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.
Shop Natural GemstonesTop Categories of Mineral Wealth
- Precious metals & rare base metals
- Precious & semi-precious gemstones
- Industrial & decorative minerals
- 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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