Gemfields has expanded the offering at its upcoming ruby auction, which includes gems from the new area of its mine as well as a 36-carat stone.
Lower iron content lends some of the goods from the new section of the Montepuez mine in Mozambique a slightly lighter color and stronger fluorescence, leading to a wider variety of tones and hues, the miner said recently.
“It is exciting to see the evolving variety of rubies being recovered by Montepuez ruby mining,” said Andrew Banks, Gemfields’ managing director for product and sales. “I am particularly eager to see how a single fine-quality ruby weighing 36 carats will perform at our auction. I believe this ruby will be strongly contested by discerning clients who recognize the rarity and significance of such a gemstone, given both its size and quality.”
Gemfields is about to complete construction on its new plant, which it said would process 400 tonnes of ore per hour. This will triple the mine’s throughput capacity, allowing it to offer a larger supply of goods to the market, it added.
The company also owns the Kagem emerald mine in Zambia, a partnership with the local government through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), as well as three ruby development assets in Mozambique: Megaruma, Campos De Joia and Eastern Ruby Mining. Additionally, the group includes the iconic brand Fabergé.
Image: The 36-carat ruby. (Gemfields)
