts respectively. Gem quality distinctive multihued tourmaline (Elbaite) and pink, bright green, light orange sometimes with repeated colour banding olive green with amber coloured core tourmaline from Hyakule and Phakuwa are mined from the complex pegmatites in Sankhuwasabha, eastern Nepal are known since 1934 (UN/ESCAP with DMG, 1993). Pegmatites of Ikabu and Lodantar (Taplejung), few places in Panchthar, Langtang valley (Rasuwa), Naje (Manang), Garkhakot (Jajarkot) are also promising for tourmaline. Similarly aquamarine and quartz crystals from Ikabu and Lodantar and hambergite, danburite and ijolite are the important prospects in Taplejung. Aquamarine from Phakuwa (Sankhuwasabha); aquamarine and green coloured tourmaline from Naje (Manang), Lekhpatan and Tikachaur (Jajarkot); Jagat, Panchmane and Kagtigaon (Kathmandu); Baguwa, Tarkeghyang, Nibuwagaon (Sindhupalchok); Khaptad (Bajhang), and few places of Darchula and Panchthar are the other promising sites for aquamarine/ beryl….” [Small part of PDF Download from:] http://nceg.uop.edu.pk/GeologicalBulletin/29thHKTWorkshopAbstractVol/abstract46.pdf RUBIES AND FANCY-COLOR SAPPHIRES FROM NEPAL By Christopher P. Smith, Edward J. Gublein, Allen M. Bassett, and Mache N. Manandhar “Kyanite is more of a collector gem then a mainstream gem, and has not been extensively mined for gem use. Gem quality Kyanite has traditionally come from Brazil, Cambodia, and Burma, but these stones are generally not colored consistently . They usually have a grayish tone, and are not fully transparent, thus limiting their use as a gemstones. However, recent finds in Nepal of high quality Kyanite have been delivering gemstones of exceptional blue color and transparency, rivaling Sapphire.” http://www.minerals.net/gemstone/kyanite_gemstone.aspx |
Photo by by Aelwyn https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/0/00/Kyanite_crystals.jpg
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Pakistan
“Pakistan Gems and Jewellery Development Company was formed in June 2006 and the company became operational in April 2007. PGJDC has the support and backing of the Government of Pakistan through Ministry of Production. The success of two years of consultative exercise which led to the formation of PGJDC would have been impossible without the personal attention and encouragement given throughout by the Ministry of Production, Government of Pakistan.”
“This consultative process of value chain analysis, gap identification and pilot project identification was led by private sector stakeholders representing all the four provinces and federally administered territories. The result was the first ever mine-to-market strategy based on first hand information. Despite its abundant reserves of precious and semi-precious gemstones and rich history of jewellery manufacturing, Pakistan has been unable to develop an internationally competitive gems and jewellery industry. Capitalizing on its vast natural resources, low labor costs, skilled craftsmen, and growing national and international demand, Pakistan has the potential to become a regional hub for precious stone cutting and jewellery manufacturing.” http://pgjdc.org/
Some of the details of gemstones present in Pakistan with respect to areas are given below:
Khyber Pakhtunkwah
“Only during the last few years have the gem riches of Pakistan become known to the rest of the world. This article reports on three gem materials currently being mined: emerald, corundum (most importantly, ruby), and spinel. Intensely colored emerald crystals occur in dolomitic talc schists in the Swat Valley. Unusually high optical properties and density serve to distinguish these emeralds from those found elsewhere. Numerous gas-liquid inclusions are also typical. In the Hunza Valley, specimen and gem-quality crystals of corundum and spinel occur in beds of marble enclosed in gneisses and mica schists. The gemological properties of the Pakistan rubies and sapphires vary only slightly within normal limits.” https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/fall-1982-gemstones-pakistan-gubelin
