Gemfields Group, listed on both the JSE and AIM, has announced that operations at its Kagem emerald mine in Zambia will soon resume focused open-pit mining in a strategic move to boost the recovery of premium-quality emeralds.
Kagem Mining, 75% owned by Gemfields and 25% by the Zambian government through the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), had paused mining activities on January 1 as part of a broader cost-saving strategy. During this period, the company concentrated on processing existing ore stockpiles using its recently upgraded processing plant.
While emerald output so far in 2025 has met expectations in terms of volume, the proportion of top-tier, high-value stones has been lower than what is typically recovered through direct mining methods. This has prompted the decision to restart open-pit operations—specifically targeting two high-yield zones within the Chama pit.
Recent auction results, particularly from the commercial-quality sales held last month, have bolstered management’s confidence in market demand for emeralds. As a result, the company is moving forward with a carefully planned restart of mining aimed at replenishing its inventory of premium stones for upcoming high-quality auctions.
The restart will involve minimal waste mining and will remain under regular review, with Gemfields indicating that any decision to scale up to full production will depend on how market dynamics evolve in the coming months.
This strategic pivot signals Gemfields’ renewed commitment to maintaining its leading position in the global emerald market while reinforcing the value of Zambia’s gemstone sector.
