GIA creates free gem guide for artisanal miners
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The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has produced a gem guide which they will give to artisanal miners free of charge.
Working in association with NGO Pact and women’s mining communities in Tanzania, the guide offers basic gemmological and market knowledge in gem-producing areas.
It has been launched as a pilot scheme, with the booklet being handed out to 45 women miners in Tanga, Tanzania. The illustrated pamphlet is available in English and Tanzanian Swahili.
Susan Jacques, CEO of GIA, said: “This project is at the very core of GIA’s mission. We are moving practical gemstone education as far up the supply chain as possible, to people who can benefit tremendously from greater understanding of the beautiful gems they bring to market.”
The pilot scheme costs approximately $120k (£96k) and was financed by the GIA endowment fund. The training will be extended to other miners in East Africa later this year, and will remain free.
The booklet was made with the aim of sharing gem information and skills throughout the supply chain.