“Pakistani gemstones include a variety of minerals such as peridot, aquamarine, topaz, ruby and emerald, making the country significant in the mineral world.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gemstones_of_Pakistan
Precious and Semi-Precious stones in Pakistan include:
Brookite (Brookite is a very dark-colored mineral. Cuttable crystals are exceedingly rare, and attractive-looking cut stones are among the rarest of all gems.), Chevkinite (Chevkinite-(Ce) RRUFF ID: R060419 Ideal Chemistry: Ce4(Ti,Fe2+,Fe3+)5O8(Si2O7)2. Locality: Arondu, Basha Valley, Baltistan, Pakistan ), Clinozoisite (Clinozoisite polished crystal is also called Thulite. It is a pink and green stone that is related to Epidote and Zoisite), Flurorichterite (Fluororichterite – also Koksha Valley, Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan), Genthelvite (Zagi Mountain – Zegi - Mulla Ghori, Khyber Agency, Federally Administered Tribal Areas FATA, Pakistan), Lazulite (Lazulite from Laila, Gilgit District, Gilgit-Baltistan Northern Areas, Pakistan), Ludwigite ( Ludwigite Mineral Gallery. ... Kohistan District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, North-West Frontier Province), Tremolite, Triplite, Vayrynenite (named for Finnish mineralogist Väyrynen who identified it in Finland but the pink samples and gems come from the Paproke mine in Afghanistan)
Gems & Gemological Institute of Pakistan (GGIP)-Peshawar
Address: Suite # 209, 1st Floor, Benevolent Fund Building, Sadder Road, Peshawar - Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa – Pakistan
Phone: (+92-91) 9213303, 9213196, 9213197
Fax: (+92-91) 9213198 , Email: ggipeshawar@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.ggip.com.pk/
“Pakistan Gems and Jewellery Development Company was formed in June 2006 and the company became operational in April 2007. PGJDC has the support and backing of the Government of Pakistan through Ministry of Production. The success of two years of consultative exercise which led to the formation of PGJDC would have been impossible without the personal attention and encouragement given throughout by the Ministry of Production, Government of Pakistan.”
“This consultative process of value chain analysis, gap identification and pilot project identification was led by private sector stakeholders representing all the four provinces and federally administered territories. The result was the first ever mine-to-market strategy based on first hand information. Despite its abundant reserves of precious and semi-precious gemstones and rich history of jewellery manufacturing, Pakistan has been unable to develop an internationally competitive gems and jewellery industry. Capitalizing on its vast natural resources, low labor costs, skilled craftsmen, and growing national and international demand, Pakistan has the potential to become a regional hub for precious stone cutting and jewellery manufacturing.” http://pgjdc.org/
Some of the details of gemstones present in Pakistan with respect to areas are given below:
Khyber Pakhtunkwah
- Swat (Malakand division) – Emerald, various types of quartz, and epidote
- Katlang (Mardan division) – Pink Topaz
- Dir (Malakand division) – Corundum and quartz
- Mansehra (Hazara division) – Corundum and smoky quartz
- Kohistan (Hazara division) – Peridot
- Peshawar district– Quartz with astrophyllite/iebeckite fiber inclusions, xenotime, and bastnaesite
- Mohmand Agency – Emerald, clinozoisite, sphene, and epidote
- Bajaur Agency – Emerald, garnet, and orange-colour scapolite
- Khyber Agency – Quartz with astrophyllite/reibeckite fibers inclusions, xenotime, and bastnaesite
- North and South Waziristan Agencies – Faden quartz, diamond quartz, phantom quartz, chlorite-included quartz, and window quartz
- Chilas (Diamer district) – Alluvial diopside, zircon, rutile quartz, aquamarine, and tourmaline
- Gilgi , Hunza, and Shigar (Gilgit district) – Aquamarine, topaz (golden and white), emerald, ruby, pollucite, rutile quartz, morganite, apatite, spinel, and pargasite
