From Sand to Sparkle: Exploring the Precious Stones of MENA
By Islam Salah
The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has long been associated with some of the world’s most coveted gemstones. From ancient treasures to modern-day jewels, these precious stones tell stories of trade, artistry, and natural wealth.
Let’s explore some of the most iconic gems found in the MENA region, where they come from, and whether these sources are still active today.
Sudan: A Treasure Trove of Gems
Sudan is a hidden treasure in the world of stones, boasting a wealth that ranges from rubies to garnets. These gems are found in various parts of the country, especially in the Red Sea hills and the Nubian Desert. Opals and sapphires, alongside lesser-known stones like amazonite and turquoise from Sudan, have been prized for their deep colors and clarity.
While mining operations still happen, many of these gems are rare and not as commonly sourced because of the region’s challenges in infrastructure and security.
Qatar: The Legacy of Pearls
Even though pearls may not fall under the typical definition of gemstones, Qatar’s pearling history is too important to overlook. Long before oil transformed the economy, pearls were the heart of Qatar’s trade, with men braving the waters to collect these iridescent treasures from the Persian Gulf.
Qatar no longer relies on pearling, but the legacy of the stone is deeply embedded in the nation’s culture. You can find traces of this history throughout Doha—whether in public art like the Pearl Monument at the Dhow Harbour or in the luxurious architecture of The Pearl-Qatar.
Saudi Arabia: A Rich Mining Tradition
Saudi Arabia, known for its vast deserts and oil fields, also hides treasures under the earth, like emeralds, diamonds, and sapphires. These stones are mainly mined in the central desert plains in Riyadh, where the rocky terrain is rich in valuable minerals.
Although Saudi Arabia’s mining industry is focused primarily on oil and gas today, the Kingdom has not forgotten its gemstone past. Emeralds and diamonds remain valuable, but active mining in these areas is limited, and most gemstones are now sourced through international markets.
Egypt: The Land of Peridot and Emeralds
For centuries, peridot from Zabargad Island has been one of Egypt’s most famous exports. Known for its striking green color, peridot has been appreciated since ancient Egyptian times and is often found in the tombs of pharaohs.
Egypt is also home to emeralds from the ancient Cleopatra mines, known for their rich green hue. While the mining of both peridot and emeralds has declined, small-scale mining operations still happen.
Morocco: Quartz and Citrine from the Atlas Mountains
Morocco’s quartz, amethyst, and citrine are some of the region’s best-known gems, often found in the Atlas Mountains and surrounding areas. These stones are known for their clarity and brilliance, with Moroccan citrine and amethyst often used in both traditional and modern jewelry.
Mining for these gems is still active, though largely in the hands of artisanal miners.
The Timeless Treasures of MENA’s Precious Stones
From the golden sands of Egypt to the rugged mountains of Morocco, the MENA region is home to some of the world’s most captivating gemstones.
Whether you’re admiring a stunning piece of jewelry or exploring the ancient mines, the precious stones of the MENA region offer a touch of glamour and a timeless connection to the Earth’s natural wonders.
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