Natural Gemstones and Crystals of Pakistan

Natural Gemstones and Crystals of Pakistan

by Samina Gulzar on May 07 2024
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    Gemstones of Pakistan: Guide to Mining Areas, Types & Value

    Pakistan is a global gemstone hotspot, ranking just after Brazil in known reserves. From Baluchistan’s desert deposits to the high-altitude mines of Gilgit-Baltistan, the country supplies world-class precious and semi-precious stones used by jewelry brands, collectors, and lapidaries around the world.

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    Top Categories of Mineral Wealth

    1. Precious metals & rare base metals
    2. Precious & semi-precious gemstones
    3. Industrial & decorative minerals
    4. Alluvial placer deposits for gold & rare metals

    Technical Information of Popular Pakistani Gemstones

    Gemstone Color Range Hardness (Mohs) Crystal System Luster
    Ruby Pinkish Red to Blood Red 9 Trigonal Vitreous
    Emerald Green to Deep Green 7.5–8 Hexagonal Vitreous
    Sapphire Blue, Pink, Yellow, Colorless 9 Trigonal Vitreous
    Aquamarine Light Blue to Sea Green 7.5–8 Hexagonal Vitreous
    Topaz Golden, Blue, Pink, White 8 Orthorhombic Vitreous
    Tourmaline Multicolored (Pink, Green, Blue, Bi-Color) 7–7.5 Trigonal Vitreous
    Amethyst Light Purple to Deep Violet 7 Trigonal Vitreous

    Major Gemstone Mining Areas

    Swat Valley — Emeralds & Corundum

    Swat is famous for bright green Swat emeralds mined around Mingora and Shamozai.

    Hunza Valley — Aquamarine & Ruby

    Hunza supplies clear, icy-blue aquamarine and ruby material prized by jewelers.

    Skardu & Shigar

    Shigar and Skardu host large pegmatites producing tourmaline, morganite, aquamarine and golden topaz.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which gemstone is Pakistan most famous for?

    Pakistan is especially known for Swat emeralds and Hunza aquamarine, along with rubies, sapphires and tourmalines.

    Are Pakistani gemstones good quality?

    Yes, many rival gemstones from Colombia, Brazil and Burma in clarity and brilliance.

    Where can I buy certified Pakistani gemstones online?

    Certified dealers like Folkmarket provide authenticity certificates.

    Which regions produce the best emeralds in Pakistan?

    Swat Valley (Mingora and Shamozai) produces the highest quality emeralds in Pakistan.

    How are Pakistani gemstones priced?

    Prices depend on type, carat weight, clarity, color, cut and certification.

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