Full List of Precious Stones in Nigeria & Uses

Nigeria is a country with a rich history of mineral resources, including precious stones that have been used for centuries to create stunning jewelry pieces. These gemstones are found in various states across the country and have been used for different purposes, including adornment, healing, and spiritual practices. In this article, we will explore the full list of precious stones found in Nigeria and their uses.

From diamonds to sapphires, Nigeria is home to a wide range of precious stones that are highly sought after by jewelry enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Each gemstone has unique properties and characteristics that make it valuable and desirable. Some of these precious stones are found in large quantities in specific states, while others are rare and only found in small quantities.

Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast or just curious about the different types of precious stones found in Nigeria, this article will provide you with a comprehensive list of these gems and their uses. From the history of these stones to their current market value, you will learn everything you need to know about the precious stones found in Nigeria.

OVERVIEW OF PRECIOUS STONES IN NIGERIA

Nigeria is a country rich in natural resources, including precious stones. These stones are highly valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability. They are used in various industries, including jewelry, construction, and technology. In this section, we will explore the different types of precious stones found in Nigeria and their uses.

TYPES OF PRECIOUS STONES IN NIGERIA

Nigeria has a diverse range of precious stones, including:

• Sapphire
• Emerald
• Tourmaline
• Aquamarine
• Mali Garnet
• Sapphires
• Ora Garnet
• Topaz
• Garnet
• Amethyst
• Zircon
• Diamonds
• Ruby
• Opal
• Tourmalines
• Jenta Garnet
• Akwanga Garnet
• Tanzanite
• Black Opal
• Red Beryl
• Musgravite
• Alexandrite
• Pink Diamond
• Jadeite
• Blue Diamond
• Goshenite
• Semi-Precious Stones

Each of these stones has unique properties and uses. For example, diamonds are known for their hardness and are used in cutting tools and abrasives. Rubies are prized for their red color and are often used in jewelry. Opals are known for their iridescence and are used in decorative items.

Some of these stones have cultural significance as well. For example, birthstones are precious stones associated with a person’s birth month. In Nigeria, tourmalines are considered to be healing stones and are used in traditional medicine.

The mining and trading of precious stones in Nigeria is regulated by the government to prevent illegal mining and smuggling. The government also encourages local processing of these stones to add value and create jobs.

In conclusion, Nigeria has a rich variety of precious stones that are highly valued for their beauty and usefulness. These stones have a significant impact on the economy and culture of the country.

MINING OF PRECIOUS STONES IN NIGERIA

MINING IN NORTH NIGERIA

The northern part of Nigeria is known for its abundance of precious stones such as topaz, emerald, amethyst, sapphire, and aquamarine. The mining of these stones is mainly carried out in Jos, Kaduna, Bauchi, and Sokoto states. The Jos plateau is particularly rich in topaz and other minerals, and it has been a hub for mining activities for decades.

Miners in the north use various methods to extract these precious stones from the earth. Some use traditional methods such as panning, while others use modern techniques such as drilling and blasting. The mining industry in the north is largely dominated by small-scale miners who operate informally.

MINING IN SOUTH NIGERIA

The southern part of Nigeria is also rich in precious stones such as tourmaline, garnet, and emerald. The states of Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Taraba, and Kogi have deposits of these precious stones. The mining of these stones is mainly carried out by small-scale miners who operate informally.

In recent years, the government has been making efforts to formalize the mining sector in the south. This has led to the establishment of mining cooperatives and the provision of training and equipment to small-scale miners. The government has also been working to attract foreign investors to the sector.

Overall, the mining of precious stones in Nigeria has the potential to contribute significantly to the country’s economy. However, the sector is largely informal and dominated by small-scale miners. The government needs to do more to formalize the sector and attract investment.

THE USES OF PRECIOUS STONES IN NIGERIA

Below are the uses of these gemstones found in Nigeria:

JEWELRY MAKING

Precious stones have been used for centuries in jewelry making. In Nigeria, precious stones such as diamonds, emeralds, and rubies are popular choices for engagement rings and other types of fine jewelry. These stones are valued for their beauty, rarity, and durability, making them ideal for use in high-end jewelry pieces.

Other precious stones, such as sapphires and amethysts, are also used in jewelry making in Nigeria. These stones are often used to create unique and eye-catching pieces that are sure to turn heads.

HEALING PROPERTIES

Many people in Nigeria believe that precious stones have healing properties. For example, amethyst is said to help with insomnia and stress, while emerald is believed to improve vision and promote good health.

Other stones, such as sapphire and ruby, are said to have a calming effect and can help to reduce anxiety and promote emotional well-being.

ASTROLOGICAL PROPERTIES

In addition to their healing properties, many precious stones are also believed to have astrological properties. For example, sapphire is said to be the birthstone for those born in September, while emerald is associated with the month of May.

Other stones, such as ruby and diamond, are said to be associated with particular zodiac signs and can be worn to bring good luck and positive energy.

Overall, precious stones are highly valued in Nigeria for their many uses and properties. Whether used in jewelry making, for their healing or astrological properties, or simply for their beauty and rarity, these stones are an important part of Nigerian culture and tradition.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN PRECIOUS STONES FOUND IN NIGERIA

Investing in precious stones is a lucrative business opportunity in Nigeria. The country is rich in various types of precious stones, which can be mined and sold to both local and international markets. The following are some of the investment opportunities available in the precious stone industry in Nigeria:

• Investing in mining companies: There are several mining companies in Nigeria that focus on the exploration and extraction of precious stones. Investing in these companies can provide a good return on investment, especially if the company has a proven track record of success.
• Buying and selling precious stones: Another investment opportunity is to buy and sell precious stones. This can be done by purchasing stones from local miners and selling them to local and international buyers. This can be a profitable venture, especially if the investor has a good understanding of the market.
• Investing in gemstone cutting and polishing: Nigeria has a growing market for cut and polished precious stones. Investing in a business that specializes in cutting and polishing these stones can be a good investment opportunity.

Foreign investors can take advantage of Nigeria’s large and growing market for precious stones. According to the Nigerian Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, the country has the potential to earn millions of dollars in foreign income from the export of precious stones.

However, investors should be aware of the risks associated with investing in the precious stone industry in Nigeria. These risks include political instability, security concerns, and the lack of infrastructure in some areas.

TRADING OF PRECIOUS STONES IN NIGERIA

Trading of precious stones is a lucrative business in Nigeria, and it has been in existence for centuries. The country has a vast array of precious stones, including diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, topaz, and garnets, among others. These stones are found in various parts of the country, including the northern, western, and eastern regions.

The trading of precious stones in Nigeria is done through various channels. Some traders sell directly to customers, while others sell to exporters who then sell to international buyers. Traders can also sell rough gemstones to companies that specialize in cutting and polishing the stones for use in jewelry and other accessories.

There are many exporters of precious stones in Nigeria, and they are always on the lookout for high-quality stones to sell to international buyers. These exporters have established relationships with buyers in different countries, including the United States, China, and India, among others.

Support for the trading of precious stones in Nigeria comes from various organizations, including the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC). The NEPC provides support and guidance to exporters of precious stones and other commodities, including oil and chemical products.

In addition to trading in precious stones, some traders also specialize in making beads and other accessories using the stones. These traders use their knowledge of the properties of the different stones to create unique and beautiful designs that are highly sought after by customers.

Overall, the trading of precious stones in Nigeria is a thriving industry that provides employment opportunities for many people. With the country’s vast array of precious stones and supportive organizations like the NEPC, the industry is poised for continued growth in the coming years.