- Shengus, Stak Nala, and Tormiq Nala (Baltistan Skardu Road, Baltistan district) – Aquamarine, topaz, tourmaline, apatite, sphene, morganite, and quartz
- Shigar Proper (near Skardu, Baltistan district) – Apatite, zoisite, rutile quartz, epidote, and morganite
- Childee, Kashmal, and Yuno (Shigar area, near Skardu, Baltistan district) – Aquamarine, emerald-colour tourmaline, apatite, morganite, topaz, and quartz
- Hyderabad, Testun, Dassu, Net Tahirabad, and Goyungo (Shigar area, Baltistan district) – Golden Topaz, aquamarine, tourmaline, morganite, rare earth minerals, apatite, quartz, and emerald
- Appu Aligund, Fuljo, Braldu, Bashu, and Karma (Baltistan district) – Tourmaline, aquamarine, garnets,diopside, ruby, pargasite, emerald, topaz, amethyst, scheelite, and quartz
- Khappalu and near Siachin area (Gaanshai area, Baltistan district) – Aquamarine, amethyst, and fine golden rutile quartz
- Kharan district – Brookite, anatase, and quartz
- Chaman (near Quetta) – Diamond quartz, window quartz, quartz on prehnite-base, and faden quartz included by chlorite
“Only during the last few years have the gem riches of Pakistan become known to the rest of the world. This article reports on three gem materials currently being mined: emerald, corundum (most importantly, ruby), and spinel. Intensely colored emerald crystals occur in dolomitic talc schists in the Swat Valley. Unusually high optical properties and density serve to distinguish these emeralds from those found elsewhere. Numerous gas-liquid inclusions are also typical. In the Hunza Valley, specimen and gem-quality crystals of corundum and spinel occur in beds of marble enclosed in gneisses and mica schists. The gemological properties of the Pakistan rubies and sapphires vary only slightly within normal limits.” https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/fall-1982-gemstones-pakistan-gubelin
“Pakistani gemstones include a variety of minerals such as peridot, aquamarine, topaz, ruby and emerald, making the country significant in the mineral world.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gemstones_of_Pakistan
Precious and Semi-Precious stones in Pakistan include:
Brookite (Brookite is a very dark-colored mineral. Cuttable crystals are exceedingly rare, and attractive-looking cut stones are among the rarest of all gems.), Chevkinite (Chevkinite-(Ce) RRUFF ID: R060419 Ideal Chemistry: Ce4(Ti,Fe2+,Fe3+)5O8(Si2O7)2. Locality: Arondu, Basha Valley, Baltistan, Pakistan ), Clinozoisite (Clinozoisite polished crystal is also called Thulite. It is a pink and green stone that is related to Epidote and Zoisite), Flurorichterite (Fluororichterite – also Koksha Valley, Badakhshan Province, Afghanistan), Genthelvite (Zagi Mountain – Zegi - Mulla Ghori, Khyber Agency, Federally Administered Tribal Areas FATA, Pakistan), Lazulite (Lazulite from Laila, Gilgit District, Gilgit-Baltistan Northern Areas, Pakistan), Ludwigite ( Ludwigite Mineral Gallery. ... Kohistan District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, North-West Frontier Province), Tremolite, Triplite, Vayrynenite (named for Finnish mineralogist Väyrynen who identified it in Finland but the pink samples and gems come from the Paproke mine in Afghanistan)
Gems & Gemological Institute of Pakistan (GGIP)-Peshawar
Address: Suite # 209, 1st Floor, Benevolent Fund Building, Sadder Road, Peshawar - Khyber Pakhtoonkhwa – Pakistan
Phone: (+92-91) 9213303, 9213196, 9213197
Fax: (+92-91) 9213198 , Email: ggipeshawar@yahoo.com
Website: http://www.ggip.com.pk/
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Russian Federation
