Besti emerald deposit
Lower Chitral District, Chitral District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan
Key Information
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The Besti emerald deposit, located in Lower Chitral District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, was discovered in 2020 and is known for its emeralds, associated with dark mica and white quartz.
It sits at 4,600 meters altitude, about 10 km southwest of Besti village, in a region with a Mediterranean climate at lower elevations and an alpine climate at higher altitudes.
The deposit forms in hydrothermally altered metamorphic rocks near pegmatitic granite intrusions, with mining currently active and subject to local royalty disputes.
Chitral’s culture includes the Kalash tribe and Khowar-speaking people, known for unique traditions, while the area features mountainous terrain and coniferous forests.
Geographic Location
The Besti emerald deposit is nestled in the rugged landscapes of Lower Chitral District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan, approximately 10 km southwest of Besti village at an impressive altitude of 4,600 meters. This region, part of northern Pakistan, borders Afghanistan and is renowned for its mountainous terrain, including the Hindukush range. Nearby, Gilgit-Baltistan offers additional scenic beauty and mineral deposits, making it a fascinating area for exploration.
Minerals Produced
This deposit is primarily celebrated for its emeralds, a variety of beryl colored by chromium, alongside associated minerals like dark mica and white quartz. Discovered in 2020, it promises high-quality specimens that attract mineral enthusiasts.
Geological Structure
The emeralds form in hydrothermally altered metamorphic terrain near pegmatitic granite intrusions, a process where hot fluids from the granite interact with surrounding rocks, precipitating chromium-rich beryl.
Mining History
Mining began following its 2020 discovery, managed by a lease holder, with local reports suggesting significant emerald value, though there are disputes over royalties, reflecting local tensions.
Local Culture and Characteristics
Chitral’s culture is rich, featuring the Kalash tribe with distinct traditions and festivals, and the Khowar-speaking community known for hospitality. The area’s scenic valleys and mountains draw tourists, enhancing its cultural tapestry.
Climate and Ecology
While Chitral generally has a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters, the deposit’s high altitude results in an alpine climate, with cold temperatures and significant snowfall, limiting accessibility to a few months annually. The region boasts coniferous forests and alpine meadows, supporting unique flora and fauna like snow leopards and markhor goats.