Gemfields Group is set to restart selective open-pit mining at its Kagem emerald mine in Zambia, aiming to boost the recovery of high-grade stones.
The operation—75% owned by Gemfields and 25% held by Zambia's state-owned Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)—suspended mining activities in January to focus on processing existing ore stockpiles.
While the upgraded processing plant has maintained expected production volumes in carat terms this year, the company notes these stockpile-derived emeralds have yielded a lower proportion of premium-quality material compared to direct pit mining.
The decision to resume mining at two key zones in the Chama pit follows encouraging results from recent emerald auctions, including last month's commercial-quality sale.
The restart will employ precision extraction methods to minimise waste while targeting high-value stones for future premium auctions.
Gemfields emphasised that any further expansion of mining operations will remain contingent on ongoing market conditions.
The strategic shift allows the company to capitalise on strong demand for quality emeralds while maintaining operational flexibility.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