The Russian MSU Gemological Center - Issues four types of identification reports in two formats, including Diamond Report, Gemstone Testing Report, Jewelry Report and Rough Diamond Report. http://www.gem-center.ru/en/ http://www.alexandrite.net/directory/laboratories/the-russian-msu-gemological-center-wdd-003-00013.html Russian Gemological Server http://www.gemology.ru/ (offers many resources – including links to DiamCalc http://www.octonus.com/oct/download/ ) Gemological Centers “G.C.I.” offers estimation and certification services for jewels and precious stones, in compliance with the International estimation rules of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the Russian system of voluntary certification "GemmoCert". In Russia any sale of loose stones to be legal - requires a certificate-, . Therefore, the G.C.I. Gem Lab also proposes diagnostics and estimation services for loose diamonds, as well as for rough diamonds and stones at the initial stage of faceting for its further faceting in view of maximizing the yield. http://www.igc-gem.com/russialab.html (Other offices in Israel, India, US, Thailand and Japan) Education: SU Gemological Center Address : Gemological Center, Department of Geology, Moscow University Main BUilding, leninskie Gory, GSP-2, Moscow, Russia-119992. Telephone : +7 095 939 4973, +7 095 932 8894 Email : gemology@geol.msu.ru Website : www.gemology.ru Russian State Geological Prospecting University http://mgri-rggru.ru/en/ Discovery of New Gem Tourmaline Pockets in the Sosedka Pegmatite, Malkhan, Russia by Jindřich Kynický and Štěpán Krejsek http://www.rocksandminerals.org/Back%20Issues/2013/July-August%202013/discovery-of-new-gem-abstract.html Older report, but interesting, maybe useful: http://www.diamonds.net/News/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=2727&ArticleTitle=Gem+Labs+in+Russia+a+Mixed+Bag |
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Syrian Arab Republic
Practically nothing about Syrian gemstones on the Internet.
SYRIAN GARNET - Almandine Garnet with a slightly purplish tinge.
Practically nothing about Syrian gemstones on the Internet.
SYRIAN GARNET - Almandine Garnet with a slightly purplish tinge.
Tajikistan
RUBIES AND SAPPHIRES FROM SNEZHNOE, TAJIKISTAN by Elena S. Sorokina, Andrey K. Litvinenko, Wolfgang Hofmeister, Tobias Häger, Dorrit E. Jacob, andZamoniddin Z. Nasriddinov (PDF Download at:) https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/summer-2015-rubies-sapphires-snezhnoe-tajikistan
Variscite from Central Tajikistan: Preliminary Results - https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/spring-2016-variscite-central-tajikistan-preliminary-results
From Kashmir to Pamir, Summer 2006: Gemological expedition report to Ruby, Emerald and Spinel mining areas in Central Asia - Part 3: Tajikistan: Gems from the Pamirs http://www.fieldgemology.org/gemology%20tajikistan%20ruby%20spinel%20pamir.php
“For well over a millennium, this land has held one of the most important gemological secrets, that of the balas ruby. When one of the authors (RH) began researching his first book, he became intrigued by the accounts of these mines which, despite being the alleged source of the Black Prince's Ruby and Timur Ruby, had completely slipped off the gemological radar. How could such a famous locality go so utterly MIA? … In addition, that same trip he journeyed to the relatively new ruby deposits in eastern Tajikistan near the Chinese border… Tajikistan's Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO), where both the ruby and spinel mines are found, is a restricted area, requiring a special permit, as shown above.” http://www.ruby-sapphire.com/tajikistan_ruby_and_spinel.htm
Rubies: http://www.fieldgemology.org/gemology%20tajikistan%20ruby.php
RUBIES AND SAPPHIRES FROM SNEZHNOE, TAJIKISTAN by Elena S. Sorokina, Andrey K. Litvinenko, Wolfgang Hofmeister, Tobias Häger, Dorrit E. Jacob, andZamoniddin Z. Nasriddinov (PDF Download at:) https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/summer-2015-rubies-sapphires-snezhnoe-tajikistan
Variscite from Central Tajikistan: Preliminary Results - https://www.gia.edu/gems-gemology/spring-2016-variscite-central-tajikistan-preliminary-results
From Kashmir to Pamir, Summer 2006: Gemological expedition report to Ruby, Emerald and Spinel mining areas in Central Asia - Part 3: Tajikistan: Gems from the Pamirs http://www.fieldgemology.org/gemology%20tajikistan%20ruby%20spinel%20pamir.php
