Gemfields is set to significantly expand its ruby production with the opening of a new processing plant at its Montepuez mine in Mozambique this September. The facility will triple the site’s ore-processing capacity—from 200 to 600 tonnes per hour—marking a major leap in the miner’s operational scale. Initial ruby production from the new plant is scheduled for August, with full operations launching the following month.

Originally slated for an earlier debut, the opening was delayed due to challenges including transportation disruptions, work permit delays, and security-related and operational issues in the region.

Meanwhile, Gemfields has also restarted open-pit operations at its Kagem emerald mine in Zambia, which had paused mining earlier this year as part of cost-reduction strategies amid a cooling colored gemstone market. The restart begins with two active production zones at the Chama pit, focused on low-waste mining. Depending on market recovery, the company may scale up activity in July, though it does not plan a full return to previous output levels in the near term.

In addition to its mining operations, Gemfields is once again evaluating strategic options for its luxury Fabergé brand, after resolving a rights issue that had temporarily paused such plans. The miner began exploring the sale of Fabergé in December as part of a broader effort to align its portfolio with market trends and shareholder interests.

Together, these moves signal Gemfields’ intention to adapt to shifting market dynamics while reinforcing its leadership in the colored gemstone sector.