What are Popular Gemstones in Kashmir Valley of Pakistan?

The Kashmir Valley, situated in the northern region of Pakistan, is well-known for its captivating beauty and also for its rich deposits of gemstones. Owing to their exquisite beauty, the Kashmiri gemstones have fascinated the jewellers and collectors from all over the world. These gemstones exhibit the unique cultural heritage of the Northern areas of Pakistan. Kashmir is best known for its exceptional treasures of sapphires, radiant emeralds and exotic spinels. In short, Kashmir is the home to a diverse variety of gemstones which are highly sought after by the lapidaries worldwide.

This article explores the significance and distinctive characteristics of some of the most popular gemstones found in Kashmir region of Pakistan.

1- Kashmir Sapphire

The Kashmir sapphire is the most famous among the Kashmir gemstones. What makes it so special is its rich history and outstanding quality. These sapphires are considered to be one of the finest gemstones in the world due to their peculiar color and luster.

Color and Quality

Kashmir sapphires have a distinct velvety blue color, which differentiates them from the sapphires found in other parts of the world. These sapphires have a deep, rich blue colour with a hint of  bluish-violet hue. They have velvety or starry appearance due to the fine needle-like rutile inclusions within their substance, which enhances their optical properties. These sapphires have an excellent transparency because they are free of the intense inclusions which are typically present in sapphires obtained from other geographical locations.

History and Rarity

Kashmir sapphires were discovered for the first time in the late 1800s in the Zanskar Valley in Kashmir.  After their discovery, they quickly became highly sought after gemstones, and soon they were one of the most esteemed gemstones in the world. Due to their high global demand, the deposits of Kashmir sapphires were depleted by the early 20th century. This rarity has especially contributed to the worth of Kashmir sapphires in the realm of gemstones.

Emeralds from Swat Valley

Emeralds are also one of the most expensive gemstones found in Pakistan, particularly in the Swat Valley, which is located to the north of the Kashmir region. The world’s most ancient and renowned emerald mines are situated in this region.

Color and Clarity

Swat Valley emeralds are distinguished by their deep green colour, which ranges from a vibrant grass green colour to a more subtle bluish-green hue. Since these emeralds are typically free from heavy inclusions, so they have an excellent transparency. The clarity and rich green colour of Swat emeralds makes them highly demanded in the global gemstone market.

Geological Significance

The deposits of Kashmir emeralds in the Swat Valley are found embedded in ancient rocks. This ancient origin contributes to the exceptional properties of stones. These emeralds belong to the mineral family “beryl” known for its vibrant color and exceptional hardness. The formation of emeralds in this region is the result of complex interaction of tectonic forces, which have reshaped the landscape over millions of years, giving rise to the perfect geological conditions required for the development of these valuable gemstones.

3- Spinels from Gilgit-Baltistan

Spinel is another high quality gemstone found in Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan. Although rubies and sapphires have been prioritized over spinels for decades, yet spinals are being recognized for their unique elegance and exclusivity.

Varieties of Spinel

Spinels from the Kashmir region are available in a wide range of colors, including vibrant reds, blues, pinks and even purples. The red spinels are highly prized for their intense, rich colour, so they are often confused with rubies. However, the unique crystal structure and hardness of spinels makes them different from rubies.

Mining and Rarity

Spinels mined in Kashmir are found in the alluvial deposits of river bottoms and in the highland metamorphic rocks. Mining spinels is quite challenging due to the remote location of this region, which makes them rare and valuable. Gilgit-Baltistan has now become a premier source of high quality spinels, and its stones are increasingly sought after by gem collectors.

4- Topaz from the Kohistan Region

The Kohistan region, situated in the northwest of Pakistan, is famous for its rich deposits of topaz. The topaz found in this area is available in a wide variety of colours ranging from being colourless to pale yellow and pale blue. Although topaz is not as prominent as other gemstones from Kashmir, Kohistan topaz is still esteemed for its transparency, precision and brilliance.

Varieties and Uses

Kohistan topaz is principally used in fine jewelry, particularly in earrings, bracelets and necklaces. The colorless variety is often treated to produce more vibrant shades, while the natural yellow and blue coloured topazes are preferred because of their unique clarity. These topaz gemstones are believed to be highly significant in metaphysical healing, thus they promote mental clarity and emotional balance.

5- Tourmaline from the Neelum Valley

Tourmaline is also a beautiful gemstone found in the Neelum Valley of the Kashmir region. The exquisite varieties of Kashmiri tourmalines are available in a wide range of colours such as green and pink. Multi-coloured varieties of tourmalines are also found in this region.

Color and Appeal

Kashmir tourmaline is valued for its deep, intense colors, which range from dark green to rich pink. The most demanded varieties among tourmalines are the green and watermelon tourmalines, which exhibit an appealing colour contrast of pink and green. Cutting them in the form of cabochons or faceted stones greatly highlights their vibrant colours and makes them more attractive.

Mining and Challenges

Mining of tourmaline in the Neelum Valley can be a difficult task due to the mountainous topography and limited access of people to the mines. Despite these challenges, this region is a great supplier of high quality tourmaline which makes it a valuable source of tourmaline for jewellers and gem enthusiasts.

6- Quartz Varieties

In addition to the previously mentioned gemstones, the Kashmir region is also the origin of a broad spectrum of quartz, particularly rose quartz and amethyst. While these stones are more common than the gemstones discussed above, they are still highly  admired for their versatility and are widely used in designing ornaments and fine jewelry.

Amethyst

Kashmir Amethyst is famous for its dark purple color and is used in jewelry items, especially in the brooches, rings, pendants, and bracelets. The rich purple hue and remarkable transparency of Kashmir Amethyst makes it very popular among gem enthusiasts.

Rose Quartz

The Kashmir Rose quartz is especially cherished for its delicate soft pink colouration. This stone is commonly used in decorative items like carvings, beads, and sculptures due to its elegance. Rose quartz is often believed to promote love and healing which makes it popular among those who are fascinated by the metaphysical properties of stones.

Conclusion

The Kashmir region of Pakistan is a paradise of rare and exquisite gemstones including the highly appreciated Kashmir sapphires to the less famous but equally valuable emeralds, spinels, and tourmalines, the region’s gemstone reserves are extremely diverse and magnificent. These gemstones have played a key role in the betterment of Pakistan’s economy and have also shaped its unique ethnicity. These rare and exceptionally beautiful gemstones are greatly appreciated in the gemstone market round the world. Due to their extraordinary status in global market, these gemstones are being actively mined in the Kashmir region of Pakistan.

For the gemstone collectors, jewellers and gem connoisseurs,  the Kashmir region presents an outstanding variety of unique gemstones with a fascinating blend of history, culture, legacy, and natural beauty.