“For well over a millennium, this land has held one of the most important gemological secrets, that of the balas ruby. When one of the authors (RH) began researching his first book, he became intrigued by the accounts of these mines which, despite being the alleged source of the Black Prince's Ruby and Timur Ruby, had completely slipped off the gemological radar. How could such a famous locality go so utterly MIA? … In addition, that same trip he journeyed to the relatively new ruby deposits in eastern Tajikistan near the Chinese border… Tajikistan's Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast (GBAO), where both the ruby and spinel mines are found, is a restricted area, requiring a special permit, as shown above.” http://www.ruby-sapphire.com/tajikistan_ruby_and_spinel.htm
Rubies: http://www.fieldgemology.org/gemology%20tajikistan%20ruby.php
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Turkey
“With close to 4,000 members, IKO (https://www.iko.org.tr/ - Turkish language only) is a leading representative body of the jewelry industry and trade in Turkey, which saw its exports grow by 28 percent in 2014 to stand at $4.5 billion. The organization provides a range of administrative, professional, economic and educational services, all of which are intended to benefit the Turkish jewelry sector, and to raise its profile internationally. At its initiative, the Diamond Dealers Club of Turkey was established, and the new bourse has formally applied for membership in the WFDB.” http://www.jewellerynewsasia.com/DetailPages/ArticleContentPage?WEBONID=12653 http://www.diamonds.net/News/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=52616&ArticleTitle=Istanbul+Chamber+of+Jewelry%2C+World+Jewelry+Hub+Sign+Cooperative+Agreement In Anatolia (Turkey) gemstones have been known and used in various forms of jewellery for the past 5000 years. Significant stones produced in Turkey are diaspore, agate, blue chalcedony, obsidian, onyx, turquaz, crystal quartz, garnet, lavender jade, meerschaum. https://www.choratravel.com/precious-stones-in-turkey Relatively new, Zultanite is a gemstone which has 7 different color tones according to light that is dedicated to Ottoman sultans as name. https://www.choratravel.com/precious-stones-in-turkey For Zultanite, see: http://www.gemcoach.com/zultanite-guide/ Zultanite, Csarite And Diaspore – What is The Difference https://www.gemrockauctions.com/learn/did-you-know/zultanite-csarite-and-diaspore-ndash-what-is-the-difference More gems in Turkey and origin: Beryl (Balıkesir, Gönen, Alacaoluk and Beyoluk), Fire Opal (Kütahya, Simav, Karamanca county), Dendritic Agate (Kütahya, Dereyalak village), Moonstone feldspar and quartz crystal (Aydın, Çine), Tree Agate (Ankara, Hayman), Agate (İzmir, Güzelbahçe, Afyon, Bayat), Garnet (Manisa, Akhisar), Fluorite (Elazığ, Keban), Many others, see: http://www.birdamlasu.com/gemstonesofTurkey.htm An Introduction to Turkey’s Gemstones: https://www.gemsociety.org/article/an-introduction-to-turkeys-gemstones/ https://www.iko.org.tr/ Gemological Laboratory of Turkey https://www.facebook.com/GLTIKO/ HRD in Istanbul: http://www.hrdantwerp.com.tr/ Address: Mollafenari Mahallesi, Ç. Nuruosmaniye Cd. No:12, 34120 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey https://gemmanews.wordpress.com/2010/03/20/hrd-antwerp-nv-opens-istanbul-gem-lab/ https://www.facebook.com/HrdAntwerp.middleeast/ The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is bringing its Accredited Jewelry Professional Diploma and Diamond Grading Lab Class to Turkey with the support of the Istanbul Kemerburgaz University (IKU). IKU and the GIA recently inked a memorandum of understanding that will facilitate the delivery of the institute’s gemmological education programmes to Turkey. http://www.jewellerynewsasia.com/DetailPages/ArticleContentPage?WEBONID=4962 http://www.borsaistanbul.com/en/products-and-markets/markets/precious-metals-and-diamond-markets/diamond-and-precious-stones-market Gemstones Deposits in Turkey: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/240539223_Gemstone_Deposits_in_Turkey Turkish Mining Law: The Turkish Mining Law - Mining rights and minerals are exclusively owned by the state and the ownership of the minerals in Turkey is not defined by private land ownership. The