0.85CT Natural Swat Emerald

Weight:(0.85)CT

Stone:(Emerald)

Origin:(Pakistan Swat)

[](https://www.folkmarketgems.com/products/10ct-loose-emeralds-swat)

Swat emeralds, locally known as "Zamurd," are renowned for their exceptional quality and vibrant green hue. These precious gemstones are primarily mined in the Fizagat region near Mingora, Swat Valley, Pakistan. The Fizagat mine is estimated to contain approximately 70 million carats of emerald deposits .([Swat][1])

### Characteristics

Swat emeralds are celebrated for their rich, deep green color, comparable to that of Colombian emeralds. They often exhibit excellent transparency and are typically found in hexagonal crystal formations. While inclusions are common, many Swat emeralds possess remarkable clarity and brilliance .([Business Bootstrap 5 Template][2], [Swat][1])

### Historical Significance

Emeralds have been mined in the Swat Valley for over 2,500 years. Stones from this region have been discovered among ancient Roman ruins in present-day France. The mines were rediscovered in 1958 during the era of Wali-e-Swat, Prince Miangul Jahanzeb. Subsequently, the mines have been under various forms of ownership, including the Government of Pakistan and local contractors .([Swat][1], [sustainablegemstones.org][3])

### Market and Trade

Swat emeralds are highly valued in international markets, particularly in the United States and Japan, which together account for 75% of global gemstone-quality emerald purchases . However, the local industry faces challenges such as a lack of skilled labor, modern extraction techniques, and facilities for cutting and polishing. As a result, rough stones are often sold to traders in cities like Peshawar, Dubai, and Thailand .([Swat][1], [Dawn][4])

### Ethical Considerations

The Swat emerald industry has faced ethical concerns, particularly during periods of conflict. During the Taliban's control of Swat, illegal mining and trade of emeralds were reported, with revenues potentially fueling militant activities . In recent years, efforts have been made to promote responsible sourcing and sustainable practices within the industry .([sustainablegemstones.org][3], [Gypsy Tours][5])

### Current Status

Today, the Fizagat mine remains operational, employing over 1,000 miners. Local residents also engage in prospecting by sifting through mine debris along the Swat River, hoping to find emerald fragments. While some individuals have found success, many face challenges due to the competitive nature of this informal industry .([Dawn][4], [Arab News PK][6])

Swat emeralds continue to be a symbol of Pakistan's rich natural heritage and hold significant cultural and economic value.([jewelfields.com][7])

[1]: https://www.visitswatvalley.com/swat-emerald/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Swat Emerald - Pakistan's High Quality Emerald - Swat"

[2]: https://ggip.com.pk/blog/emeralds-the-green-treasure-of-pakistan?utm_source=chatgpt.com "GGIP"

[3]: https://www.sustainablegemstones.org/blog/pakistans-swat-valley-emeralds-consigned-to-oblivion?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Pakistan's Swat Valley Emeralds - Consigned to Oblivion — Gemstones and Sustainable Development Knowledge Hub"

[4]: https://www.dawn.com/news/1122968?utm_source=chatgpt.com "The neglected emerald mines of Swat - Pakistan - DAWN.COM"

[5]: https://gypsytours.pk/travel/swat-emerald-tour-pakistan/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Swat Emerald: Exploring the Splendor of Swat Emerald Mines and Market in 2024 - Gypsy Traces and Tours"

[6]: https://www.arabnews.pk/node/2599241/pakistan?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Emerald dreams: Swat residents sift through mine waste in search of green luck | Arab News PK"

[7]: https://jewelfields.com/article/Swat-Valley-Emeralds?utm_source=chatgpt.com "SWAT VALLEY EMERALD GEMSTONE: Certified swat origin emeralds for sale"