Saima Hashim
Pakistan, a land of breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures, holds yet another distinction—its wealth in minerals and gemstones. Ranked as the 5th largest country in the world for mineral and gem resources, Pakistan boasts a treasure trove of untapped potential. From the emerald mines of Swat to the ruby-rich terrains of Hunza and the tourmaline reserves in Chitral, these precious assets hold immense promise for economic growth, employment, and sustainable development.
Recently, I had the privilege of attending a stakeholders’ engagement session on the establishment of Gem City, an initiative aimed at promoting gemstone exports from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This session, organized with the support of USAID-ERDA, APCEA, AID, and key government agencies, brought together experts from diverse sectors to share their views. As an invited participant, I had the opportunity to witness how such collaborative efforts could reshape the gemstone industry in Pakistan.
Pakistan’s geological landscape is uniquely suited for such riches, shaped by the tectonic collision of the Indian plate with the Eurasian plate. The merging of three great mountain ranges—the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush—has created a geological haven for precious minerals. The magma movements and fault lines in these regions have contributed to the formation of high-quality gemstones, placing Pakistan in a position of unparalleled geological advantage.
Neighboring countries like India and Thailand have successfully leveraged their gemstone industries to boost their economies. Thailand has become a global hub for gemstone cutting and trading, earning billions annually through exports. India, with its well-established certification labs, cutting and polishing facilities, and organized marketing strategies, has also secured a strong foothold in international markets. Yet, despite Pakistan’s superior geological resources, it lags behind these countries due to several challenges.
One of the biggest hurdles is the lack of certification labs, which affects the credibility and marketability of Pakistani gemstones in international markets. Without proper certification, buyers often undervalue these gems, leading to significant economic losses. The absence of advanced cutting and polishing facilities further exacerbates the issue, as raw stones are often exported at minimal value instead of being processed locally for higher profits. Outdated extraction machinery results in substantial wastage during mining, leaving untapped potential buried in the ground.
Another pressing challenge is the inability to facilitate international payments for online sales, which limits the scope of global marketing for Pakistani gemstones. Coupled with limited expertise in modern marketing practices, these issues prevent Pakistan from fully realizing its potential in the global gemstone market.
However, Pakistan has the capacity to outperform India and Thailand by addressing these gaps. Establishing modern certification labs and training centers for cutting and polishing would enhance the value of its gemstones while ensuring compliance with international standards. Investing in advanced extraction machinery and promoting eco-friendly mining practices could minimize wastage and environmental degradation. Furthermore, facilitating international payments and developing digital platforms would allow Pakistani gemstones to reach a broader audience.
The proposed Gem City in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could serve as a model for sustainable and organized gemstone development. Such a hub would not only promote ethical and eco-friendly practices but also provide opportunities for local communities, particularly women, to contribute to the industry through skill development and entrepreneurship.
Pakistan’s mineral and gem resources are more than just natural riches—they are a symbol of the nation’s potential to balance economic growth with environmental responsibility. With strategic investments and a clear vision, Pakistan can transform its gemstone industry into a global leader, creating economic prosperity while preserving its natural treasures. It is time to polish these hidden gems, ensuring that their brilliance reflects both economic success and sustainable development.
The author is an environmental specialist and academic focused on sustainable development.