state delegates rights to explore and operate to Turkish individuals or legal entities through set period licences in return for royalty payments. Local and foreign investors can acquire the same mining rights but foreign investors need to establish a Turkish company to do so, which can be 100% foreign owned. The mining regime is regulated by the General Directorate of Mining Affairs (MIGEM), a unit of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources. Local administrations also have a level of authority in relation to licencing and regulation of mining facilities. Mining is primarily governed by the 1985 Mining Law no. 3213. This law has been amended several times in recent years, but most significantly in June 2010 by law no. 5995. This latest amendment aims to provide a more investment friendly environment, particularly for exploration projects, alongside bringing aspects such as environmental protection and health and safety more in line with international expectations… http://www.mondaq.com/turkey/x/217158/Mining/Mining+Sector+and+Mining+Law Editor’s Note: I visited The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul last summer. It has hundreds of gem and jewelry dealers. I believe dealers there are reputable because they are part of a community in which reputation is extremelyj important. Researching this I found: “I love to buy gem stones in Turkey. I do not find it strange at all. Turkey is well known for the jewelry it produces. “I really like alexandrite and amethysts. I purchased a huge African amethyst in 2007. I paid I think $200 or maybe $250. Five weeks later a jeweler in the French Quarter in New Orleans offered me $1800. After he appraised it he wanted to buy it. “We have purchased gem stone already set in rings and pendants as well as loose stones. We have some really lovely Zultanite that makes our local jeweler jealous every time he sees it. We bought those stone loose and had them set back in the US, simply because it was a last minute decision and there was no time to get them set in Turkey. In March my husband replaced a white sapphire in a ring he purchased in Turkey in 1965 with a gorgeous emerald. “Jewelry is one thing we always buy in Istanbul. Almost every important piece of jewelry I own has come from there, and every single piece of it has been valued at least as much as three times what I paid for it. https://en.tripadvisor.com.hk/ShowTopic-g293974-i368-k2828611-Gemstones_in_Grand_Bazarr-Istanbul.html |
Istanbul Grand Bazaar
Istanbul Grand Bazaar
Zultanite
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Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan is mining: Turquoise, onyx marble, jasper, cacholong, rhodonite, agate, cornelian, listvenite, serpentine, Quartz and Quartzite, fluorspar… http://www.jp-ca.org/navoiforum/materials/no.3/1georogiya.pdf
Azurite from Koch-Nulach, Uzbekistan
Research in Uzbekistan: Basing on the patent obtained in 1988 at the Institute of Nuclear Physics AS RU, there has been developed the improved industrial technology for coloration of white topaz into light, medium and deep blue colors with fast neutrons and gamma-radiation of the nuclear reactor. http://www.techprofiles.org/index.php/uzbekistan-technologies/449-gemstone-coloration-by-neutron-and-gamma-irradiation-for-jewelry Contact: Institute of Nuclear Physics, Ulugbek, 100214, Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Contact person: Elvira Ibragimova
Tashmarine, the Yellowish Green Diopside - Tashmarine is a remarkably brilliant diopside usually found in pistachio-green, though its colors can range from light grayish-green to even, varying intensities of bluish-green. Even though the rare yellowish-green diopside was first discovered in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, most of the material we see today was sourced from the Tashmarine Mine owned by C. Gem House in China's Xinjiang Province. https://www.gemselect.com/other-info/tashmarine-diopside-gemstone.php
What do you get when you mix a bright green peridot with a blue-green tourmaline? Tashmarine,™ of course.
