ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has significant deposits of jade. However, the jade is exported in raw or unfinished form in the absence of representation, marketing and value addition, depriving the country of sizable foreign exchange. Translucent white or slight yellowish jade known as mutton fat jade or emperor’s stone is worth its weight in gold.
In a discussion with WealthPK about jade, Research Associate in charge of Gemmology Laboratory at the National Centre of Excellence (Geology) of the University of Peshawar Shakir Ullah Orakzai said, “Jade is a collective term representing two different types of stones – Jadeite and Nephrite. It is found in the border areas of Mohmand and Bajaur. Deposits found there are of extensive quality and can be enough for more than 25 years but these are yet to be quantified to say something exactly about them.’’
Shakir said in some countries, especially in China, jade is considered as a sacred gem stone or a religious element.
It is used to carve images, prepare jewellery and fashion other articles of decoration or use. Its boulders from 2 to 3kg or above are exported to other countries without value addition. In raw form, it is sold only at the rate of Rs30,000 per kg or little bit more. However, if sold after value addition or turned into artefacts, jewellery, or pots, it can bring handsome money to the country’s coffers.’’
Same in the way, he continued, processed or cleaned lumps in natural or shaped form could be worth Rs400,000 or more. It is also a point to be considered that gem stones are an item of luxury and not need. So, their price mostly depends on the aesthetic sense, fondness or historic value. But to increase the value, good lapidary is the key.
Shakir said sophisticated equipment was used to add value to gem stones. Worn-out or insufficient modern tool kits or equipment is the basic reason why Pakistan lags behind other countries. He said Pakistan had yet to introduce a proper gem stone policy which was the need of the hour. Gemstones found in Pakistan are matchless in beauty but lack of presentation, marketing and value addition, depriving the country of a large profit share in the world market.
Miner and gemmologist Imran Babar said, “Jade is of two types – Jadeite (spotted) and Nephrite (clear). It is basically a form of silica. In Pakistan, Nephrite is mostly found in green, yellowish, opaque white, yellowish white and light bluish forms. Nephrite deposits in Pakistan are of best quality, especially the mutton fat.”
“In my opinion, Pakistan must focus on training its miners and equipping them with sophisticated technology. This way, precious deposits will help the country earn sizable profits for its coffers and the well-being of people. Proper formation of mineral industry will bring best socio-economic changes in the country. It is true that Pakistan can reap good economic benefits from jade but it will be possible only if it is exported after value addition,’’ he said.
Imran Babar said although China itself kept sufficient deposits of jade, the high demand there made enough room for the value-added jade products of Pakistan.
