On September 23, colored gemstone supplier Gemfields released an assessment report on the Kagem emerald mine in Zambia. The data show that the Kagem mine holds emerald and beryl reserves totaling 1.8 billion carats, with an average of 281 carats of gemstones per ton of ore—a figure significantly higher than previously anticipated.

　　According to the assessment results from third-party consulting firm SRK, the Kagem emerald mine has proven mineral resources of 290 million carats, indicated mineral resources of 1.33 billion carats, and inferred mineral resources of 181 million carats.

　　This mine is expected to produce 1.1 billion carats of emeralds and beryls over a 25-year period. Over its entire designed lifespan, the Kagem mine is projected to average annual gemstone production of 44.7 million carats.

　　The Kagem mine is located in the heart of the Kafubu emerald mining district in the Copperbelt Province of northern Zambia. It covers an area of approximately 41 square kilometers and primarily produces gem-quality emeralds and beryls. The mine accounts for 20% of the world’s annual emerald supply. Since 2007, Gemfields has been developing the Kagem mine. Currently, the mine processes 90,000 tons of ore annually, and by 2018, its ore-processing capacity is expected to increase to 180,000 tons per year.