Mingora emerald deposit

Mindat.org

Swat District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan

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Key Information

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  • The Mingora emerald deposit is in Swat Valley, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, likely mined since ancient times.

  • It produces high-quality emeralds, with minor minerals like quartz and talc.

  • The deposit is part of an ophiolitic melange, formed through complex tectonic processes.

  • Modern mining started in 1958, with periods of closure due to local conflicts, but it seems likely the mine is still active.

  • Swat Valley has a rich Pashtun culture and temperate climate, with diverse ecology.

Geographic Location

The Mingora emerald deposit is located north of Mingora town in the Swat Valley, part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province in northwestern Pakistan. This valley, nestled in the Hindu Kush mountains, is known for its scenic beauty, with the Swat River and nearby valleys like Miandam and Kalam. It’s close to historical sites like Takht-i-Bahi (Mindat), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a fascinating area for mineral enthusiasts.

Minerals Produced

The deposit is renowned for its emeralds, a variety of beryl with vibrant green hues, and is one of Pakistan’s largest sources. The host rock, talc-carbonate schist, may contain minor minerals like quartz, talc, and magnesite, adding to its geological interest (Mindat).

Geological Structure

Research suggests the deposit is part of an ophiolitic melange, a mix of oceanic crust and mantle rocks thrust onto the continent. Emeralds formed through metasomatic processes, involving fluid interactions in this tectonic setting, making it a complex and scientifically intriguing site (Economic Geology).

Mining History

It seems likely the deposit was mined since ancient times, with modern mining beginning in 1958. Managed by the Gemstone Corporation of Pakistan from 1979 to 1995, it faced closures due to local conflicts but was auctioned to private owners in 2010, suggesting ongoing activity (Dawn News).

Local Culture and Characteristics

Swat Valley has a rich Pashtun culture, with a history of Buddhism, and emerald mining is integral to the local economy. The area’s hospitality and historical sites like Takht-i-Bahi reflect its cultural depth (Wikipedia).

Climate and Ecology

The valley has a temperate climate, with hot summers and cold winters, and a diverse ecology ranging from subtropical to alpine zones, supporting various species (Swat Valley Tourism).

Citations