Gemfields has announced the results of its most recent auction of rough emeralds. rough emeralds, held between August 25 and September 11. held between August 25 and September 11. The event, which took place in Bangkok through private viewings followed by closed digital bidding, generated proceeds of US$32 million.
Strong demand and prominence of Imboo emeralds
38 lots were offered from the Kagem Kagem mine in Zambia mine in Zambia, all of which were purchased. The average price achieved was $160.78 per carat, reflecting a renewed market appetite for select emeralds. This figure represents a substantial improvement over previous auctions, which had been marked by uncertainty.
One of the main attractions was an exceptional gemstone: the 11,685-carat Imboo emerald. This stone, whose name means “buffalo”, becomes the largest ever recorded by the Kagem mining operation. Although its final value was not disclosed, its sale is estimated at around $1.9 million.
A rebound after difficult months
The Kagem mine, 75% operated by Gemfields and 25% by the Zambia Industrial Development Corporation, had temporarily suspended operations in January 2025 due to oversupply and market weakness. However, following a positive auction in April, two mining fronts were reactivated in May.
All revenues earned will be repatriated to Zambia, and appropriate royalties will be paid to the government on the total sales value. This reinforces the company’s model, which aims for responsible and transparent marketing of colored stoneswith tangible benefits for local economies.
Although some trade tensions and mixed signals persist in the global market, the success of this auction demonstrates a sustained recovery in demand for premium emeralds. Gemfields thus reaffirms its leadership in the structured supply of gemstones, relying on efficient auction platforms and strategic management of its production.
Source and photo: Gemfields