Eric Braunwart says his company, Columbia Gem House, Vancouver, WA, chose the mellifluous name and hopes that with proper marketing, good supply and marketable sizes, the gem is on a fast track to join tanzanite, tsavorite and Paraíba tourmaline in a select group of newer world-class gemstones. Gemologically, the gem is diopside, and it’s from a deposit near Tashkent in eastern Uzbekistan. Diopside, mostly originating in Russia, has been gaining popularity as a gem in recent years, particularly because its deep green is reminiscent of the finest green tourmaline – at a fraction of the price. A recent issue of The Guide lists the wholesale price of extra fine chrome green tourmaline in the 5-10-ct. range at $600-900 per carat. Chrome diopside of a similar size, clarity and color is $50-80 per carat. http://www.professionaljeweler.com/archives/articles/2002/sep02/0902gn2.html
Incidentally: In 2014 Uzbekistan was responsible for mining some 102 metric tons of gold which put them #8 on the list of gold producing countries in the world. Not only are they solidly entrenched in the top 10 of this list but the country is well positioned to find even more active gold reserves in its short term future. Gold production plays a huge part of driving the economy in Uzbekistan. Most of the gold is said to be concentrated around the area of the country known as Central Kyzyl-kum. http://raregoldnuggets.com/blog/?p=1663
Uzbekistan is mining: Turquoise, onyx marble, jasper, cacholong, rhodonite, agate, cornelian, listvenite, serpentine, Quartz and Quartzite, fluorspar… http://www.jp-ca.org/navoiforum/materials/no.3/1georogiya.pdf
Azurite from Koch-Nulach, Uzbekistan
Research in Uzbekistan: Basing on the patent obtained in 1988 at the Institute of Nuclear Physics AS RU, there has been developed the improved industrial technology for coloration of white topaz into light, medium and deep blue colors with fast neutrons and gamma-radiation of the nuclear reactor. http://www.techprofiles.org/index.php/uzbekistan-technologies/449-gemstone-coloration-by-neutron-and-gamma-irradiation-for-jewelry Contact: Institute of Nuclear Physics, Ulugbek, 100214, Tashkent, Uzbekistan; Contact person: Elvira Ibragimova
Tashmarine, the Yellowish Green Diopside - Tashmarine is a remarkably brilliant diopside usually found in pistachio-green, though its colors can range from light grayish-green to even, varying intensities of bluish-green. Even though the rare yellowish-green diopside was first discovered in Tashkent, the capital city of Uzbekistan, most of the material we see today was sourced from the Tashmarine Mine owned by C. Gem House in China's Xinjiang Province. https://www.gemselect.com/other-info/tashmarine-diopside-gemstone.php
What do you get when you mix a bright green peridot with a blue-green tourmaline? Tashmarine,™ of course.
