International News
Kagem to recommence focused open-pit mining
Gemfields is pleased to announce that Kagem Mining Limited (‘Kagem’), the emerald mine in Zambia which is 75% owned by Gemfields and 25% owned by the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Industrial Development Corporation of Zambia (‘IDC’), will shortly recommence a programme of focused open-pit mining to recover more premium emeralds.
As announced on 23 December 2024, alongside other cost cutting measures, Kagem suspended all mining from 1 January 2025 to focus on processing ore from Kagem’s significant ore stockpile utilising the upgraded processing plant.
Emerald production from the processing plant in 2025 so far, in terms of carats recovered, has been in-line with the Company’s expectations, producing a lower proportion of higher-quality or premium emeralds than direct open-pit mining methods.
Kagem’s recent auction results, including the encouraging commercial-quality auction results released on 30 April 2025, has increased management confidence in the current emerald market and the decision has therefore been taken to recommence mining of two key production points in the Chama pit, with minimal waste mining, to recover premium emeralds for Kagem’s future higher-quality auctions. The decision to recommence full scale mining will continue to be assessed as market conditions develop.
A massive 11,000-carat rough ruby has been recovered in the famed gem-rich region of Mogok, Myanmar, according to recent state media reports.
Weighing in at 2.2 kg (4 lbs 14 oz), the newly discovered stone is roughly half the size of the legendary 21,450-carat rough gem found in the same region back in 1996. However, experts and state officials report that this new find boasts vastly superior color, luster, and transparency.
Mogok rubies, sourced from the “Valley of Rubies” in Myanmar (Burma), are legendary for their unrivaled vivid color and supreme clarity. They are famous worldwide for their “pigeon blood” red hue, which is caused by trace elements and microscopic silk particles that scatter light and give the gem a glowing, velvety softness.
Key Details of the Discovery:
- Physical Properties: The giant gem exhibits a striking purplish-red color with yellowish undertones, excellent vitreous luster, and moderate transparency. It remains entirely in its natural, untreated state.
- Geopolitical Context: Myanmar supplies roughly 90% of the world’s rubies. However, the nation has been embroiled in a devastating civil war since a 2021 military coup—a conflict that has claimed approximately 90,000 lives and displaced over 3.5 million people.
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National News21 hours agoP N Gadgil Jewellers Reports Record FY26 Revenue Of ₹ 1,07,391 Million; Revenue Surges 39.6% YoY And PAT Grows 87.8%
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National News18 hours agoKimberley Process Intersessional 2026 Concludes In Mumbai Under India’s Chairship With Focus On Future Of Natural Diamond Sector
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International News39 seconds agoMassive 11,000-Carat Ruby Uncovered In Myanmar
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