As the Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA), we are proud to be part of an industry that connects the wonders of nature with the art and desires of people worldwide. Behind the beauty of each gemstone you possess lies a long journey that begins in hidden corners of the globe.
This article will take you on a journey to explore the world's major gem mines, follow the path of exquisite gems from mine to market, and understand the importance of ethics and environmental considerations, so we can collectively promote sustainability in our industry.
Each type of gemstone is born from unique geological conditions, making the sources of high-quality and rare colored gems limited to only a few locations in the world.
Known as the "Land of Rubies," Mogok is the source of the world's finest quality rubies, especially the famed "Pigeon's Blood" color. Mogok is also a source of equally beautiful vibrant red spinels, as well as sapphires and many other gemstones. Mining in Mogok often remains traditional, passed down through generations.
Colombian emeralds are recognized for having the most beautiful and vivid colors in the world, with major mines like Muzo and Chivor. The history of emerald mining in Colombia is long and intense, filled with stories of conflict that led to the "Green Wars" of the past.
At the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro lies the discovery site of Tanzanite, a stunning blue-violet gemstone found only in this one location in the world. This exclusivity makes Tanzanite one of the rarest and most sought-after gemstones by collectors worldwide.
The Australian continent is the world's largest and most significant source of opals, especially the Black Opal from Lightning Ridge, which features a uniquely beautiful and distinct play-of-color.
Known as the "Gem Island," Sri Lanka is a source of sapphires in a wide variety of colors, especially the highly popular Ceylon Blue Sapphire with its vibrant blue hue. The city of Ratnapura is the country's main center for gem mining and trade.
In the past, Thailand was a major source of world-renowned Siam Rubies and Sapphires, particularly from the provinces of Chanthaburi and Trat. Although these natural resources have diminished, Thailand has transformed its role to become the world's most important center for the trade and quality enhancement of colored gemstones, attracting gems from every corner of the globe.
While gem mining creates jobs and brings income to local communities, the industry is increasingly focusing on its social and environmental impact. The concept of "Ethical Sourcing" has therefore become critically important. Today's consumers demand assurance that the gemstones they purchase:
Come from transparent and traceable sources.
Are not used to fund conflict (Conflict-Free).
Are mined with consideration for the environment and the well-being of laborers.
The journey of a gemstone from its source to a beautiful piece of jewelry involves several stages and experts.
From the Mine to Local Dealers: Rough gemstones are collected and sold to local gem traders.
To the Trading and Cutting Hub: Rough gems from around the world are sent to Thailand for sorting and "heating" or quality enhancement. This heat treatment is a form of local wisdom practiced by Thai artisans, recognized internationally for its ability to bring out the stone's most beautiful color.
Gem Cutting (Faceting): Skilled gem cutters shape and create perfect facets to allow the gemstone to sparkle to its fullest potential.
Design and Setting: The finished gemstone is then incorporated into a jewelry design and set by goldsmiths and designers.
To Retailers and Consumers: The finished jewelry is sent to retail stores for consumers to select and cherish.
The global gem industry is entering a new era of transparency. Technologies like Blockchain are being introduced to create traceability systems, allowing the journey of a gemstone to be tracked from the mine to the consumer. This builds confidence in the gem's origin and authenticity.
The Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA) is committed to promoting Thailand as a global center for gems and jewelry, renowned not only for its quality and craftsmanship but also for its emphasis on ethics and sustainability. Our goal is to ensure that this industry continues to create beauty and value for the world in a sustainable manner.
CEO David Bonaparte was among delegates who met with Trump’s senior counselor for trade and manufacturing.
GJPCT and TGJTA hosted the 'Thailand - Sri Lanka Colorstone Night,' uniting Thai-Sri Lankan entrepreneurs to promote colored gemstone trade, innovation, and legal knowledge for a sustainable industry.
นายชมพล พรจินดารักษ์ นายกสมาคม TGJTA รับเชิญเป็นอาจารย์พิเศษ ณ วิทยาลัยอุตสาหกรรมสร้างสรรค์ มศว แบ่งปันความรู้ประวัติศาสตร์และธุรกิจอัญมณี พร้อมแนะแนวอาชีพ สร้างแรงบันดาลใจให้นิสิตรุ่นใหม่