Eric Braunwart says his company, Columbia Gem House, Vancouver, WA, chose the mellifluous name and hopes that with proper marketing, good supply and marketable sizes, the gem is on a fast track to join tanzanite, tsavorite and Paraíba tourmaline in a select group of newer world-class gemstones. Gemologically, the gem is diopside, and it’s from a deposit near Tashkent in eastern Uzbekistan. Diopside, mostly originating in Russia, has been gaining popularity as a gem in recent years, particularly because its deep green is reminiscent of the finest green tourmaline – at a fraction of the price. A recent issue of The Guide lists the wholesale price of extra fine chrome green tourmaline in the 5-10-ct. range at $600-900 per carat. Chrome diopside of a similar size, clarity and color is $50-80 per carat. http://www.professionaljeweler.com/archives/articles/2002/sep02/0902gn2.html
Incidentally: In 2014 Uzbekistan was responsible for mining some 102 metric tons of gold which put them #8 on the list of gold producing countries in the world. Not only are they solidly entrenched in the top 10 of this list but the country is well positioned to find even more active gold reserves in its short term future. Gold production plays a huge part of driving the economy in Uzbekistan. Most of the gold is said to be concentrated around the area of the country known as Central Kyzyl-kum. http://raregoldnuggets.com/blog/?p=1663
International Gemstone Resources with Links
Diamond Registry (Prices, education, information, news/ English and Chinese) http://www.diamondregistry.com/
Diamond and other price comparisons from multiple vendors: https://www.pricescope.com/
Internet Diamond Exchange (Rapaport): http://www.diamonds.net/
Gemological Institute of America - Established in 1931, GIA is the world’s foremost authority on diamonds, colored stones, and pearls. A public benefit, nonprofit institute, GIA is the leading source of knowledge, standards, and education in gems and jewelry. https://www.gia.edu/
GIA Middle East: http://www.giamideast.com/
HRD Antwerp: http://www.hrdantwerp.com/en/home
Diamond and Colored Stone Trade Site: https://www.polygon.net/jwl/public/home-en.jsp
International Gemological Institute: http://www.igiworldwide.com/
International Colored Gemstone Association: http://www.gemstone.org/
The largest Russian Manufacturer: http://www.kristallsmolensk.com/
Mineralogical Society of America: http://www.minsocam.org/
Gemstone Photography Resources: http://www.theimage.com/
Link list with 172 Minerals and 866 photographs: http://www.theimage.com/mineral/index.htm
Link-list for World Gemstone resources: http://www.igiworldwide.com/affiliations.html
Gemology Link-list: https://gemologyonline.com/links.html https://www.gemologyonline.com/Forum/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=16542
Gem/Jewelry Internet Magazine: http://www.instoremag.com/
DID YOU KNOW?
The term ‘diamond’ is from the Greek, adamas, meaning "invincible" or "hardest. Diamond is 140times harder than corundum. A diamond setter should prevent any of cleavage directions from being in a position to be struck while mounted in a jewelry piece. The excellent luster of diamond distinguishes it from synthetic diamond. X-ray doesn’t pass through diamond and is absorbed. This property aids us in distinguishing it from Stimulants.
The physical properties of diamond are exceptional. Due to the sparkle and flashes of light emitted from the gemstone and dispersive refraction resulted from high index of refraction, diamond is introduced as the king of gem settings.
Diamond was always the most popular gemstone. But, among ancestors, it was a rare gemstone. Polini remarks in the year 100 A.D. that diamond is the most precious gemstone but only kings know it. The high value of diamond is due to hardness, sparkle and dispersion. In addition, it is completely insoluble in acids or alkaline. Because of this resistance, it is called “adamas” (from the Greek, meaning invincible or hardest) and later the term “diamond” is derived from it.
Kolinan in size 3106 karat is the biggest diamond of the world discovered in South Africa in 1905. http://www.ngdir.ir/Geolab/GeoLabExp.asp?PID=429&PExpCode=3097&
Healing power of gems? http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2015/09/iraq-gem-stones-medical-use.html
Magical powers of precious stones? https://www.azernews.az/lifestyle/82482.html
BEWARE of DEADLY MINERALS AND GEMSTONES: http://www.worldatlas.com/articles/deadliest-minerals-and-gemstones.html
World Rough Diamond Supplies 2014 & 2016
http://www.mining.com/web/the-state-of-global-rough-diamond-supply-2014/ (Country by country)
http://www.bain.com/publications/articles/global-diamond-industry-report-2016.aspx
For some curious research, Pew market research on Muslims use of precious stones as talismans: http://www.pewforum.org/2012/08/09/the-worlds-muslims-unity-and-diversity-4-other-beliefs-and-practices/
GIA Middle East: https://www.facebook.com/GIAMiddleEast/
Science research scholarships in Hong Kong: https://croucher.org.hk/funding?gclid=CNDzlYiEtdQCFQsQvQodZm8L2Q
What are some popular Green Gemstones? https://www.gemselect.com/other-info/green-gemstones.php