Top Gemstone-Rich Nations Across the Globe
In the realm of gemology, a few countries stand out as the most significant producers of a diverse and high-quality range of gemstones. According to Charles Evans FGA DGA, the Operations Manager at Gem-A, these countries are often recognised for their remarkable gemstone industries and the exceptional quality of their stones.
One such country is Sri Lanka, famed for its sapphires and a wide array of gemstones. Its small-scale mining operations, fascinating faceting operations, and skilled heat-treaters have made it a hub for gemstone enthusiasts. Sri Lanka is also known for its luxurious holiday experiences, offering a stark contrast to some other gemstone-rich destinations.
Myanmar (Burma) is another noteworthy country, renowned for its high-quality rubies and jade. Burma's gemstones are some of the most sought-after in the world, with a unique allure that attracts collectors and jewellers alike.
Colombia, with its exceptional emeralds, is another country that garners attention in the gemstone world. Brazil, too, is a significant player, boasting a vast variety of gemstones including topaz, aquamarine, and tourmaline.
Thailand serves as a major cutting and trading centre for various gemstones, while Australia is known for its opals and sapphires, particularly the Argyle Diamond Mine, famous for its pink and red diamonds.
Afghanistan and Pakistan are sources of fine peridot, emeralds, and tourmaline, adding to the global gemstone market's rich diversity.
The sheer size and scale of Brazil make it one of, if not the most important, gemstone producing countries on Earth. Its geological diversity covers 47% of South America's landmass and almost 1/8th of the world's landmass, making it a treasure trove for gemstone hunters.
However, gemstone hunting holidays are not without their challenges. Prospectors may encounter biting flies, scorpions, rabid animals, and may even need to carry a rifle for protection. Amenities like ice cream might be scarce, and accommodation may be basic.
For those seeking a more traditional mining experience, Zimbabwe offers an opportunity to obtain a prospector's license at the post office for gold mining. The country is also a source of various gemstones, including emerald, garnet, aquamarine, malachite, tourmaline, tiger's eye, and quartz.
Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Burma), Colombia, Thailand, Australia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Brazil stand out as the most important gemstone-producing countries, according to Charles Evans FGA DGA. These countries offer unique experiences for gemstone enthusiasts, each with its own charm, challenges, and treasures waiting to be discovered.
[1] Source: Gem-A (gem-a.org) [3] Source: Gemological Institute of America (gia.edu)
- Sri Lanka, revered for its sapphires and diverse gemstones, is a gemstone enthusiast's haven, boasting small-scale mining operations, faceting operations, and skilled heat-treaters.
- Myanmar (Burma), known for its high-quality rubies and jade, is home to some of the most sought-after gemstones in the world, attracting collectors and jewelry makers alike.
- Colombia, whose exceptional emeralds have made it a noteworthy country in the gemstone world, joins Brazil, another significant player, known for its variety of gemstones such as topaz, aquamarine, and tourmaline.
- Thailand serves as a major cutting and trading center for various gemstones, while Australia, famous for its opals and sapphires, particularly the Argyle Diamond Mine with its pink and red diamonds, is another notable gemstone-rich country.
- Afghanistan and Pakistan, adding to the global gemstone market's rich diversity, are sources of fine peridot, emeralds, and tourmaline.
- With its geological diversity covering 47% of South America's landmass and almost 1/8th of the world's landmass, Brazil stands out as one of, if not the most, important gemstone producing countries on Earth.
- For those seeking a more traditional mining experience, Zimbabwe offers an opportunity to obtain a prospector's license for gold mining, while also being a source of various gemstones, including emerald, garnet, aquamarine, malachite, tourmaline, tiger's eye, and quartz.
