Chumar Bakhoor

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Nagar District, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan

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Key Information

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  • Chumar Bakhoor is located in the Sumayar Valley, Nagar District, Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, at about 5,520 meters elevation, near the village of Nagar.

  • It is known for minerals like aquamarine, fluorapatite, and fluorite, found in granitic pegmatites.

  • Mining began in the mid-1980s, discovered by a local hunter, and operates seasonally from July to October.

  • The area has a rich cultural heritage with diverse Muslim sects, famous for apricots and traditional crafts.

  • The climate is cold and harsh, with significant winter snowfall, and the ecology features high-altitude, sparse vegetation.

Geographic Location

Chumar Bakhoor sits in the Sumayar Valley of the Nagar District, part of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, at an elevation of approximately 5,520 meters. This remote area is near the village of Nagar, accessible only during the summer months due to its high altitude and harsh winters. It’s nestled in the Karakoram mountain range, known for its majestic peaks and glaciers, making it a challenging yet rewarding destination for mineral enthusiasts.

Minerals Produced

The locality is renowned for its granitic pegmatites, which yield a variety of gemstones. Key minerals include:

  • Aquamarine: Prized for its blue to greenish-blue hues and clarity.
  • Fluorapatite: Often found alongside aquamarine, adding to the area’s mineral diversity.
  • Fluorite: Known for its vibrant colors, it’s a favorite among collectors.

These minerals are embedded in a coarse muscovite matrix, creating stunning specimens highly sought after in the mineral collecting community.

Mining History

Mining at Chumar Bakhoor began in the mid-1980s after a local hunter, Muhammad Shah, discovered aquamarine crystals in 1984. Initially kept secret, the find became public by 1987, leading to hundreds of miners working the area. The mining is seasonal, from July to October, due to the high altitude, and is organized by a miners’ association in the village of Sumayar, with groups working together to extract the gemstones.

Local Culture and Characteristics

Gilgit-Baltistan, including Nagar District, is a cultural mosaic with a predominantly Muslim population, featuring a mix of different sects. The region is known for its hospitality and vibrant festivals like the Shandoor Polo Festival. Local specialties include delicious apricots and traditional handicrafts such as wood carving and embroidery, reflecting its history as a former princely state.

Climate and Ecology

The climate at Chumar Bakhoor is cold and harsh, with significant snowfall in winter, typical of high-altitude regions. The ecology features sparse vegetation adapted to extreme conditions, with unique wildlife suited to this mountainous environment, offering a glimpse into the resilience of nature at such heights.

Citations

Wikipedia