GemLog

Gem Trails of Pakistan

Stories from the gem and mineral trade in Pakistan.

April 14, 2026

Origin Gems®

Swat Gems Merchants Association (SGMA): Protecting & Representing Swat’s Emerald Trade

The Swat Gems Merchants Association (SGMA) is a regulatory body of the local emerald trade in Mingora, Swat, though it remains relatively unknown o...

charbagh emerald Emeralds

Mr Khalid Khan, the leaseholder of the emerald mines located in Fizagat, Mingora, Swat Valley, Pakistan. This photograph is from late 2024, when our team interviewed Mr Khalid.

April 11, 2026

Origin Gems®

The Man Who Revived the Swat Emerald Mines: Mingora, Swat Valley

Mr Khalid Khan was the driving force behind the revival of the emerald mines located in Fizagat, Mingora, Swat Valley, Pakistan. He transformed a o...

emerald Emeralds expensive gemstones

October 27, 2025

Origin Gems®

Swat Emerald's: Exclusive Mine Access

This exclusive field account presents a brief overview of the emerald deposits of the Swat Valley, Pakistan, based on direct, on-ground documentati...

blog charbagh emerald

In Search of Pink Fire: A Journey to the Katlang Pink Topaz Mines

August 05, 2025

Origin Gems®

In Search of Pink Fire: A Journey to the Katlang Pink Topaz Mines

Field expedition account to Ghundao Hill in Katlang, Mardan District, one of the only places on Earth where naturally stable, vivid pink topaz is f...

expensive gemstones field gemology fine art minerals

A Visit to the "King of Kashmir" Aquamarine Mine: A Brief Field Report

July 29, 2025

Origin Gems®

A Visit to the "King of Kashmir" Aquamarine Mine: A Brief Field Report

The “King of Kashmir” is a prized aquamarine from Goand, Shigar, Gilgit Baltistan. Bought in 2019 for ~7 crore PKR, it reflects complex mining wher...

aquamarine blog braldu river

Latest Updates

Stay updated with our latest news and insights.

July 27, 2025

Origin Gems®

Welcome to the Gem Log: Stories from the Source

Gem Log: Stories from the Source – Discover untold stories from Pakistan’s legendary gem mines. From Swat emeralds to Hunza rubies, Khewra pink sal...

afghanistan batakundi besal